The Top 10 Most Common Appliances That Fail PAT Testing

By adminPAT Testing

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) is designed to keep workplaces, rental properties, and public spaces safe by identifying faulty or unsafe electrical equipment. While most appliances pass without issue, there are some repeat offenders that regularly fail PAT tests.

Here are the top 10 most common appliances that fail PAT testing—and the reasons why.

1. Kettles

  • Why they fail: Worn or melted flexes from heat, damaged plugs, and limescale causing internal overheating.
  • Tip: Regularly check the cable near the base, and replace if it shows any signs of heat damage.

2. Extension Leads / Multiway Adaptors

  • Why they fail: Overloaded sockets, poor-quality construction, or damaged casings.
  • Tip: Avoid daisy-chaining extension leads, and always buy from reputable brands.

3. Microwave Ovens

  • Why they fail: Door seals and safety interlocks can become faulty, and insulation resistance sometimes drops.
  • Tip: Wipe down door seals regularly and avoid slamming the door.

4. Toasters

  • Why they fail: Crumbs building up inside can cause short circuits; worn or burnt cables are also common.
  • Tip: Empty crumb trays often and avoid using metal objects inside.

5. Portable Heaters

  • Why they fail: Damaged flexes from being moved around, overheating issues, and loose plugs.
  • Tip: Keep heaters away from water and ensure they’re placed somewhere they won’t be knocked over.

6. Vacuum Cleaners

  • Why they fail: Split or frayed cables from heavy use, loose connections in plugs, and blocked filters causing overheating.
  • Tip: Inspect the cable frequently—especially near the entry point into the vacuum.

7. Lamps & Desk Lights

  • Why they fail: Damaged flexes from being twisted, faulty switches, and worn-out bulb holders.
  • Tip: Replace bulbs carefully and check the flex for pinching or cuts.

8. Chargers & Power Supplies (Phone, Laptop, etc.)

  • Why they fail: Cheap or counterfeit chargers are notorious for poor build quality, while genuine ones often fail from cable wear near the plug.
  • Tip: Always use official or reputable brand chargers and avoid wrapping the cable tightly.

9. Photocopiers & Printers

  • Why they fail: Internal power supplies can deteriorate, and leads often get damaged from being pulled or trapped.
  • Tip: Keep cables untangled and allow equipment to cool when not in use.

10. Fridges & Freezers (Small Office Units)

  • Why they fail: Insulation breakdown, damaged flexes from being pushed against walls, and issues with compressor units.
  • Tip: Position away from walls to prevent cable crushing and clean behind the unit regularly.

Why These Appliances Fail More Often

These appliances tend to fail PAT testing because they’re:

  • Portable or regularly moved (so cables get stressed).
  • Exposed to heat or moisture (like kettles, toasters, and heaters).
  • Heavily used daily (vacuum cleaners, chargers, printers).

PAT testing helps identify these risks before they lead to electric shocks, fires, or costly downtime.

Final Thoughts

If you’re responsible for electrical safety at work, in rented properties, or public venues, it pays to keep an eye on these common offenders. Regular visual checks, combined with scheduled PAT testing, can prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.

👉 Need help with your next PAT test? Reach out to a qualified PAT testing provider near you to keep your equipment safe, compliant, and ready to use.