lighting problem - please help!

[LayerSeven]

hi all,

i installed some new spotlights in a customers kitchen and an external security light about 6 months ago. all went well with the install - test results were good and the lights worked as the client wanted them to (switchable from 3 points in the kitchen).
however, i got a call today to say the kitchen lights and the security light had stopped working. i went round and did some testing on them to try and find out what the problem was but couldnt figure it out. i only had time to do some basic tests as the client couldnt give me much time but what i found was:

• measured 240v at the switches
• measured 240v at the light fittings
• bulbs definitely work, i tried them in a different fitting
• checked for loose connections at the db, switches and light fittings and found none
• switch lives and common seem to be working as they should but i need to test again

client says no work has been done to the house or wiring since they were fitted so i'm assuming no damage to cables but i still need to test them.

the only part of the circuit i cant get to for testing is a junction box concealed in the ceiling cavity but if i have to i can cut a hole in the plasterboard to get to it. obviously i would like to avoid this if possible!

anyone come across this before and got any handy suggestions on what the problem might be?

thanks in advance for any help given.

 

[Plonker 3]

If you have measured 240 volts at the fittings then the problem is at the fitting.

 

[Pete999]

Not trying to be cheeky or anything 240v at lights and switches, is that 240v L-N?

 

[Plonker 3]

I take you have measured 240 volt to neutral?

 

[Marvo]

So if you're testing 240v being switched to the fittings surely it can only be a missing neutral. How did you wire the circuit exactly? Did you make a proper MF joint in the ceiling?

 

[LayerSeven]

sorry, should have clarified. i measured 240v between L and E at the light fittings

 

[Plonker 3]

Why did you not measure to neutral?

 

[monkeyelectric]

What about L - N?

 

[Pete999]

Lost Neutral then I think

 

[7029 dave]

Does sound that way no N

 

[Pete999]

If it's a duff joint in the JB then it's bustin open the ceiling sorry if I can;t be more helpful mate best of luck

 

[Plonker 3]

This basic electrical fault finding if its a missing neutral

 

[Marvo]

It's even more basic fault finding if it's the fittings

 

[Pete999]

True could be a bad connection at the first fitting

 

[Silly Sausage]

It's all be said, I'd say!

Just to add, when fault finding/testing, take measurements between ALL conductors.
L-N, L-E, N-E, S/L-... etc.