Plug Top Fuses

Plug top fuses are small ceramic cartridge fuses that sit inside a 13A plug or fused spur and protect the appliance flex from overheating if a fault occurs. We stock Deta BS 1362 plug top fuses in 2A, 3A, 5A, 10A and 13A ratings, covering everything from lamps and chargers to kettles and heaters.

Stock up at trade prices with an account, and have fuses ordered by 5pm Monday to Friday delivered on the next working day across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

E/F13 In-Stock

Deta 13 Amp Plug Top Fuse

£0.28 inc. VAT

E/F5 In-Stock

Deta 5 Amp Plug Top Fuse

£0.28 inc. VAT

E/F3 In-Stock

Deta 3 Amp Plug Top Fuse

£0.28 inc. VAT

E/F10 In-Stock

Deta 10 Amp Plug Top Fuse

£0.28 inc. VAT

E/F2 In-Stock

Deta 2 Amp Plug Top Fuse

£0.28 inc. VAT

Choosing the right plug top fuse

A plug fuse protects the flexible cable between the plug and the appliance. The right rating lets the appliance run normally while still blowing quickly enough to protect the flex if something goes wrong.

Common ratings and typical uses

2A - low-power equipment where the manufacturer specifies it, such as some lamps and electronics.
3A - appliances up to roughly 700W, such as table lamps, TVs, computers and small chargers.
5A - some appliances where the manufacturer specifies this rating.
10A - less common, used where specified for mid-range loads.
13A - higher-power appliances above roughly 700W, such as kettles, heaters, irons and washing machines.

Always follow the appliance manufacturer's guidance; the rating on the appliance plate or manual takes priority over general rules of thumb.

Where plug top fuses are fitted

The same BS 1362 fuse is used in rewireable plug tops, moulded plugs and fused connection units (fused spurs). When fitting a new plug, check the flex size suits the fuse rating, using our flexible cable range if a replacement lead is needed.

Safety tips

Unplug the appliance before opening the plug or fuse carrier.
Never replace a fuse with a higher rating, foil or wire.
If a new fuse blows straight away, stop using the appliance and have it checked.
Confirm a suspect fuse with a continuity tester from our testing equipment range.

Ordering from Meteor

Meteor Electrical is a family-run wholesaler with 40+ years in the trade and 5,000+ products in stock. Orders above £30 / €35 ex VAT are delivered free, and you can collect from our Cookstown trade counter with Click & Collect.

FAQ's Ask Your Own Question

What are Plug Top Fuses?: Plug top fuses are used to protect against overload and overcurrent in home appliances. The plug top fuses are available in a variety of amp ratings from 2 to 13 amps.
What rating should a plug be?: A 3 amp or 13 amp fuse is standard on most UK connectors. 3 amp fuses are used in a variety of low-power household items and instruments, including as lamps, televisions, and drills. Washing machines, kettles, and toasters, on the other hand, typically require a 13 amp fuse.
Which fuse do I use in my appliances?: Most residential appliances in the UK can be used with a pre-fitted molded plug. The plugs have either a 3 amp or a 13 amp rated fuse. The plug, along with the appliance's fuse, provides the bare minimum of safety for your equipment/appliance. A faulty fuse, on the other hand, will keep blowing if it is rated wrongly or will fail to safeguard your equipment from melting if it is rated too high.
What does BS 1362 mean on a plug fuse?: BS 1362 is the British Standard for the cartridge fuse links used in 13A plugs and fused connection units across the UK and Ireland. A fuse marked BS 1362 has the correct dimensions and performance for those accessories. Avoid unmarked or non-standard fuses, as they may not operate correctly under fault conditions.
Do fused spurs use the same fuses as plugs?: Yes, fused connection units, often called fused spurs, normally take the same BS 1362 cartridge fuses as 13A plugs. Choose the rating to suit the appliance or circuit the spur feeds, commonly 3A for low-power items and 13A for larger loads. Check the appliance manufacturer's instructions for the correct value.
How do I test whether a plug fuse has blown?: The quickest way is to remove the fuse and test it for continuity with a multimeter or continuity tester. A good fuse shows near-zero resistance, while a blown fuse shows an open circuit. Ceramic fuses do not show visible damage, so swapping in a known-good fuse of the same rating is another simple check.