Not enough space behind new light switch. Help (PICS INSIDE)

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Hi guys

I was replacing my old light switch with a new one and came into a bit of a problem.

The old switch extends past the wall so has more space behind it whereas the new switch I tried to connect is flat against the wall.

I tried for almost an hour and could not get the new switch to push against the wall flat. Hence I took it off and put the old switch back on.

As the new switch is flat I am assuming the little extra space the old switch has lets it fit onto the wall.

Is there anything I can do to solve this problem? From what I can see its the wires that are getting in the way!

Or will I need to get a new switch that also extends past the wall?

See pics below for the switches I have:

New One:

Zfjwc5u.png


Old One:

gLgR6H0.jpg


Thanks.
 
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Yep either a different switch or cut out the existing back box and sink a 35mm deep box in, but there will probably be some making good to do afterwards!
 
Yep either a different switch or cut out the existing back box and sink a 35mm deep box in, but there will probably be some making good to do afterwards!

Sadly putting in a new box is not really an option as the walls have just been painted. I guess I will take a trip down to B&Q and see what other switches they have on offer :(
 
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A common problem with flat plate accessories. :cry:
And they look especially cr@p with a spacer like Westie has linked to.

Looks like you're gonna have to stick with '70s brass, or dig out that wall.
Sorry - its a zero option option.
 
What kind of wall is it? Looks like it could be a hollow wall back box?
 
Yep either a different switch or cut out the existing back box and sink a 35mm deep box in, but there will probably be some making good to do afterwards!

Sadly putting in a new box is not really an option as the walls have just been painted. I guess I will take a trip down to B&Q and see what other switches they have on offer :(

Do they still have the part-used tin of fairly fresh paint?
 
Assume there's an earth at that switch?

Yes there are three earth wires behind the switch. One is connected to the switch and two are sort of folded out of the way.

However the one that is connected to the switch seems really free moving like it may be broken further down the wire hence is able to move up and down with ease. Due to this I may use one of the folded away earths instead.
 
ALL earth wires need to be intact, and ALL joined together, and must be in contact with the metal switch front, and ideally the back box if metal.

NOTHING else would do.

Any earth wires not used must be verified to check they are actually earth wires.

With the power off, please send photos of what you have there.

It may be an idea to use a plastic switch until everything is satisfactorily checked and put right.
 

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