extractor fan isolator switch

[akist]

I have installed a fan in the utility room because building control have asked me for it. The fan comes on with the lights and has a timer overrun. I have put a double wall switch on the wall, one button is the lights + fan, the other is fan on/off (disconnects the fan's permanent live).

The fan (manrose) does not operate unless the permanent live is on (regardless of the switched live).

But. Do I need an isolator switch instead?

 

[blup]

You seem to be describing an isolation switch, but it can be checked with a multimeter

 

[EFLImpudence]

I wouldn't call that an isolator switch but anyway an isolator switch is not a requirement in the regulations.

 

[JohnD]

Do I need an isolator switch instead?

You need an isolation switch as well.

The idea is that it disconnects all three wires so that you can safely repair or replace the fan without having to turn the lights ot.

 

[EFLImpudence]

You need an isolation switch as well.

Not if he doesn't want one.

The idea is that it disconnects all three wires so that you can safely repair or replace the fan without having to turn the lights ot.

Rubbish.

 

[JohnW2]

You need an isolation switch as well.

There is no 'need' (or 'requirement') for any local 'isolator' - but, as you go on to say, some people favour them because ....

The idea is that it disconnects all three wires so that you can safely repair or replace the fan without having to turn the lights ot.

... but that is their view/choice

 

[JohnW2]

..... duplicate post deleted

 

[johnny2007]

For the past 10 years my local BC has been insisting on fan isolators.
Despite some electricians moaning about it, they all fit the isolators as standard to avoid any discussion with BC.
Figure that out.

 

[EFLImpudence]

For the past 10 years my local BC has been insisting on fan isolators.

I bet they don't know why?

 

[akist]

OK now I understand, thanks for the explanations. I am going to leave it as is then.

 

[JohnW2]

For the past 10 years my local BC has been insisting on fan isolators. ... Despite some electricians moaning about it, they all fit the isolators as standard to avoid any discussion with BC.
Figure that out.

It seems fairly common but, despite many attempts, we have never been capable of usefully "figuring it out". It's clearly just the view of some BCOs, even though it is not an "actual regulatory requirement" (not even an actual requirement of BS 7671, which itself is not 'mandatory'), but few people seem inclined to attempt to challenge or 'appeal against' their decision.

 

[johnny2007]

It seems fairly common but, despite many attempts, we have never been capable of usefully "figuring it out". It's clearly just the view of some BCOs, even though it is not an "actual regulatory requirement" (not even an actual requirement of BS 7671, which itself is not 'mandatory'), but few people seem inclined to attempt to challenge or 'appeal against' their decision.

The idea is to keep them sweet.
How difficult and costly is to fit a fan isolator?
A small price to pay to avoid further arguments.

 

[Murdochcat]

For the past 10 years my local BC has been insisting on fan isolators.
Despite some electricians moaning about it, they all fit the isolators as standard to avoid any discussion with BC.
Figure that out.

Never pick a fight with your BCO

My BCO have odd interpretations about smoke alarms - just accept what they want is the easiest approach

 

[Murdochcat]

Isolators for extractor fans in rentals is never a good idea, as most tenants just switch them off

 

[EFLImpudence]

Never pick a fight with your BCO

My BCO have odd interpretations about smoke alarms - just accept what they want is the easiest approach

Heaven forbid anyone should put them right.