? Installing 2way switches into a outdoor socket circuit.

[RW1957]

As a newcomer here firstly I would like to say Hello to everyone.

I currently have a outdoor socket at the bottom of the garden (40ft from house).
This is supplied (on a radial) on a 20amp RCBO from the CU in the Garage.
I would like to run low voltage garden lights from this socket.

So here is my Question,
Instead of having to walk down the garden to switch the lights on and off when needed, is it allowed to install 2 x 2way (20amp rated) outdoor light switches into the circuit. 1 would be beside the backdoor and the other on the wall of the garage (approx halfway down the garden where the patio area is).

 

[Pete999]

I seem to have upset you all with the rules and regs comment, so I apologise.

Going back to my original post
Is it allowed to have 2way switches in a socket circuit?

If an electrician fits them.

nothing I'm retired, you should stay out Pete you did say, I know couldn't resist.

 

[HandySparks]

Two way switching of the socket supply may be possible, subject to various considerations including voltage drop and earth fault loop impedance.

There may be better ways, such as wireless control or use of an impulse relay which would allow the switching to be done in low current cable and switches.

 

[Octopus]

I seem to have upset you all with the rules and regs comment, so I apologise.

Going back to my original post
Is it allowed to have 2way switches in a socket circuit?

If an electrician fits them.

Try and find the appropriate rated switches first ................

TBH, despite your description, the only way to really determine this is to get people to take a look - there is no substitute for a site visit expecially when there are ideas of adapting what is already there.

 

[Strima]

I would more than likely go with wireless controller as it will save a lot of hassle running new circuits in for two way switching etc.

I have recently added a couple of LIFX lamps at home which are WiFi controlled, this sort of set up could be an option.

 

[Richard Burns]

Switching a socket circuit would be possible to do, (normally it would not arise because switching multiple sockets would not be helpful).
The method you describe is not ideal because of the length of cable run (although you have not specified the length of cable required).
Increasing the length of a circuit by over twice its designed length may cause non compliance that would mean the circuit may not disconnect in time to meet the safety requirements of the regulations.
The redesign of the circuit should take these issues into account.
The cable run could also be better designed to minimise excess cable.
It would be best to ask a local electrician to design the modification for you and ask them if you can run cables as you both require. This would minimise the cost to you and ensure the safety of the circuit.

 

[shaun1]

Another option that may help you comply is downgrading the MCB to 10A. This should still allow you to use the lawnmower etc. But this still needs to be calculated once cable lengths are established.

 

[RW1957]

Murdock - Thanks, what rating for the switches would you suggest? I suggested the 20amp in OP because circuit is supplied by 20amp RCBO in House CU and 20amp MBC in garage CU.

Strima - Sorry, but I cant really see the hassle in running 1 & 1/2 metres of surface clipped 2.5mm T&E from the adaptable box (where the existing T&E is connected to the SWA), into the back of the first switch, then 7metres of 3core & E, again surfaced clipped along garage wall before going through the existing conduit, into the house and into the back of the second switch.

In fact, it as probably taken me longer to type all this " complex and costly weekend project" out than to have got it done.

All I wanted to know was,
same as you shouldn't put crossply & radials on the same axle.
Is there any regulation that you shouldn't put what are essentially outside light switches on a socket circuit?

 

[Timbo]

Replace your existing socket with one of these: 13 Amp 2 Gang Outdoor Socket - Remote Controlled - IP66 - https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/KBIP9000R.html?source=adwords&ad_position=1o9&ad_id=45425533757&placement=&kw=&network=g&matchtype=&ad_type=pla&product_id=KBIP9000R&product_partition_id=174047710867&test=finalurl_v2&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvrfSBRC2ARIsAFumcm9kb6smzZ66dpJJfp-xbPs66V15kDGItpGoR9s_B78TDw52wDk97qMaAvHQEALw_wcB

Simple and probably cheaper.

How are you connecting your low voltage lights?

 

[HandySparks]

Strima - Sorry, but I cant really see the hassle in running 1 & 1/2 metres of surface clipped 2.5mm T&E from the adaptable box (where the existing T&E is connected to the SWA), into the back of the first switch, then 7metres of 3core & E, again surfaced clipped along garage wall before going through the existing conduit, into the house and into the back of the second switch.

What size of 3C&E were you planning to use? I doubt if you'll find any over 1.5mm². One reason for my suggestion of alternative methods.

 

[telectrix]

i'm with timbo. replace the existing socket with a wireless remote controlled one.

 

[RW1957]

Timbo - Thanks, that could just be the answer, and I could just replace the existing socket myself. Will look into it more when I have time tomorrow.
Was planning on running the low voltage lights from a plug&play transformer with a plug lead into the socket.

Handy Spark - Had been planning on using 2.5mm 3C&E, had a quick look round on internet and there seemed to be some available.

 

[Squid]

Replace your existing socket with one of these: 13 Amp 2 Gang Outdoor Socket - Remote Controlled - IP66 - https://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/KBIP9000R.html?source=adwords&ad_position=1o9&ad_id=45425533757&placement=&kw=&network=g&matchtype=&ad_type=pla&product_id=KBIP9000R&product_partition_id=174047710867&test=finalurl_v2&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvrfSBRC2ARIsAFumcm9kb6smzZ66dpJJfp-xbPs66V15kDGItpGoR9s_B78TDw52wDk97qMaAvHQEALw_wcB

Simple and probably cheaper.

How are you connecting your low voltage lights?

Do you need a cable to power it or does the 240V electrikery flow wirelessly to it?

 

[Timbo]

Do you need a cable to power it or does the 240V electrikery flow wirelessly to it?

As there is an existing socket there, the 240v just travels down the copper as usual.

 

[Squid]

Damn, not as clever as I thought.........

 

[HandySparks]

Handy Spark - Had been planning on using 2.5mm 3C&E, had a quick look round on internet and there seemed to be some available.

Interesting. Do you have a link?