Best Cable Glands for Consumer Units: 2025 Expert Review
Oli
Owner, OR Electrics
If you're looking into consumer unit upgrades, you might think a cable gland is just a small bit of plastic. But in my trade, these components are vital. Whether we're dealing with a damp Victorian cellar in Armley or a student HMO in Headingley, the integrity of your electrical enclosure depends on how well the cables enter the box.
Under BS 7671 regulations, we need to maintain the IP coverage (Ingress Protection) of the consumer unit, specifically on the top surface where dust and debris settle. Poorly fitted cables without proper glands can lead to strain on terminals, loose connections, and ultimately, fire risks. It's not just about tidiness; it's about safety.
In this review, I've selected three types of nylon stuffing glands I use regularly. I'll cover a reliable budget pack for standard circuits, a high-quality M25 option essential for meter tails, and a robust kit perfect for harsh outdoor or damp environments.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "IP68 Waterproof Rating"
"The gland is completely dust-tight and can withstand immersion in water."
This is only true if the surface you are drilling into is perfectly flat and the locknut is tightened correctly. On flexible plastic enclosures or textured surfaces, you often need an extra bead of sealant to guarantee a true seal.
The Spec: "Universal Fit (6-12mm)"
"One gland fits all standard domestic cables."
Whilst the compression seal adjusts, trying to squeeze a stiff 10mm² twin and earth into a standard M20 gland in a cold garage is a nightmare. Always size your gland correctly for the specific cable diameter.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
SWA Pack of 10 Black 20mm Nylon Cable Glands
SWA
SWA is a staple brand for electricians across the UK. For standard circuit wiring (lighting, ring mains) entering a consumer unit, these 20mm glands offer excellent value. They are reliable, engage the threads smoothly, and tighten down firmly without stripping.
The Good
- Excellent price point for a pack of 10
- Reliable SWA brand quality
- Standard M20 size fits most consumer unit knockouts
The Bad
- Only suitable for cables up to 12mm diameter
- Basic washers included
Installer Tip:
These are perfect for 2.5mm² Twin & Earth cables. If you're bringing multiple cables into a consumer unit, ensure you space your holes effectively so the locknuts don't overlap inside the enclosure.
Priced at £5.50 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonMeccion M25 Cable Gland 5 Pack IP68 Waterproof
Meccion
This is where we step up in size and quality. The Meccion M25 glands are made from non-recycled PA-66 nylon, making them far more resistant to cracking. Crucially, as these are M25 (25mm), they are the correct size for incoming meter tails, which simply won't fit through a standard 20mm gland.
The Good
- M25 size essential for thick meter tails (16mm² / 25mm²)
- Virgin nylon construction is stronger and UV stable
- Thickened rubber sealing ring for superior water resistance
The Bad
- More expensive per unit
- Requires a 25mm hole saw or knockout
Installer Tip:
When upgrading a consumer unit, you must secure the main tails to preventing strain on the main switch. Use these M25 glands for the 16mm² or 25mm² tails. The 100% new nylon means you can torque the locknut tight without fearing it will split.
Priced at £11.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on Amazon10 Pack M20 20mm IP68 Waterproof Black Cable Glands
AVARTEK
For harsh environments—like damp stone cellars in Leeds or outdoor rotary isolators—the AVARTEK glands are a robust choice. They focus heavily on the quality of the seal and resistance to degradation. The kit comes complete with robust rubber seals and washers that sit flush, solving the issue of water ingress in tricky spots.
The Good
- Exceptional resilience to indoor/outdoor harsh environments
- Deep compression seal prevents moisture tracking
- Great value for a high-performance seal
The Bad
- Slightly stiffer plastic than the SWA option
Installer Tip:
If you are installing an outdoor socket or a garage supply where condensation is a risk, swap the standard glands for these. The rubber seal offers peace of mind that moisture won't track down the cable and into the live terminals.
Priced at £6.95 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between M20 and M25 glands?
Do I really need cable glands for an indoor consumer unit?
Can I use these glands for armoured cable (SWA)?
Why do you recommend professional installation?
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