outdoor light

[madge1]

Hi

Possibly a silly question but would this http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/SMZV700.html be okay for a switch for an outdoor light at home. The existing switch is a single one, normal sized....and it would just mean the light would be on in the dark in winter - we live in the country so street lamps are non existant.

ta

 

[Spark123]

Sounds OK as long as your outside light is within the wattage range for the compatable light types or the adapor used.
You will probably need at least a 25mm backbox for it.

 

[madge1]

25mm backbox? Does this mean a) I probably can't use the one there, and b) I'll need to chisel out a hole?

The light shouldn't be a problem...

pete

 

[Spark123]

I don't know, it is one of those jobs that you can't say till you have the parts in front of you and you know what is already there.

 

[madge1]

I've since realised (being a fool and all) that it's a 2 gang switch that I'm trying to replace... so would that mean that http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/SMZV215.html is my only option? And that I can't use a CFL with the security side of it, but i can on the manual side? Am i reading that right?

thanks

 

[JohnD]

I use CFLs with both those types of switches, have done for about 5 years without one going wrong.

The manufacturers don't recommend it. You might be less lucky than me.

They will not fit in an ordinary switch box, so unless yours is already well-recessed, you will need to chip it out and mortar in a new one. Or you could use a deep plastic surface box, which might look unsightly, and chip it out next time you are recorating.

The wires behind may be too short if you go over to a surface box.