Crackling sound from fuse box?

jsmoke · 6 Oct 2018 at 09:35

Started a few days ago, particulay bad when I switch(or try and switch) on the kitchen fluorescent lights. Seems to be getting worse also with lights flickering now. Is this something I can fix or a job for a pro, I'm guessing a loose wire in the fuse box panel as if I pushthe on/off switch hard in when lights are flickering then it sorts it out.

Can I pull a fuse out and have a look?

DoneADougalOnSofa · 6 Oct 2018 at 09:41

Crackling usually denotes arcing. Get a sparky out asap would be my advice- my pub was about ten minutes away from burning to the ground a few years ago, inside of distribution board was a black mess of charred plastic. Sparky said we were very lucky to spot it and cut the power when we did.

Seriously, get it looked at by a professional.

jsmoke · 6 Oct 2018 at 10:03

Groan, the joys. Thanks.

b0rn2sk8 · 6 Oct 2018 at 11:48

I would also at least switch off the offending breaker if not just all the power.

a1ex2001 · 7 Oct 2018 at 09:39

I'm normally the first to suggest a bit of DIY but this doesn't seem quite the place to start learning! Turn off the offending circuit and call a pro might just be a loose screw or a dodgy breaker but you don't want a house fire!

NoobCannon · 7 Oct 2018 at 13:19

Can you turn off the mains into the house?

If i could isolate the supply i would definatly do that and have a look inside the “fuse box” (guessing you mean consumer unit) and see if i could see anything.