Any 3 Gang, 2 Way light swtches this size?

[mottsy]

I am in the process of replacing the old bakelite sockets and switches for new ones.
In the Hallway I have a 3 gang 2way light switch that measures 83mm wide by 185mm high.

I would like to replace it with one the same size of slightly larger if possible to avoid having to redecorate. I did find a 3 gang dimmer which could have been installed that way up, but she who must be obeyed is not keen on this as we would not be able to use low energy bulbs. (The switch controls the porch and landing lights which are normally left on for long periods!")

I thought that I would therefor tap into you vast knowledge banks to see if there is anything available. (If not I shall leave it untill such time as I decorate, or get divorced.)

Many thanks

Mottsy

 

[Lectrician]

I think with a switch like that, you need to assess how old and in what condition your wiring is.....

You cant get switches that size - although you could fit a dual box on it's end, and fit a 2 gang and 1 gang switch on top of each other.

 

[mottsy]

Thanks for that Lectrician,

The wiring appears in good order. (I'm not a sparks but feel confident at the simpler DIY tasks.) It's not the old rubber cable and does not seam to be degraded in any way. The house (originally built in 1955), was rewired at some stage but the old sockets, switches and pendants were left. Having had a look inside the only slight problem is that the earth, (obviously unconnected), has not been insulated, but I can easily remedy that with some earth sleave.

I have heard these "Dual Boxes" mentioned elsewhere on this site, but had not thought of your suggestion. Do you know if the dual boxes have the screw retainers, (the bits that the faceplate screws, screw into) at all four points on the compass? i.e. will I be able to screw the switches in if its up the "wrong way". (Hope that came out clear, I know what I mean!)

Thanks Again,

Mottsy

 

[Adam_151]

 

[mottsy]

Might be the way to go.

I wait and see if anyone knows of some obsure switch that might fit if not it could be a winner.

Thanks again,

Mottsy

 

[Har_vey]

Are you looking to replace with modern switches? Or something of similar style?

http://www.palesinstyle.com.au/electricswitches.htm

 

[Steve]

Are you looking to replace with modern switches? Or something of similar style?

http://www.palesinstyle.com.au/electricswitches.htm[/QUOTE] erm . . think twice before buying anything from this website, bearing in mind where you live in relation to where this site is based . . . .

 

[Har_vey]

A fair point, but I think if that's the kind of thing mottsy is interested in that he will be able to source them or similar, from a local wholesaler anyway.

 

[Steve]

http://www.palesinstyle.com.au/electricswitches.htm

lets hope he can find somewhere more local than there eh!

 

[Har_vey]

He might want his switches to be the wrong way up! You never know.

 

[mottsy]

I don't really care what style the switches are as long as it all looks neat and tidy when done.
When I eventually decorate, I will fit a normal 3 gang switch and fill in the remaining hole.
If the dual box does not fit properly would it be acceptable to put a piece of wood over the hole, (obviously this will be painted or varnished and made to look presentable), then sink a metal back box, or a plasterboard back box into it. Then connect a normal 3 gang switch? (It seems to a novice like me that it would be safe but though with all the regs that are talked about i had better check.)

Many thanks,

Mottsy.