Light switch getting hot.

[chainsaw_masochist]

A few weeks ago my folks complained that their kitchen lights were continually flickering. On my next visit I switched off the light circuit at the consumer unit and removed the light switch in the kitchen. A couple of the switch terminals were slightly loose so I tightened these up, reconnected the switch, powered up and everything was fine.

Now they say that the switch itself has become very hot to touch and this has caused them some concern. Any ideas as to what might be causing this? Thanks for any help.

 

[ricicle]

The switch itself could be worn (the switch contact may have high resistance).It will be as well to replace for a good quality make such as MK, MEM, Crabtree.
If you are in England or Wales then this work is notifiable under Part P of the building regs

 

[JohnD]

If you're sure all the terminals are now tight, I'd guess wear and sloppy or eroded contacts.

Buy a nice new MK switch or other good make (I've recently tried cheapo ones and they don't "feel" good.

edited: Bah

 

[Taylortwocities]

If you are in England or Wales then this work is notifiable under Part P of the building regs

If you are replacing like for like, even in a kitchen, then this is NOT notifiable.

TTC

 

[ricicle]

If you are in England or Wales then this work is notifiable under Part P of the building regs

If you are replacing like for like, even in a kitchen, then this is NOT notifiable.

TTC

Are you sure about this TTC?Does that apply in bathrooms as well?
Sorry, I'm an industrial spark

 

[JohnD]

If you are replacing like for like, even in a kitchen, then this is NOT notifiable.

Just what I was goint to say! See http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2004/20043210.htm

SCHEDULE 2B
Regulation 12(5)



DESCRIPTIONS OF WORK WHERE NO BUILDING NOTICE OR DEPOSIT OF FULL PLANS REQUIRED


1. Work consisting of -


(a) replacing any socket-outlet, control switch or ceiling rose;

(b) replacing a damaged cable for a single circuit only;

(c) re-fixing or replacing enclosures of existing installation components, where the circuit protective measures are unaffected;

(d) providing mechanical protection to an existing fixed installation, where the circuit protective measures and current carrying capacity of conductors are unaffected by the increased thermal insulation.


(etc.)

 

[chainsaw_masochist]

Thank you very much for the advice, guys. I shall obtain a like-for-like MK switch as a replacement. Very interesting comments re Part P.

 

[securespark]

Just what I was goint to say!

Can I say it too? I hate feeling left out....

 

[Steve]

Buy a nice new MK switch or other good make (I've recently tried cheapo ones and they don't "feel" good.

What do you make of the new compact MK switch backs? I found it very fiddly, especially retrofitting the switch onto existing wiring.

 

[JohnD]

What do you make of the new compact MK switch backs? I found it very fiddly, especially retrofitting the switch onto existing wiring.

Yes, it did seem a bit tricky when the cores were short, especially when I had to turn one over and take then out again. But they have a nice soft "feel" and do not click loudly and stiffly like some cheap ones.