confused over light pull's

[isdoo]

Hi,

We require 2 light pulls (or maybe 3). One for upstairs main bathroom & one for downstairs WC.

Looking at screwfix, I am confused as to which I need - 6A, 50A etc.

The bathroom will have say 6 downlighters and an extractor fan (assume this can be own it's own pull cord, as can't see the point of it being on all the time, as two opening windows exist)

The cloakroom will have two downlighters and an extractor fan - no window, so this will need to come on with lights.

Thanks.

 

[RF Lighting]

Normally 5/6/10A for lighting circuits, and 40/45/50A switches for shower circuits.

 

[sparkwright]

6 amp pull cords.

The pull cords for the lights will be 6 amp single pole. These may be available as 10 amp also, which are fine. The switches only need to be one way (if one switch per room). 2 way switches would also do.

For the fan, if it's switched separately from the light, I would suggest a double pole 16 amp pull switch with optional neon indicator. Is there a neutral at the fan switch?

 

[isdoo]

Thanks.

So the 6A would be okay for the fans?

Not decided on the fans yet, so no idea on their power - still looking.

 

[sparkwright]

If the fan is to be totally seperate, I recommend a double pole switch. This means it will isolate both the live and neutral for maintenance. These tend to be rated at 16 amp. It would only need to be rated at 6 amp in truth.

A 6 amp single pole (isolates only live) would work on a fan, yet double pole isolation is more desirable.

Bathrooms fans are typically connected to the lighting circuit.

A timer fan activated by turning the light on is another alternative.

 

[securespark]

The fan in the windowless room should be triggered automatically everytime the room is used.

You could also use a triple pole pull cord for timer fans.

 

[OwainDIYer]

most 6A pull switches are unsuitable for isolation as there is no mechanical indication of on/off status.

40A shower switches have a little flag to show whether the switch is open or closed.

 

[securespark]

So do these :

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Images/Products/size_3/ASCS3PIF.JPG

 

[OwainDIYer]

I'm glad I said most. Hadn't seen them before. Always nice to learn something new.

The BG equivalent is about half the price
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/BG804.html

 

[securespark]

Have seen the BG ones in a wholesaler. Know they have a 10 year g'tee, but think the switch action is clunkier.

But fair point, half the price.