New Zealand Connect 2 Separate Switches to Operate 1 Light

[Arborist]

Hi everyone, I'd like to say hi as this is my first post.

Along with many other folks out there, I have been making use of the lock-down time to get on with some DIY projects. One of these is to change the dated spot light wall fitting over the bed. It has 2 spots, each operated by a separate switch. My new fitting still has 2 spots, but only 1 connection. Can I just join the wires coming from the 2 switches at the light fitting (see photo). Cheers and all the best, Tim

 

[Lucien Nunes]

The problem you will get is that because the switches will be in parallel, if either switch is on the light will be on, i.e if A turns it on, B will not be able to turn it off. Normal 2-way switching gives full control to both switches. Depending on whether a simple route exists between the two switches, it might be straightforward to pull in a new length of cable and configure it as a proper 2-way.

NB, before making any interconnection, it is essential to confirm that the two existing switches are on the same circuit. Most unlikely for them not to be, but interconnecting two circuits is dangerous and prohibited so it needs checking. I would connect both actives but insulate one neutral, otherwise the neutral will form a loop which would be confusing to anyone tracing it out in the future.