Dimmer switch for bathroom

[AdamW]

I am aware that the usual way of fitting a dimmer switch for a bathroom is to mount it outside the room.

However, is there a way in which I could LEGALLY install a means of dimming and switching 12V halogen downlighters (IP44, in zones 2 and 3) from INSIDE the bathroom? Any switching to be fitted would be in zone 3.

I read here that "ALL LIGHT FITTINGS IN ZONE 3 HAVE NO SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS."

I am assuming this doesn't include switches.

I am all for safety and would not fit anything that contravenes regs, but I think it is odd that you can use a standard FCU in a bathroom but no-one seems to make IP-rated switches for bathroom use!

 

[securespark]

According to the IEE, if your light switch is in z3, it can be an ordinary plate switch with no requirements for protection.

However, there is a pull-cord dimmer on the market. See tlc or page 42 of latest paper catalogue.

whether it is suitable for SELV or not, i don't know.

 

[Engineer Lane]

I used the pull cord dimmer from TLC connected to a dimmable transformer, and then to 4 lv downlighters (ip65). It also has a line to trigger a timed extractor fan.

Paul

 

[AdamW]

How exactly do you operate the pull cord dimmer? Does it dim whilst you are holding the string in the down position, and stop when you release it?

 

[securespark]

Yes Adam.

Pull it and hold it and it will dim up an d down, like a touch dimmer. Sharp tug gives on/off just like conventional pullcord.