A fan isolator switch is typically used with an extractor to facilitate the isolation of the fan, whether it is for the purpose of repair or maintenance.
It is usually installed outside the room. You will find many leading brands offer high-quality fan isolator switches in collections of many colors, shades, functionalities, and finishes.
You also need to know the difference between an isolator and a circuit breaker. The main difference between the two is that the isolator disconnects the circuit in an Off-load situation, whereas a circuit breaker disconnects the circuit in an On-load situation. However, both isolator and circuit breakers work on similar principles, such as the disconnection to isolate specific parts of the primary system’s electrical circuit.
Why You Need To Hire A Certified Professional?
For any electrical works, it is always recommended that you first consult with a licensed professional. Similarly, the installation of a fan isolator switch also requires the expertise of a professional as it is a critical job and requires technical know-how. Failing to properly perform the procedure could lead to electrical incidents, thus, it is always smarter to hire a professional for the installation of any electrical system, including fan isolator switches.
However, to ensure that your hired professional is performing the task correctly, you need to have a basic understanding of how the installation process works. So, in case you want to find out how a fan isolator switch gets installed by electrical professionals, then you’ve come to the right place. Let us find out the steps that technicians use to install a fan isolator switch, as well as some standard safety instructions.
Common Fan Isolator Switch Installation Procedure
Always seek the expertise of a trained electrical professional. Do not begin with fan isolator switch installing by yourself. Commonly, here’s how the experts perform fan isolator switch installation:
- Before starting the installation, they must suitably isolate the mains supply.
- They utilize the correct cable type with an appropriate rating.
- They take out the existing switch or socket from the wall (if you wish to replace it).
- Remove dust and plaster debris from within the wall box.
- Each switch or socket will have its own terminal layout; therefore experts check the terminal connections’ location carefully before wiring.
- If the switches and sockets have a plastic gasket, place it between the accessory and the wall. Position the gasket over the wires before connecting them to the accessory.
- Link the new switch or socket and ensure that the copper conductor(s) only reach the terminals. Electricians check whether the terminal screws are clamping on the cables’ insulation or not. When using stranded or multicolored cables, they ensure no stray strands outside the terminals after tightening them. If needed, they strip and trim the cord suitably.
Please note: Metal decorative switches and sockets need to be earthed correctly. It is achieved by linking the fixed earth wire to the earth terminal on the switch or socket and then linking a short wire length from this terminal to the earth terminal placed in the wall box.
Safety Instructions:
- A qualified person should install the fan isolator switch as per the latest editions of the Buildings Regulations and IEE Wiring Regulations (BS7671).
- The 3 pole fan isolator switch can be installed in bathrooms but ensure that it is out of reach of those who use the shower or bath. Get guidance from experts following the latest version of the IEE wiring regulations (BS 7671).
- As a check, to minimize fire risk, confirm that there is no crossing of the rated current from the electrician.
- For mounting a metal back box, the following minimum box depths should be considered:
- 16mm with a front plate of 9mm or more depth
- 35mm with a front plate that has less than 9mm depth
- The back box for items with front plates less than 9mm deep should be placed 6 to 10mm sub-flush to the wall surface.
- It would help if you disposed of packaging and product through standard refuse facilities after their life ends.
Technical and electrical professionals can quickly help you understand the workings while helping you pick the best products; they also offer their electrical installations expertise. To ensure you have a safe fitting and operational experience, always consult an electrical professional!
