I'm replacing an old light fitting with a new spotlight, but when I removed the old fitting I found 2/3 red cables (live I assume) and 2/3 black (neutral), and no sign of an earth cable. The light switch however, has one red, one black, and an earth cable.
The new fitting must be earthed according to the installation instructions, so unless I come across an earth at the ceiling guess they will have to go back to Homebase, but not sure why there would be an earth at the switch and none at the ceiling ?
I read in other posts that no earth on the lighting circuit is common in older houses, my house must have been built early 1970s, so not sure if that is 'old' in electrical installation speak.
I also read I can use double insulated fittings, or plastic ones I guess, but would prefer the metal ones.
Would welcome confirmation of anything above fron an expert.
The new fitting must be earthed according to the installation instructions, so unless I come across an earth at the ceiling guess they will have to go back to Homebase, but not sure why there would be an earth at the switch and none at the ceiling ?
I read in other posts that no earth on the lighting circuit is common in older houses, my house must have been built early 1970s, so not sure if that is 'old' in electrical installation speak.
I also read I can use double insulated fittings, or plastic ones I guess, but would prefer the metal ones.
Would welcome confirmation of anything above fron an expert.