How to earth a double light switch

[Westwot]

Hi guys I'm changing from a plastic double light switch to a metal one, just for looks, however I am just stuck on one bit

The metal switch has got a small bit where the earth wire should go, but I do not have that wire available,

Probs best if you look at pics below

This is how it is currently wired with the plastic switch

And this is the metal switch case back

How do I wire it in basically

Thanks

 

[EFLImpudence]

You just need a short length of wire (g/y) from the connector block to the switch.

Bear in mind that the old switch is two triangles with one inverted.
The new one is two triangle the same way up.

Mark the wires and transfer the wires from one switch first.

 

[Jackrae]

Those green/yellow wires are your earth wires so you use a short length of sleeved wire to connect the metal switch facia to those.

Since you needed to ask the question, you are clearly uncomfortable with electrics. The connection sequence of your new switch may be different from that of the original.

On the new assembly the two switches (A and B) are quite discrete from each other and their common terminals (Common) are on one end, with the switched outputs (L1 and L2) on the other.

In your original assembly there is only a single moulding with 6 terminals marked, I think L1, L2 and L3 for each switch. On one side of the switch you have L1 for switch A and L2/L3 for switch B. On the other side there is L2/L3 for switch A and L1 for switch B.

You will therefore have to ensure the wires relevant to switch A go to one of the new discrete switches and similarly for B.

It is essential that you mark each and every wire with numbered tape so that you know exactly what came out of where before you disconnect any wires. If you don't and you get in a muddle it'll be difficult to get back to where you were. Never rely upon your memory when disconnecting wires. Memory always fails you.

All this, of course with power off. I'd also recommend you isolate all power, not just that that might be marked "lights" since there is no guarantee whoever wired things up did so correctly.

Edit : bo**oks, beaten to the post

 

[AndyPRK]

good luck with that!

Wonder if it will work first time.

or even the 10th time lol

 

[DetlefSchmitz]

good luck with that!

Wonder if it will work first time.

or even the 10th time lol

Well. That was constructive!

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

I would recommend isolation of circuit and proving dead, using approved voltage indicator, if performed correctly there would be no need for complete power loss.

 

[Jackrae]

Should have suggested that if the original switch is marked as L1 L2 and L3 then the new wiring should be :
Old New
L1 = Common
L2 = L2
L3 = L1

 

[AndyPRK]

good luck with that!

Wonder if it will work first time.

or even the 10th time lol

Well. That was constructive!

A good warning if he doesn't know what he's doing!
make him think twice or to make a note of the wires.