Tingle or shock from an appliance or tap
A tingle from a tap, an appliance or a metal fitting means current is where it should not be. Stop using it, keep others away and call us the same day.
What to do right now
- Stop using the item and keep others away from it.
- Unplug it, or switch off its circuit at the board if you can do so safely.
- If anyone was shocked, have them checked by a doctor even if they feel fine.
- Do not touch the item again until an electrician has checked it.
It is an emergency if
Anyone is unconscious, burnt, has chest pain or difficulty breathing. Call 000 immediately and do not touch them while they could be live.
For fire, smoke, shock injuries or fallen lines, call 000 first.
Common causes
A faulty appliance
Damaged insulation lets current into the metal case.
Missing or failed earth
A damaged earth connection means faults are not safely carried away.
Moisture and damaged wiring
Water around outdoor fittings, pool equipment and bathrooms can make metal live.
What we do about it
We test earthing and insulation, find the fault and make it safe. We also check your safety switches are working as they should.
Common questions
It was only a small tingle. Do I need to worry?
Yes. A small tingle is a warning of a fault that can deliver a much larger shock under different conditions.
Would a safety switch have stopped this?
A working safety switch cuts power quickly when it detects a leak. If you felt a shock, check that yours works and that you have them on every circuit.