Lighting circuits again

[ultimatehandyman]

There are three methods of wiring lighting circuits that I am aware of, one is to take a circuit wire from the CU to the first ceiling rose and then onto the next with a wire leading to the light switch, for the switched live, I think this is called the loop in method.

The other method is similar but uses a junction box with another wire leading to the light itself, but I don't think this wall satisfy the electrical regs as the junction box would not be accessable on downstairs rooms?

The third method is slowly beginning to look favourable to me, this is where the circuit wire is taken to the first switch, a circuit wire then runs to the next switch etc. and the switched live goes directly to the light, all three Neutrals are terminated into a terminal connector in the switch and insulated with tape. I am not sure of the name of this method?

All this came about when I was wiring a light fitting from Ikea, the damn thing had 6 Lives and 6 Neutrals, If I had to connect this to a ceiling rose with 9 more wires it would of been almost impossible, that is whay I am in favour of the last method that I mentioned.

Your opinions on this would be much appreciated.

Thanks

chez

[tim'll fix it]

I've seen all three. Dont know any names.

The third is used where you have a lot of wall lights as there is little room in the back of them for extra connections.

[Stoday]

The third method needs a deeper box. No need to tape up the choc terminals.

[markysparky]

It's a grey area about junction boxes under floors for downstairs circuits as they still can be accessed by means of lifting a floorboard. But with laminate flooring etc, this can be debatable. It's flatroofed ceilings which junction boxes should be avoided for obvious reasons.

Looping between switches is extremely awkward when it comes to 2 way and intermediate switches. Plus if it is a 3 or 4 gang switch then there would be too many wires to mess on with. But I do normally use this method for loft and shed lights normally. Which is why the loop system is is always favoured as it is the quickest and easiest method to use. It's also handier to have a perm live at the light if ever you need to install another light, extractor fan (you get the picture) at a later date.

[ultimatehandyman]

Thanks Guys,

I now have some good and bad points for both methods.

I guess it is probably good to use the easiest method for which ever light you are fitting.

Thanks

chez