Outdoor light and switch

[electricstar]

Hi there

I am getting someone in to change an outdoor switch and outdoor wall light (like for like).
The old switch and light was covered by a lean which has now been removed so everything will be fully exposed.
I've bought a new outdoor switch and lamp.

Would someone be able to explain to me the best way of making sure all this is water tight so I can keep an eye on things being done correctly?

Many thanks

 

[SJD]

The first thing is to make sure you have bought a decent switch and light that actually are weatherproof (if installed correctly). Some of the stuff sold is not really, despite what the manufacturer may claim. Perhaps post links to what you have bought?

 

[electricstar]

The first thing is to make sure you have bought a decent switch and light that actually are weatherproof (if installed correctly). Some of the stuff sold is not really, despite what the manufacturer may claim. Perhaps post links to what you have bought?

Thanks for reply. I've bought these two:

British General IP66 20A 1-Gang 2-Way Weatherproof Outdoor Switch with Neon - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Weatherproof and dust-tight 20A switch. Manufactured from robust, impact-resistant polycarbonate with multiple gland entry positions. Single pole. FREE next day delivery available, free collection in 1 minute.

www.screwfix.com

Napoli Outdoor Oval Oval Bulkhead Black - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Die-cast aluminium and glass. Opal diffuser. FREE next day delivery available, free collection in 1 minute.

www.screwfix.com

 

[SJD]

The switch looks OK, avoid cable entry from the top, ideally use bottom entry gland positions, with proper glands. The LED indicator typically is wired so it lights up when the light is off, and this can cause problems with low-power LED lamps (unwanted flickering or flashing when switched off).

The light itself looks pretty cheap and verging on the nasty, but may be OK. Again, consideration of cable entry, so water doesn't run down the cable and into the light fitting.

 

[electricstar]

The switch looks OK, avoid cable entry from the top, ideally use bottom entry gland positions, with proper glands. The LED indicator typically is wired so it lights up when the light is off, and this can cause problems with low-power LED lamps (unwanted flickering or flashing when switched off).

The light itself looks pretty cheap and verging on the nasty, but may be OK. Again, consideration of cable entry, so water doesn't run down the cable and into the light fitting.

Thank you, that's great. Yes maybe I should think about a different lamp although it's a major upgrade compared what was there before.
I was going to buy some brass glands.

 

[MJPD29]

Just ask your electrician to make sure il ratings for area are met. Brass glands aren’t required, plastic will be fine. Personally I wouldn’t use that light or switch but they might be ok.

 

[Uplight99]

Hi there

I am getting someone in to change an outdoor switch and outdoor wall light (like for like).
The old switch and light was covered by a lean which has now been removed so everything will be fully exposed.
I've bought a new outdoor switch and lamp.

Would someone be able to explain to me the best way of making sure all this is water tight so I can keep an eye on things being done correctly?

Many thanks

Lol just be honest with us and say you’re looking to attempt it yourself

If you hired an electrician you wouldn’t need to worry about keeping and eye on what he’s doing..

 

[electricstar]

Lol just be honest with us and say you’re looking to attempt it yourself

If you hired an electrician you wouldn’t need to worry about keeping and eye on what he’s doing..

Cynicism lol. I had no intention of attempting this myself. Having said that, the info. I got here was invaluable. I hired a friend who let's just say is a bit rusty so I was really looking over his shoulders just to make sure it was done correctly. Did we argue: of course but the job got done so thank all round.