2 circuits 1 switch

[monkeyelectric]

I've been to a job today and installed 10 500w halogens, no problem with that but tcustomer wanted them all on one switch but as i suggested split to 2 circuits just incase it trips you won't lose the lot only half. I used a cooker switch and used half of it for one circuit and half for the other, is this acceptable? and if it is how can you make the neon illuminate when the lights are switched on without the neutral being there? if there is a better way of doing this setup please let me know, she did'nt want a 2 gang switch or two seperates , cheers

 

[Adam W]

I would consider using a contactor, then you could have one 'normal' switch controlling 2 or more circuits.

 

[Deleted member 9648]

Me too.



10 500w halogens......hasnt your customer heard of global warming

 

[davelerave]

ya the multipole contactor is fairly standard for lighting control

10 500w halogens?

 

[Adam W]

There are a few low energy alternatives available which could have been better in the long run, depending on the application.

 

[empress]

would have to agree a multi way contactor with single switch controling the coil would be the standard option for this set up.
prob feed a load of cheap metal halide fittings instead of jarassic halogens .
what carbon footprint

 

[monkeyelectric]

Did think about a contactor but i have'nt done much with them but seems the way forward, halogens were best choice for this application as the lady lives on her own in the middle of nowhere and has heard people outside in the middle of the night so she wanted to suprise them, they won't be used much

 

[andyb]

How are you fusing the cables to the light fittings?

 

[monkeyelectric]

All sorted now, contactor in place, works perfect, thanks guys

 

[monkeyelectric]

How are you fusing the cables to the light fittings?

Mcbs dear fellow if thats what you mean

 

[andyb]

Mcbs dear fellow if thats what you mean

Not really, I was only asking because in your op you mentioned 2.5 kw on one circuit. I just wondered if you were putting this on a 16a mcb and if so how were you protecting the cables to the fittings, or are you running 2.5 to these.