Lighting Problem

[jimjambo]

Hi,

Don't know if anyone can help me?
The other day whilst putting the lights on in the kitchen, most the downstairs lights that were turned on flickered, dimmed and went off. A while later they all worked again. Although when it happened a second time they have not come back on.
I'm not very electrically minded but have checked the fusebox and the fuse is ok as 2 lights on the ring still work.
Anyone have any ideas? Does it sound like a short circuit or earthing problem?
Thanks,
J.

 

[dingbat]

Does it sound like a short circuit or earthing problem?

No. The 'earth' in a circuit is properly known as the circuit protective conductor (cpc) and that's what it's there for. An earthing problem would either cause fuses to blow or leave parts unintentionally live. The fuse or ciurcuit breaker provides overload and short circuit protection and if you had a problem of this nature the fuse would blow.

What you have there, by the sound of it, is a continuity problem, with continuity likely being disturbed when you changed the lamps. In other words, one or more loose connections. Have a read of the 'For Reference' thread at the top of the Electric UK index page to see how lighting circuits work, but don't start probing about unless you have the means to test - a reliable voltage indicator or multimeter. If you don't have this kit then you should consider calling in a spark.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

You don't need an instrument with which to probe in order to check that all the screws are tight in the ceiling roses.

'tis as well to use an insulated screwdriver though, JIC the lights have been wired oddly, and some of them are live even though you've turned them off at the CU.

When you've got them working again, turn them all on, and then check which ones go out when you turn off the supply, then you'll know for future reference.

BTW - lighting circuits are not rings.

 

[jimjambo]

Thanks for the help guys - appreciated.....
J.

 

[jimjambo]

Thanks for the help guys - appreciated.....
J.