Mend > Switches and Sockets

neon indicator of shower switch indicator stays on?

I have just replaced a shower isolator switch but the neon indicator light is stayying on. The old switch had two connections for two earth wires the new one does not. There is a screw connection on the switch unit that holds the switch, should I conect an earth wire to that even though its plastic?

My loft wiring that connects to the switch has two earth (as mentioned) two red and two black wires. I first copied the connections as they were in the old switch but as the neon light stayed on I reversed the positions of the black and red wires (i.e. 1: red at front "reverse" 2: black at the front etc).

I am a little worried that as the indicator stays on it means that the supply is continuous and could overheat and catch fire even when pull cord states off?

Please help as I want to fix this a.s.a.p

Peter, Belfast.
October 2008

D.I.Y, Switches and Sockets Switch Replaced Light

Some new isolators are lit on the input (to indicate a live unit) and the indicator shows this with the light on permanent. If you are sure the feed is connected to the "IN" and the "OUT" goes to the unit then this status is o.k.

Jim Rutherford
October 2008

Just wired the red and black wires on the left side of switch to the right side of the switch and now the Neon light is on when on and off when off. Thanks Richard.

Peter, Belfast
October 2008

The Neon is on the OUTPUT side. Sounds like you've reversed the in and out cables during the installation - I did the same recently to an isolator switch to my immersion heater (silly me). Just swap the in and out cables and ensure the Earth connections are made properly.

If in doubt consult a certified person. Good luck.

Richard Buxton
October 2008