Please read the disclaimer
before attempting any electrical work. If
you are uncertain then contact
a qualified electrician.
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Loop
in ceiling rose lighting method
In this method,
a twin and earth cable runs
from the consumer unit to each
of the ceiling roses one after
the other, then a twin and earth
cable runs from each ceiling
rose to the switch.
This is the
most common method used and
the method i would choose if
i was re-wiring the lighting
circuit from scratch. |
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Loop
in switch lighting method
In this
method a twin and earth cable
runs from the consumer unit
to each switch one after another,
then a twin and earth cable
runs from each switch to the
each light.
This method
is the 2nd most popular and
is great for things like wall
lights or outside lights because
there is only 1 two core and
earth cable at the light fitting.
There is nothing worse than
having to struggle trying to
fit 3 two core and earths inside
a small wall light or small
outside light. |
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Junction
box lighting method
In this
method, the twin and earth cable
runs from the consumer unit
to one junction box after another.
then from each junction box,
one twin and earth cable runs
to the light and another runs
to the light switch.
This
is in my opinion the worst way
to wire lights. If you use the
junction box method always leave
them accessible in case of any
problems in the future and you
need to get to them. |
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Which
cable size should I use for my lighting
circuit?
(1mm or 1.5mm)
1mm sq and 1.5mm sq =maximum of 1200 watts
1mm sq = maximum length must not exceed
83 m of cable length measured without the
switch lengths
1.5mm sq = maximum length must not exceed
83 m of cable length measured without the
switch lengths
(These cable lengths assume that the surrounding
temperature does not exceed 30 degrees centigrade
and that cables are not bunched together
or covered with insulation of any kind)
Even if your circuits
do not reach the maximum permissible load,
it is normal to have a upstairs lighting
circuit and downstairs lighting circuit.
For example In the event of an electrical
fault on the upstairs lighting circuit you
will still have the lights on downstairs.
Tips
When choosing a position
for a new ceiling rose I always bring the
cables out directly next to a joist. If
this is not possible then mount a wooden
batten between the two nearest joists to
provide a secure fixing for the light.
If you are using metal/chrome/brass switches
always make sure the switch is earthed.
Check if your lights have
earths, if there are no earths in your switches
or lights get in touch with a qualified
electrician.
Always use insulated tools
when working with electricity.
Take your time and
double over your simple cables as good practice.
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