Only using 1 cable in twin and earth

[Dropkick]

I can't think of an issue with this but want to check.

I only need to run a live cable from a switch to a light then the neutral from the light to plug. The cable I have is twin and earth. Is it OK to only use 1 cable out of the 3 and just cover the ends of the 2 not being used ?

 

[endecotp]

A couple of thoughts;

1. You should connect the earth wire. So you’ll be using 2 out of 3.
2. It may be a good idea to avoid current flowing in a “triangular” route, because that can result in interference e.g. hum from loudspeakers. You haven’t described exactly what you’re doing; draw us a picture.

 

[FrodoOne]

I only need to run a live cable from a switch to a light then the neutral from the light to plug.

For "live cable" you may mean "Switched-Line Wire"!

What is meant by "the neutral from the light to plug"?

 

[ebee]

I have a picture in my head of what I think you might mean, that picture might be wrong though.
Taken as I see it then it is possible that the L is switched to on whilst the plug is left unplugged and the result could be the light still off and the bare N pin which can be touched is now made L thru the filament of the lamp or whatever, this would result in a potentially dangerous situation!
If you could show us a picture then we might realise that you mean something else.

 

[Taylortwocities]

I have a picture in my head of what I think you might mean, that picture might be wrong though.

Me too. Let me ask this deal breaker. Is it your intention to bring a neutral connection from a socket circuit to provide a neutral for the lighting circuit?

 

[333rocky333]

T and E is not ideal in a plug, however if you must, take L, (E) and N both to the switch first then L (E)and N from switch to light.
Alternatively light first then onto switch

 

[Murdochcat]

I think the OP needs to clarify what they mean or else we are all guessing

 

[Risteard]

T and E is not ideal in a plug, however if you must, take L, (E) and N both to the switch first then L (E)and N from switch to light.
Alternatively light first then onto switch

Completely impermissible in a plug.

 

[securespark]

Completely impermissible in a plug.

What is?

 

[Risteard]

What is?

T&E.

 

[plugwash]

The cable I have is twin and earth. Is it OK to only use 1 cable out of the 3 and just cover the ends of the 2 not being used ?

Most of the time using only one wire from a cable is an indication that you intend to do something that is at best going to be confusing to the next guy, and at worst is extremely dangerous.

I only need to run a live cable from a switch to a light then the neutral from the light to plug.

Live and Neutral *MUST* come from the same circuit. Furthermore if they pass through a plug and socket connection then under normal circumstances it needs to be the *same* plug and socket connection.

The reason is that if the neutral conductor is disconnected, while the live conductor remains connected then the neutral conductor can become live. People working on electrics except to have to isolate the circuit they are working on, but they don't expect to have to isolate other unrelated circuits. Similarly, people do not expect plugs to become live when they unplug them.