wiring outside post

by **mistergreen** » Sat Jul 24, 2010 8:49 pm

I have two 3 tier post and two spotlights that I would like to wire from the fuse panel. The dilemma I have is the post lights need to be switched ( have a light switch) and the two spotlights don't. Can I run these on the same 20 amp circuit? I already know how to install the switch. I just don't wanna overload or have any issues in the future. All suggestions will be appreciated.

Thanks
Mr. Green

by **jimmy_one_ball** » Sun Jul 25, 2010 1:05 am

Mr Green

If I understand this correctly then in a word, NO

There is a regulation - 433.4 Overload protection of conductors in parallel - which quotes "Where a single protective device (namely a fuse or MCB) protects two or more conductors in parallel there shall be no branch circuits or devices for isolation or switching in the parallel conductors". I think this concerns your particular requirements.

Also why a 20A MCB?

Use a 6A MCB to protect the switched tier lamps and can't you simply plug the spots into an existing socket outlet? A 3Amp cartrige fuse in the plug top would be suffice.

If this is in the garden as i suspect it is then use RCBO's (unless the circuits are alrady RCD protected). Just use appropriate external cable and you're laughing.

All The Best

by **sparx** » Sun Jul 25, 2010 6:59 pm

not quite that simple, I presume these are outside lights in which case you cannot wire these yourself legally without involving building control.

We cannot therefore offer help to do reportable work,
regards