Electric shower pull switch isolator

[clematis432]

Hi, my neighbour has had to change his electric shower (6kw) pull switch (32A) 3 times in 4yrs. Apart from it possibly being poor quality switches he,s replacing, I was wondering if there is any reason not to leave the pull switch isolator in the "on" position. Thanks

 

[Andy78]

I have never seen a 32A ceiling pull switch. Generally 45A or 50A for shower switches.
The most common cause of these burning out is poor termination causing a loose connection. There can be many reasons for this.
I fit the Crabtree 50A switch as it gives the best termination opportunities as opposed to plate type switches.


There is nothing wrong with leaving it on all the time.

 

[clematis432]

Yes you are correct, it is a 45A. My problem is, it,s me that has fitted the last two for him, although he supplies them ! There has been no sign of bad connections either time. But thanks for answering my core question.

 

[Dustydazzler]

Heavy load Vs Cheap products = burned out

I have seen this on cheap immersion timers etc

Infact I just changed 2 immersion timers for 2 different people , neither timer lasted more than 18 months

Have installed Timeguard now but not cheap at £30 a pop

 

[Charlie_]

Are you sure the shower is 6kw and not 9kw..
What make of isolator have you used?
Did you inspect the inside of the shower unit when you replaced the isolator?

 

[clematis432]

Yes, the shower is 6kw(6. something perhaps) can,t quite remember. What difference would it make if it was 9kw ?
Did not inspect inside of shower unit, why would this be necessary ?

 

[Dustydazzler]

Could you not install a 45a wall switch on the outside of the room

 

[clematis432]

Could you not install a 45a wall switch on the outside of the room

Yes, this would be preferable, but I,m at the age now I only do tiddly jobs !

 

[SJD]

1. As mentioned, make sure the switch is a decent quality.

2. Assuming the cables are stranded, after tightening the connections, wait a few minutes and re-tighten. Any loose connections are likely to overheat.

3. Some people use this isolator switch to turn the shower on/off, which can lead to premature failure. Leave this isolator on, and turn the shower on/off at the shower unit.

 

[Pete999]

Hi, my neighbour has had to change his electric shower (6kw) pull switch (32A) 3 times in 4yrs. Apart from it possibly being poor quality switches he,s replacing, I was wondering if there is any reason not to leave the pull switch isolator in the "on" position. Thanks

I leave mine OFF and operate the shower via the controls on the shower, I NEVER SWITCH THE PULL CORD ON LOAD. turn shower Off via controls and isolate via the pull cord.

 

[clematis432]

1. As mentioned, make sure the switch is a decent quality.

2. Assuming the cables are stranded, after tightening the connections, wait a few minutes and re-tighten. Any loose connections are likely to overheat.

3. Some people use this isolator switch to turn the shower on/off, which can lead to premature failure. Leave this isolator on, and turn the shower on/off at the shower unit.

Thanks SJD, points 2 and 3 have been adhered to, but think my neighbour has skimped on point 1. I wish I had checked the make of it, but I know it only cost him £8 !

 

[Midwest]

When you’ve replaced the faulty pull cord, did you make sure the exposed cables ends were ‘clean’?

 

[clematis432]

When you’ve replaced the faulty pull cord, did you make sure the exposed cables ends were ‘clean’?

Yes, think that,s a basic, no offence.

 

[Pete999]

Yes, think that,s a basic, no offence.

You would be surprised how many don't check the cables clematis, oh by the way mine are blooming well.

 

[Dustydazzler]

Yes, this would be preferable, but I,m at the age now I only do tiddly jobs !

Borrow the home owner your hammer and chisel and get them to smash out a chase for you , you then go back later and just put the cables in and connect up the new switch...