Changing an exterior wall light, is it a job for a specialist?

NIMAN

I am thinking of changing a few exterior wall lights, and was wondering how big a job it is?

Considering electricity is involved, is it best to call in a spark to do it? Seems expensive, as I had one came in to change a few interior ones and cost me €40 for about 30mins work.

Is it a job a DIYer could do, or best left to the pro's for the advantage of not killing yourself!!?

2011

NIMAN wrote: »

I am thinking of changing a few exterior wall lights, and was wondering how big a job it is?

Assuming that the existing lights are wired properly this is not complicated.
Here are a few tips:
1) Buy a good quality light fitting. Cheap and nasty lights (such as Woodies lights) can be quite difficult to connect. Frequently the connectors are too small. Buy the lights at a proper electrical wholesaler such as Eurosales, NEW or Kellighers.

2) As the light fittings are to be installed outdoors it would be best if they are at least IP65. This is a measurement of how resistant the units are to the ingress of moisture and dust.

3) Remember you will need a hammer action drill.

4) Many outside lights suffer from corrosion, so it might be better think plastic, powder coated or stainless steel.

5) Electricity is not cheap! Consider an energy efficient lamp.

6) If you are installing a sensor light pay the money and get a good one. If not it will drive you nuts. I would recommend Stinel.

Considering electricity is involved, is it best to call in a spark to do it?

That depends on how competent you are.
If in doubt employ the services of an electrician.

Don't take any chances!

NIMAN

Thanks for that info.

Why do you see IP44 lights described as 'outdoor'. Is that the minimum requirement for outdoor use?

2011

NIMAN wrote: »

Thanks for that info.

Why do you see IP44 lights described as 'outdoor'. Is that the minimum requirement for outdoor use?

I don't have the regulations in front of me.
From memory lights have to be at least IP54 to comply with the Irish regulations (ET101:2008).

Other countries have different regulations and will accept IP44 for outdoor use. Regardless of the regulations, my advice would be to install at least IP65.

Bpmull

It shouldn't really be a big job. You just need to know which mcb is working the lights turn that off and make sure the cable is dead before you start doing anything. And make sure you've told everyone to leave off the mcb while your working on it normally some insulation tape over it does the trick. But if it's your one house chances are no one will be at the board.

Then the connection make sure you have the cables striped enough so there is no insulation going into the connector but not so much that there is an inch of exposed copper cable out of the connector. If there is a few light you will probably have a feed in and loop onto the next light so make sure you connect them well they already will be connected in. Then just make sure you have a good tight connection the tighter you screw the screws the better on the connectors. It's fairly common sense basic stuff but then I suppose that depend on how much you know what's basic to some people is complicated to others.

Stoner

NIMAN wrote: »

Thanks for that info.

Why do you see IP44 lights described as 'outdoor'. Is that the minimum requirement for outdoor use?

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/ip-ingress-protection-d_452.html