Good / bad practises - some comments / advice please

[Pickup]

Hi Folks,

I'm moving the kitchen to what was a bedroom so I've been taking out all the old wiring and whilst putting in new wallboxes I've have come across a couple of things that are different to what I've seen before so was looking for some comments ...

Lighting - the lighting ring main goes to each light switch (earths are tied together in a chocolate block connector (the neutrals are tied in a separte connector) within teh swith mounting box) with a third T&E cable running from the switch to ceiling rose. Previously I've seen the ring going to the ceiling rose and a feeding neutral to/from the switch. Is there any legislation or pros / cons to either approach (one 3 gang switch seems particularly "busy")??

In some faceplates the appropriate cores (eg earth with earth, neutral with neutral, live with live) are twisted together, in some only the earths are twisted together. Again pros / cons.

Downlighters - there are some in the existing kitchen (which is being turned into a study). I'm a bit concerned that there could be a fire risk becuase the loft insulation (glassfibre) has been laid over the downlighters. Is this OK, if not is there anything that I can do to make it OK - ie cut the insulation around the downlighter or raise it with some sort of frame?

Thanks

F

 

[wingcoax]

When you say cables tied together , how many?. As always photos are a good idea. Personally i still use the loop-in method as i was taught with only the switch wire going to the switch(smaller chasing). Down lighters do need space round them but cant remember exactly, think about 6inches.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Nothing wrong with the feeds (live and neutrals) being connected in the switchbox. Just so long as its done safely.

Downlights should not be just covered over by insulation. They will overheat and the lamps will not last long.
Most thermal insulation is fire-resistant, but not all.

You can get ready made boxes like these http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/JC94020.html
or just make a plasterboard box, or use a large terracotta plant pot
Then lay the insulation over the top

 

[conny]

Lights are not on a ring but a loop and usually do loop in the rose but can be done in the switch patress box.

The downlighters need to have the insulation removed and possibly fire retardant hoods fitted, someone else will probably correct me if I am wrong about the hoods.

By twisting do you mean those that aren't twisted are simply laid side by side in the connector?
Nothing wrong so long as all strands are securely held by the screw.

Damm! Wish I could type faster!