Is Your Home Hiding a Sticky, Green Problem?

Cable Greening: What It Is & Why You Shouldn't Ignore It

If your home was built before the 1970s, you could have an unseen electrical issue lurking behind your walls- Cable Greening. Many UK homeowners are unaware of this problem until they start noticing a strange green, sticky substance inside their sockets or light switches. It might not seem like a big deal at first, but cable greening can pose serious risks to your home's electrical safety. Here's everything you need to know about it and what you should do if you spot the warning signs.

What is Cable Greening?

Cable greening is a phenomenon that occurs in older electrical wiring, particularly in homes built before the 1970s. It happens when the plastic insulation around electrical cables begins to break down, releasing green, sticky substance as plasticiser migration. This residue is a result of chemical reactions within the aging PVC insulation, and it can spread inside sockets, switches, and junction boxes over time.

Key Signs of Cable Greening:

• Sticky or discoloured cables inside sockets or switches

• Green goo appearing near electrical outlets or light fittings

• Electrical faults such as flickering lights or frequently tripping breakers

If you've noticed any of these signs in your home, it's crucial to act fast before the problem worsens.

Why is Cable Greening a Problem?

Many homeowners assume cable greening is just a harmless side effect of aging wiring. However, this isn't the case. The green substance is actually corrosive, and over time, it can cause many issues such as:

• Damage to electrical connections- The goo can weaken or break connections, leading to unreliable power.

• Increased risk of electrical faults- Faulty wiring can result in flickering lights, tripping circuit breakers, or appliances cutting out.

• Fire hazards- If left unchecked, deteriorating cables can overheat and spark electrical fires.

Simply cleaning the green goo won't solve the problem. Once cable greening begins, the affected wiring needs to be replaced to ensure safety.

What Should You Do If You Spot Cable Greening?

1. DO NOT attempt to fix it yourself- Exposed or damaged wiring can be dangerous, and tampering with it could lead to electrical shocks.

2. Call a licensed electrician- A professional can safely assess the extent of the problem and determine whether rewiring is necessary.

3. Consider an electrical inspection- If your home is older and you haven't had a recent electrical safety check, it's a good idea to have one done.

Rewiring may sound like a big job, but ensuring your home's electrical system is up to modern safety standards is an investment in your family's safety.

How to Prevent Wiring Issues in Older Homes

If your property was built before the 1970s, it's worth taking proactive steps to prevent electrical problems like cable greening:

• Book an Electrical Inspection- A professional assessment can identify aging or deteriorating wiring before it becomes a hazard.

• Upgrade Old Wiring- Modern PVC cables are designed to last longer and resist degradation, keeping your electrical system safe.

• Check for Other Warning Signs- If your lights flicker, your breakers trip frequently, or your sockets feel warm, it could indicate outdated wiring.

Cable greening is a common but serious issue in older UK homes. If left untreated, it can cause electrical failures and even pose a fire risk. The good news is that by spotting the signs early and calling a professional electrician, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home remains safe.

If you suspect cable greening in your home, don't wait- book an electrical inspection today and keep your home powered safely for years to come!

Need expert advice on cable greening or rewiring your home? Contact our team of licensed electricians for a professional assessment!

info@w-es.co.uk

01600712737