Trying to install downlights into a room

[JackFrost]

Hello, I am trying to install three downlights into a room. But, I came across this problem where there are three wires hanging rather than one?

I am totally lost. Any help would be appreciated.
[automerge]1599411822[/automerge]
Not that savvy but what is that?

 

[GBDamo]

First thing you've done right is not to disconnect the original fiting. Seriously, well done the number of similar situations we see with just three cables hanging out the ceiling is huge.

Take pictures of the cables and the terminals they are in.

Google loop in loop out light circuits to get a better idea of what each cable is.

If you are determined and competent enough to attempt this then make sure you isolate the circuit and can prove you've isolated it.

If after your research you're still not sure, get a spark in.

 

[ChrisElectrical88]

What sort of room is it?

 

[Wilko]

Hi - this will likely be one cable incoming, one cable outgoing and the other is to the switch and back. These need to be properly terminated in a junction box if you are going to remove that existing fitting.

 

[JackFrost]

It's a bed room.

 

[telectrix]

as post #2. standard way of light wiring for donkeys. nowadays it's more common to loop at the switch to allow for smart switches. simple job for a sparks to sort out.

 

[Dartlec]

If you are lucky, one of the black cables will have red sleeving. That will make it easier as that cable will be the leg to the switch (permanent live down to the switch and switched live back when switch is operated)

Be aware that the other two of those 3 cables will be live even with the light switch off - so as already mentioned ensure that you have isolated the circuit at the fuse box before doing any work.

If in doubt, ask before proceeding at each step..

Can you access the room from above in the loft?

 

[JackFrost]

How much you reckon it'll be? We've already drilled the holes for the downlights ect. It's literally just the wiring.

 

[telectrix]

How much you reckon it'll be? We've already drilled the holes for the downlights ect. It's literally just the wiring.

a local spark could fit the downlights safely for a max. of 2 hours, say, £70 tops (+ any materials supplied) where I live. whereabouts are you. 1 of us may be local.

 

[JackFrost]

We're in Bristol.