single switch to double

[learningcurve]

Hello, thanks for being here as I've picked up lots of tips along the way

I have recently boarded my loft and wish to utilise it for storage (i live in a flat)

I am currently plugging in an extension lead every time i go up and down which is not good

I have a small utility room with a single light fitting on the ceiling, with a single switch inside the door

I opened up the ceiling rose and discovered its the first in the loop and therefore numerous wires

I want to be able to install a double switch in order that i can run a light in the loft

from what i have gained so far i will need to run a wire from the existing ceiling rose, QUESTION: Which one?

then what do i need to do with regards to the switch?

Please answer in step by step if possible please and thank you in advance

 

[steptoe]

The easiest way would probably to have a completely separate switch in the loft for your loft light.

It's quite easily do-able, what are your diy skills like,?

How confident are you about doing this.?

 

[learningcurve]

The easiest way would probably to have a completely separate switch in the loft for your loft light.

It's quite easily do-able, what are your diy skills like,?

How confident are you about doing this.?

Steptoe, thank you for replying

my skills are average but I'm game on to set myself a task and I always switch off mains first

im quite able to follow step by step instructions 

 

[steptoe]

First thing is we need to get an admin or mod to allow you to post pictures, can you take a picture of the connections at the ceiling rose you will be taking your power from.? 

 

[learningcurve]

Yes i have that with my iPhone will try to post

 

[learningcurve]

 

[steptoe]

Ok, your new cable should have brown, blue and earth, connect brown to the middle with the 3reds,  blue with the 2blacks, sleeve the earth and connect to the earth terminal,

What are the terminal markings on your new switch,? Picture,?

Remember,

TURN OFF THE POWER FIRST,!!!!

 

[learningcurve]

First thing is we need to get an admin or mod to allow you to post pictures, can you take a picture of the connections at the ceiling rose you will be taking your power from.? 

Steptoe thank you

i am heading over to bq to buy the cable and a double switch

 

[steptoe]

Ok, if you are putting a separate switch in the loft,  which is probably easier, you need a 1 gang 1 way switch, a 25or32mm plastic single surface back box, some 1.0 or 1.5mm cable, some clips, and a couple of 5 or 15amp connectors, and a few inches of earth sleeving. 

 

[Murdoch]

Steptoe, thank you for replying

my skills are average but I'm game on to set myself a task and I always switch off mains first

im quite able to follow step by step instructions 

And where will you be getting those from?

 

[steptoe]

And where will you be getting those from?

Tbh, I don't have a problem explaining to someone how to wire a loft light,

I think it's one of those very do-able diy electrical tasks.

I explained to my brother how to do it, and until recently he struggled fitting a 13a plug,,,,

Diyers will do it regardless,  so we should try and help them do it somewhere near right.

 

[Murdoch]

DIYers don't have to worry about earthing  and bonding then? 

People think we are expensive doing what they think as  "unnecessary" work - whereas ask we are doing is doing it by the book and the regs.

Just saying

 

[learningcurve]

Murdoch, it does seem as though you're actually against people asking for help? 

Im pretty certain you're not qualified in everything and at some point would ask someone for advice or help??!!

youve actually succeeded in making me not want to participate in this forum any longer your attitude is rotten 

step toe thank you for everything you are a decent welcoming person, Murdoch should take a leaf out of your book

 

[Murdoch]

Murdoch, it does seem as though you're actually against people asking for help? 

Im pretty certain you're not qualified in everything and at some point would ask someone for advice or help??!!

youve actually succeeded in making me not want to participate in this forum any longer your attitude is rotten 

step toe thank you for everything you are a decent welcoming person, Murdoch should take a leaf out of your book

Try getting a solicitor to give away his or her time for free!

 

[ProDave]

Learning Cuerve, don't run away, I am sure Steptoe will be back to finish off his help.

Some people just don't like giving help, but we are not all like that.

 

[learningcurve]

Learning Cuerve, don't run away, I am sure Steptoe will be back to finish off his help.

Some people just don't like giving help, but we are not all like that.

Pro Dave, I hear you and you're right, some people are just selfish and self opinionated

a solicitor normally gives 30 minutes consultation for free, kindness isn't a weakness

 

[ProDave]

Try getting a solicitor to give away his or her time for free!

If you don't want to give your time away for free, stop wasting it on a forum.

 

[Murdoch]

If you don't want to give your time away for free, stop wasting it on a forum.

For fellow sparks - which what this is for is no problem.....

 

[Apache]

Well done to @steptoe for being so helpful.

I have annotated your diagram - bear in mind I am a DIYer. You need to take your supply from the live and neutral loops - I have marked them with a yellow star.

The easiest way is likely to be to take that cable to the switch then on to the light.

 

[steptoe]

Thanks @Apache yes, that is correct,  @learningcurve sorry, I've been busy, are you intending to change your existing switch, or add another switch for the loft light,? Adding a switch is much simpler to explain.