If your home was built or rewired between 1965 and 1971, you may be dealing with an unusual but serious issue known as Green Goo. While it sounds harmless, this sticky, dark green substance can seep from your sockets and switches, and it’s more than just an unsightly problem.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what Green Goo is, why it happens, and why it’s essential to address it sooner rather than later.
Green Goo - Wessex Electrical Services, Alton
What is Green Goo?
Green Goo is a tacky, dark green substance that may look like washing-up liquid. It leaks from electrical outlets, switches, and even along the walls beneath sockets in severe cases.
In many properties, this phenomenon goes unnoticed until electrical work is carried out. If you spot any signs of Green Goo, it’s crucial not to ignore it.
Why Does Green Goo Occur?
The issue stems from the manufacturing practices of PVC cables in the 1960s and 70s. At the time, plasticisers were added to PVC to make the cables flexible. However, these early plasticisers had an unfortunate side effect: they reacted with the copper inside the cables when exposed to heat. Over time, this reaction causes the plasticiser to leach out, resulting in the sticky, green residue we now call Green Goo.
Why is Green Goo a Concern?
- Electrical Safety Risks - Green Goo isn’t just messy—it can damage the internal wiring in your home. As the plasticiser continues to leach out, the cables become brittle and prone to breaking. The warmer the conductors (cables) get, the more this process accelerates, increasing the likelihood of electrical faults.
- Hidden Hazards - Because Green Goo often goes unnoticed, it may silently compromise the safety of your home’s electrical installation. Brittle cables can lead to overheating, short circuits, or even electrical fires.
- Health Concerns - While Green Goo itself isn’t known to be highly toxic, it can be unhygienic and unpleasant to deal with. If left untreated, the build-up can worsen over time.
What Should You Do About Green Goo?
If you suspect your property is affected by Green Goo, it’s essential to act right away. Here are the key steps:
- Inspect Your Sockets and Switches: Look for any signs of green residue around outlets & switches
- Contact a Qualified Electrician: Don’t attempt to fix the issue yourself. A professional electrician can assess the extent of the problem and recommend the safest course of action.
- Replace Affected Wiring: In most cases, replacing the aged PVC cables with modern, safe alternatives is the best solution.
At Wessex Electrical Services, we specialise in identifying and resolving issues like Green Goo. Our team can ensure your home’s wiring is safe, compliant, and built to modern standards.
How to Prevent Green Goo in the Future
While Green Goo is primarily an issue with older PVC wiring, regular electrical inspections can help catch potential problems early. Routine maintenance not only ensures safety but also prolongs the life of your electrical system.
Call to Action
Don’t Let Green Goo Go Unnoticed! 💡
If your home was built or rewired between 1965 and 1971, it’s time to check for Green Goo. Call Wessex Electrical Services Ltd today for a professional inspection.
📞 Contact us at 01420384247
📩 Email us at justin@wessexelectricalservices.co.uk
