Lighting Circuits.

[Ben Butcher]

Hello Guys,

A few very helpful replies last time, I thank you all. Different query this time, I have today been told that the modern way of running lighting circuits is to take the supply to the switch, join the N in a connector block and then run the switched supply to the light fitting as one cable. Is this something everyone agrees on? as when I was trained I was told that there should never be the need for a connector block or JB etc in a new installation, i.e the cable going to the CR first then the switch cable coming off from there. I know the world has moved on since I left the industry but this seems a little lazy? Any pointers would be gratefully received, Ta, Ben.

 

[telectrix]

both ways are acceptable. standard way is still to loop at ceiling rose, but where light fittings don't have provision for a permanent L, it is sometimes easier to loop at the switch. there are available switches with a N terminal to eliminate the need for a separate choc block (or wago)

 

[trev]

It's not a "modern" way of doing it mate it's been done in conduit systems for years. Personally I don't like it in domestic situations but my ---- retentiveness is well known There's nothing in the regs which dictates either way is the "right" way

 

[Plonker 3]

I personally see nothing wrong with taking neutrals to the switch and just one cable too the light fitting but

 

[telectrix]

i'd better get my tin hat on as well.

 

[Plonker 3]

I actually prefer it as it makes fault finding simpler as you don't need steps up to various light fittings and also installing lights at a later stage is easier, simply taking a 3c and earth from the switch also provides everything needed should expansion be required later on.

 

[Octopus]

I prefer neutrals at switches and this way numpties don't go hiding screw type JB's where you don't know they are so any subsequent fault finding becomes very difficault.

 

[oldtimer]

It all depend how is wired ie if it was a bungalow then it would be a loop in loop out at the ceiling rose or light point the only problem for the DIY guys is the join al the reds/black or brown/blues together put the fuse back in and the light stays on then they flick the light switch and BANG.

Also if its conduit then it loop in loop out if a new build then the individual may wire from below hence the loop in loop out via the light switches.

Murdoch I like loop in loop out at the light point but if I have to I will hunt for the JB as long that there is no laminated floor

 

[Amp David]

Always loop at the switch on rewires that involve down lights or when the customer has asked for fancy fittings to be installed.

Some like it, some hate it, but that life i suppose.

 

[Adam W]

I don't think it should be a case of doing it 'because it's modern' - it makes wiring light fittings without an extra loop terminal (eg wall lights, downlighters etc) easier and neater. These kind of fittings seem to be more popular nowadays hence why this method of wiring switches has as well.
I prefer to wire 2 way lighting in the 'traditional' way with no neutral at the switch, should the DIYer decide they never use the switch but since the box is chased out already it would make a handy place to plug the vacuum cleaner in.

Ideally every 2 way switch should have a single socket underneath it to stop people wanting to do this, which will be a requirement when I'm in charge...

 

[Guest111]

I think its a matter of personal preference,councils used to wire houses in singles,neutrals looped from fitting to fitting and live,s looped at switch,they said it saved cable but it was a nightmare if you needed a permenant live at fitting at a later date.

 

[sedgy34]

the new houses we do ground floor feed looped through switches and upstairs looped at lights

 

[PC Electrics]

All three methods discussed are perfectly valid. It will mainly come down to a combination of personal preference and the new layout requirements. I've used combinations of all three methods on one install before now. A big driving factor is wall and ceiling lights with tiny space inside for the wiring.

 

[ackbarthestar]

All three methods discussed are perfectly valid. It will mainly come down to a combination of personal preference and the new layout requirements. I've used combinations of all three methods on one install before now. A big driving factor is wall and ceiling lights with tiny space inside for the wiring.

Ditto.....

My normal preference is live and neutral looped in at the switches, particularly if the ceiling height is above 12ft.

Monkeys swing better at heights, Gorillas don't

 

[joe j]

I was taught loop in at switch then changed to ceiling rose but often now find better to bring n to switch as a lot of fittings don't have perm live terminal. Also Hager switches have n jointing terminal. Horses for courses.