Light switch wiring query

[nae_mair]

hi. I went to put a new light switch in my porch that controls the light in there and the front door security light and when I took the old switch off the wall I found what you can see on the picture attached. Can someone explain why it is wired up like this?

 

[Dillb]

To utilise the same supply for both switches.

 

[Octopus]

Does it work properly ?

 

[telectrix]

the black in with the red appears to be the L feed. this is linked to the other switch, so tat both have a L. the blacks in the L1 terminals should then be the L's to each light.

 

[westward10]

First light switch I have seen on here without a load of copper conductor exposed.

 

[123]

First light switch I have seen on here without a load of copper conductor exposed.

But its let down by a lack of identification on the conductors.

 

[123]

And the rarest of things in a DIY lighting query - a picture before it is taken apart

 

[ipf]

If those are lives looped in the connector, it looks like you're switching neutrals. Get someone qualified to make sure.

 

[westward10]

Top spot.

 

[ipf]

Top spot.

Merci beaucoup

 

[nae_mair]

Does it work properly ?

Yes it works. But not sure if I should wire up new switches the same?

 

[JAWS]

If those are lives looped in the connector, it looks like you're switching neutrals. Get someone qualified to make sure.

Without sounding silly can you explain this one a bit please if you can?

 

[nae_mair]

Just wondering if I should get a professional in to wire up new switch

 

[westward10]

Without sounding silly can you explain this one a bit please if you can?

It is a good spot because it appears the lines are looped at a block connector with the neutrals to the switch, possibly. Needs addressing.

 

[westward10]

Just wondering if I should get a professional in to wire up new switch

Definitely as there could be incorrect polarity.

 

[ipf]

Without sounding silly can you explain this one a bit please if you can?

I've no intention of sounding silly, but think about it. If you're switching neutral instead of line what's the result......at the lampholder?

 

[JAWS]

I've no intention of sounding silly, but think about it. If you're switching neutral instead of line what's the result......at the lampholder?

Thanks.

I meant without me sounding silly not you.

 

[Octopus]

Yes it works. But not sure if I should wire up new switches the same?

You need this checked by a spark, as as it won’t take long, get them to check a few more.

How old is the property and / or have you had building work done or a rewrite ?

 

[StephenRowley]

I've no intention of sounding silly, but think about it. If you're switching neutral instead of line what's the result......at the lampholder?

When you go to change the bulb after turning power off at the light switch you'll still have a live supply there, so there is a risk of electric shock. Not that I would ever recommend sticking fingers into a light fitting regardless.

 

[ipf]

Without sounding silly can you explain this one a bit please if you can?

When you go to change the bulb after turning power off at the light switch you'll still have a live supply there, so there is a risk of electric shock. Not that I would ever recommend sticking fingers into a light fitting regardless.

Thank you.
I suggest you think about it, too......after reading the thread.