Mains Flex

[carlfb]

Morning All,

I have just took the plasterboard ceiling down in my porch to replace it and noticed the cable that is going to the outside lights through the cavity is mains 3 core flex as opposed to normal twin and earth. Are there any regulations with regards to this or is the flex perfectly allowable?

Cheers,

Carl

 

[Chri5]

It's ok, a bit cowboy, but as long as its rated for its load it is ok.

If it is black rubber flex then it is actually better for a semi external environment than te is.

 

[RMS]

Flexible cables are permitted by BS7671.

The regulations state flexible wiring should be of heavy duty type unless the risk of damage during installation and service, due to impact or other mechanical stresses, is low or has been minimised or protection against mechanical damage is provided.

Only you can be the judge of the above regarding your existing installation. I feel that what you have meets the requirements of BS7671.

 

[kai]

Some outside lights require a round flex in order to seal correctly at the cable entry gasket, twin and earth cannot seal through gaskets.
That's why the installer may have used round flex instead of twin and earth cable.