Extractor fan switch found under kitchen sink

sparkiejay · May 12, 2014

Hi

Today whilst we were carrying out works to a holiday cottage i noticed this under kitchen sink, we will be back there for few days so can notify landlord, spark who im with said for me not to worry about, which i don't agree with.

Double pole switch inside enclosure is redundant including 4/6mm T+E Cable, although the single pole switch is live controlling the extractor fan in the adjoining washroom.

Am i correct in thinking the redundant items need removing and the live extractor fan switch requires enclosing inside an IP rated enclosure as well as the switch being correctly changed to a 3pole fan isolator switch.

Any thoughts be great, thanks

[ElectriciansForums.net] Extractor fan switch found under kitchen sink

Richard Burns · May 12, 2014

If the redundant cables are dead and disconnected then whilst it would be ideal to remove them there is no need to do so.You could also say that bits of sleeving, small section of cable, dust, etc, should be removed but it is not a requirement.

If the light switch is simply turning a fan on and off then it is doing its job.
If the switch is intended as an isolator for a timer fan then it is inappropriate.
There is no requirement to have any level of IP rating above that for general use for items under sink.
It might be a good idea if the sink leaks, but generally if you have a leak so bad it affects the switch you will have other problems to deal with!

davesparks · May 12, 2014

Is it the isolator for the fan that appears to be next to the switch? if so then it is the right place for an isolator for that fan.

Geordie Spark · May 13, 2014

That pipework is a fairly tidy job but would look better with the green verdigris cleaned off.

Give it a rub down with a bit of wire wool and a damp cloth next time you're down there.