DIMMER SWITCH - WONT TURN LIGHTS OFF COMPLETELY

[Bungle1]

Please help, I've just replaced 2 standard plastic one-way on/off light switches with cheap metal dimmer jobbies from Argos (turn to switch on/off not push). I've noticed that even when switched off there appears to be a very small current going through bulbs, as light fittings are never totally off. One switch is feeding a standard 60W bulb, and the other is switching 3 x halogen bulbs. Original switches appear to be properly fitted, in a new-build house. Any help (in layman's language) would be greatly appreciated.

Kind regards

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Do the switches click when you get to the minimum?

 

[skenk]

There is normally a click to turn the switch off, does yours do this? How much were the switches?

 

[Bungle1]

Thanks for prompt responses guys! Switches DO click on and off.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Post a photo of the wiring, please.

 

[securespark]

Is the switch wiring the only wiring you've disturbed?

Do the lights switch off if you refit the old switches?

 

[Bungle1]

Please see attached picture - hope this helps! If I put original rocker switch back on, on/off fuction works fine, Weird?

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• Bungle1
• 22 Sep 2010
• 1

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[Bungle1]

STILL LOOKING FOR IDEAS. IS I WORTH TRYING A MORE EXPENSIVE / BRANDED SWITCH, PERHAPS ONE WITH A PUSH ON/OFF? IF SO, CAN ANYONE RECOMMEND A BRAND? MUST BE POLISHED CHROME![/i]

 

[Matmu1969]

STILL LOOKING FOR IDEAS. IS I WORTH TRYING A MORE EXPENSIVE / BRANDED SWITCH, PERHAPS ONE WITH A PUSH ON/OFF? IF SO, CAN ANYONE RECOMMEND A BRAND? MUST BE POLISHED CHROME![/i]

personally I would go with old faithful's like MK. Best advice is to go to an electrical wholesalers and ask their advice. B&Q and Hombase etc are usually ok for this stuff, but unless you go in the week and ask a retired tradesman type, you aint gonna get the advice you need!

 

[sparkwright]

Please see attached picture - hope this helps! If I put original rocker switch back on, on/off fuction works fine, Weird?

Untitled

• Bungle1
• 22 Sep 2010
• 1

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Please don't leave all that exposed copper on the live wires like that on the new switch. Make sure the wires are inserted fully into the terminals, but without screwing into the insulation.