Mend > Switches and Sockets

Shower pull neon comes on when shower pull is off and vice versa???

I have just replaced a shower isolator switch. I replaced all wiring the same but when the mechanical pull switch is on the neon and shower are off. When I pull the cord to the off position the neon comes on and shower is powered.

I checked the wiring.....the SUPPLY wires have a brown, blue and yellow/green......I connected these to the L (brown) N (blue) on the FEED/IN of the switch. Also the Earth to the earth connectors.

The SHOWER wires are the same colours and I attached these the same as above but to the LEAD/OUT on the switch.

Can anyone clarify if this is correct or not as it is driving me wild. Also, is it safe to use this way as it seems to work OK.

Thanks in advance.

Jason
August 2009

D.I.Y, Switches and Sockets Off Vice Versa

The little flag in the switch that says ON & OFF is properly called an annunciator - so I learned in my apprenticeship in 1962.

From what you say the switch appears to be working perfectly but the annunciator has got its knickers in a twist and is showing the wrong condition - quite how and why is a mystery - if it were my shower switch I would not bother about it until I wished to sell the house. Any safety implications are likely to be very minor - until someone is electrocuted dead of course.

You might get a replacement switch if you're worried about it - I believe the UK regulations for electrical wiring require a certificated person make repairs of this sort in "wet" areas.

Peccavi
August 2009

The mechanical indicator, usually red to show on, and the word "off" to mean off, rotates as you click the switch on and off. It sounds like this has been assembled in the wrong position. It has no bearing on the operation of the switch and should be perfectly safe (though EXTREMELY annoying LOL)

rob
August 2009