3 plate method

[peteelecs]

While putting up new light fitting I have found that the 3 plate method normally in the ceiling rose was actually done inside the switch is this legal?

 

[Spudnik]

Yep.........

Saves having a load of cables behind light fittings, and also is the only way if downlights are being installed.

 

[monkeyelectric]

I prefer them at switches, easier testing for a start an like jason said, you have'nt got loads of wires at the fitting so easier to fit any light fitting

 

[Des 56]

While putting up new light fitting I have found that the 3 plate method normally in the ceiling rose was actually done inside the switch is this legal?

If Tony Blair was to answer yes to that one then I might change my mind,but until he does its fine

 

[Davey101]

Yep.........

Saves having a load of cables behind light fittings, and also is the only way if downlights are being installed.

Eh? Whats wrong with joint boxes?

 

[Spudnik]

Eh? Whats wrong with joint boxes?

Nothing, provided they are maintenance free, but i would still run the circuit to the switch, especially if the client is having d/l or is undecided on what fitting they are having.

 

[sparks1234]

Nothing, provided they are maintenance free, but i would still run the circuit to the switch, especially if the client is having d/l or is undecided on what fitting they are having.

Hmmm, I dont see any reason why you cant 3-plate at a downlight, if they are low voltage they will require a junction box anyway. They dont need to be maintenance free as the junction boxes are accessible by dropping the light fitting.

 

[Spudnik]

Indeed, im not saying you cant.

I prefer to do it that way, just for my benefit really.

 

[andrew692003]

Indeed, im not saying you cant.

I prefer to do it that way, just for my benefit really.

Totally agree with you Jason. I would rather be connecting 3 or 4 cables at a light switch than standing on a ladder working above my head connecting a junction box!

The only downside that I find with looping in at the switch is that If you are using MK fittings as I do then their bloody light switches have really poor terminals if you ever need to connect more than 2 conductors into one of the contacts.

 

[amicus]

Hi If u are using the old style round j/b how do you clamp cables against straining.

 

[sparks1234]

Hi If u are using the old style round j/b how do you clamp cables against straining.

You use the J501 junction boxes instead, much better

 

[saveloy]

The only downside that I find with looping in at the switch is that If you are using MK fittings as I do then their bloody light switches have really poor terminals if you ever need to connect more than 2 conductors into one of the contacts.

I fix a terminal block to the back of the box or use Wago's. Take the loop in/out ,neutral and cpc into the terminal block (or Wago's). Then take a permanent live from the block to the terminal of the switch cpc to backbox and plate (if metal)- saves having to try and jam 3 conductors into a terminal.

Hi If u are using the old style round j/b how do you clamp cables against straining.

You can't. Best off using theseAshley J501 16 Amp Downlighter Junction Box
Then you will comply with the regs.

 

[super_stuey]

Second that saveloy. Wago's and a choc box makes easy work of downlighters.

To the OP, looping to the switches saves a lot of time when wiring and testing! Wouldnt say its the ONLY way tho. Use a combination of the two as it makes future additions easier having a permanent live and neutral in differnt locations other than the loft and under a floorboard.

 

[evilmonkey]

I cannot recall anything in the regs to suggest other wise . Although I am always a little dubious about running the neutral in a connector inside the switch box . I wonder if perhaps a manufacturer could create a 5amp plate switch with a neutral link specifically for the the purpose of wiring behind a switch?

 

[wattsup]

I once had a job 'checked out' by the powers that be...because of neutrals in switch box, 3-gang grid switches...anyhow I let them get on with it, the 'master spark' confirmed 240v L&E and 240 L&N ...therfore it was indeed a neutral within the switch box. (I had fun watching the check)

So they asked why I had a neutral,

Err, if you look closely it is double pole switch controlling a 5amp socket for chandelier lighting on stairs....Oh, I'll speak with my engineer.

Engineer says he thought it was an intermediate switch..

I say, Mr xxxx you need a new engineer. I ain't ever heard of neutral connected at an intermediate switch.
Deep joy, got loads of work thereafer. The guy was a fraud and didn't like that I got part of the installation, namely the effects lightig...