Installing Outside Light

[davas]

I would like to install an outside light (not a floodlight... just a normal light at the front door). This light will be placed on the outside wall of either the bedroom (ground floor flat) or the living room.

My question is... do the regs require protection if i run the cable directly through the cavity and into the bedroom/living room wall?

Also could this light be connected to the ring main or must it be connected to the lighting circuit. I can see that having the outside light protected by an RCD would be a major advantage.

Your thoughts and comments are appreciated.

Chris

 

[breezer]

no, and use a FCU, also see sticky for refernce

 

[Lectrician]

You are not required to RCD protect the lights for supplymentary protection.

The cable must enter directly into the rear to comply to part p.

I would extend the lighting circuit, it is the sensible option.

If your cable is drilled directly from outside to in, and then embedded in the wall, you WOULD need to ensure it runs in a wiring a zone (IE above an existing socket, switch etc), or place your new switch in the zone. Zones do not extend throught the wall if the wall is greater than 100mm thick.

If you cant wire in the zone, you would need to use earth steel conduit, or a cable with an earthed covering such as MI/SWA.

 

[davas]

Thanks for your replies breezer and Lectrician

So i'll extend the lighting circuit and I think that i may be able to place the light in such a position that it will be in the zone described as:

within 150 mm of an angle formed by two adjoining walls or partitions

... meaning no special protection required. Or have i misunderstood?

 

[Lectrician]

That would be fine, and compliant.

People do frown on it - as I do, but it is perfectly acceptable.

 

[davas]

That would be fine, and compliant.

People do frown on it - as I do, but it is perfectly acceptable.

I don't see any other option as I don't want to put in a socket just for that but I see your point that it isn't ideal.

Thanks for your advice

 

[Lectrician]

Even a box flushed in the wall with a blank plate over it would do.....