Wiring in a Loft Light

[Plumbstar Tom]

Hi all

I have popped over from the Plumbers forum for a bit of assistance

I want to pop a loft light in...well ...the loft prior to boarding it

I obviously need to find a live wire to this rather than a switched live off the landing light rose

Is there an easy way?

 

[Sparky Ninja]

Are you planning on having a switch up there too Tom?

 

[Plumbstar Tom]

Yes I am

Well either up there by the hatch or swap the single switch on the landing to a twin

Not fussed

But i dont want it to come on every time i pop the landing light on

 

[Sparky Ninja]

Simplest way would be to take a twin&earth cable from one of the light positions. Making sure that there is a permanent live at the position (likely to be a loop-in at a ceiling rose).

Take the cable from the light, to the switch position, then from the switch position to the loft light fitting position.

Make sure you isolate supply to the lighting circuit.

You'll need to remember that at the supply light fitting you will connect to line and neutral..NOT switch line.
At the Loft light you install will simply be switch line and neutral.
At the switch, connect the neutrals in the back of the patress in a connector block. Connect the line from the supply fitting to common, and the switch line to your new light in L1.

This is the simplest method. Other methods are available

 

[Plumbstar Tom]

appreciated widdler

 

[cornburn]

At the Loft light you install will simply be switch line and neutral.

And one other fairly important one not to forget. If you're using twin and earth cable then the clue's in the name That's the method I'd use too, will be easiest as widdler said. Make sure you're properly isolated first though and everyone knows why the lights are off, you don't want anyone coming home and knocking the power back on while you're connecting up now do you! Also make sure the cable's routed properly so it won't be damaged when you board it out. If in doubt find yourself someone local to stick it in for you, would probably be about £100 tested and certificated if no problems, plus you'll know your other lights in the house are safe too.