Dan arrived on time,he was friendly,helpful and professional. He left our property clean and tidy.
At A.M Electrics Devon Ltd, we’ve seen a surge of customers in Newton Abbot, Exeter, Torbay and across Devon asking us to install electrical products they’ve spotted on TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms.
These gadgets often look clever and affordable but when it comes to your home’s electrics, what looks good online can be extremely dangerous in real life.
As a NAPIT-registered electrician in Devon, I’ve been called to homes where people bought plug-in devices or “quick fix” gadgets that are poorly made, not compliant with UK wiring regulations (BS7671), or simply unsafe. From cheap “energy saver” plugs to DIY
extension cubes, they might seem harmless but they could put your family, property, and insurance at risk.
Why TikTok Electrical Gadgets Are Dangerous
- Not UK Approved: Many are imported with no proper UKCA or CE marking.
- Poor Build Quality: Thin cables, weak insulation, and unsafe connections can easily overheat.
- No RCD Protection: Unlike correctly installed sockets and circuits, these devices don’t provide life-saving protection.
- False Energy Claims: Products that promise to “cut your energy bills” are scams.
They don’t reduce electricity use, they just create hazards.
Local Issues We’re Seeing in Newton Abbot and Exeter
We’ve removed unsafe products in homes across Newton Abbot, Exeter, Torquay, Bovey Tracey and Totnes, including:
- Melted plug-in socket adapters bought online.
- “Energy saver” plugs buzzing and overheating.
- Multi-socket cubes overloaded with heaters, creating a serious fire risk.
These aren’t just inconvenient they’re potentially life-threatening.
Safer Alternatives for Your Home
If you’re tempted by something you’ve seen on TikTok or Amazon, check with a qualified electrician first. We can recommend safe alternatives such as:
- Professionally installed USB sockets.
- Smart home devices installed to UK standards.
- Extra sockets fitted safely instead of using unsafe adapters.
- LED lighting upgrades to save on bills without risk.
- Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) to ensure your wiring is safe.
Stay Safe and Trust a Qualified Electrician
Electricity is not an area for shortcuts. If a product on TikTok looks too good to be true, it usually is. Don’t risk your family’s safety or void your home insurance by using unsafe gadgets.
At A.M Electrics Devon Ltd, we provide safe, professional, and fully compliant installations across Newton Abbot, Exeter, Torbay, Teignbridge and surrounding areas. With over a decade of experience, you can be confident your home is in safe hands.
Contact us today if you have any questions.