Simple electrical question

UnworthyBean · 19 Feb 2018 at 12:41

I've got two or three Ikea lights that all have their own plug and switch. If I wanted to shove them all on the same plug and switch, whats the easiest way to do it?

Can either use the existing switch and shove a junction box after it or replace pretty much the whole lot with some other solution?

Mr.E. · 19 Feb 2018 at 12:44

Wouldnt it be easier using an adaptor or extension ?

Sirrel Squirrel · 19 Feb 2018 at 12:47

Triple socket extension lead?

UnworthyBean · 19 Feb 2018 at 12:49

Should've mentioned I did consider that. It's going down the back of a bookcase and ideally not enough room to shove the extension in there.

My logic was if I could get it done like this, it wouldn't add bulk and just the switch could be mounted in an easy to access place.

paintguy · 19 Feb 2018 at 15:00

I'd be concerned that the existing switch may only be rated to carry the load of 1 light and you'd be asking it to carry triple that if you went with your first idea.

samcat · 19 Feb 2018 at 16:02

paintguy said:
I'd be concerned that the existing switch may only be rated to carry the load of 1 light and you'd be asking it to carry triple that if you went with your first idea.

Non issue, as the standard for light switches is 10amp @ 250volts so can switch 2500 watts before it becomes the weak point.

Huge non issue if using LED bulbs....

Double check your cable rating as well:
http://www.lightwiring.co.uk/lighti...-cables/twin-and-earth-cable-current-ratings/

1.5mm cable, if just cable then its reference method is C, so 20 amps.

Non issue, you will be fine.

Mr.E. · 19 Feb 2018 at 16:03

What about a switched extension lead ? Plug the lights in on top of the book case and run one cable down the back.

paintguy · 19 Feb 2018 at 17:22

samcat said:
Non issue, as the standard for light switches is 10amp @ 250volts so can switch 2500 watts before it becomes the weak point.

Cool, didn't realise there was a standard amongst manufacturers for inline switches. Learn something every day

Millwall.FC · 19 Feb 2018 at 20:59

paintguy said:
Cool, didn't realise there was a standard amongst manufacturers for inline switches. Learn something every day

That's because there is not, more than likely these lamps have a 0.75mm flex and an 5/6 amp inline switch or possibly even less, never make assumptions.

paintguy · 19 Feb 2018 at 21:50

Millwall.FC said:
That's because there is not, more than likely these lamps have a 0.75mm flex and an 5/6 amp inline switch or possibly even less, never make assumptions.

I see you missed my sarcasm. I wasn't the one making the assumption.

samcat · 20 Feb 2018 at 08:08

Ahhh, that will teach me to read the full thread... That standard is (apparently) for wall switches, not inline switches. :/

For op's setup I would probably go with the KISS (KEEP IT SIMPLE, STUPID) listed above if there is room. Mains extension 4 way, plug them all into that and switch on/off at the wall. Simples, no messing with wiring etc. If you want to make it cleaner in the future you can, but I bet once its done you will just forget about it.

R.C.Anderson · 20 Feb 2018 at 12:39

If it was me, I would probably do something like this:

Disconnect plugs from lights & instead wire together in something like this: https://www.screwfix.com/p/5a-4-terminal-standard-junction-box-white/8906d
Attach additional wire with a plug on the end into the junction box
Plug into socket, and you now have control of the lights from the single switch on the socket.

Obviously you'll need to make sure that the power rating of the lights is acceptable for the junction box, and any additional wires/plugs you add, but if they're 3xLED lights (as most Ikea lights are), it shouldn't be an issue.