Tag: Electricity

Lighting plays an important role in the design of any room, especially a multifunctional space like a living room. Not only is it used to illuminate a space and promote functionality, but it can also create a certain ambiance and elevate the living room décor. Yet, despite such an important role, lighting still remains one of the most neglected design elements. Something as simple as wall lights can completely transform your space and give it a really cool look. If you want to beautify your living room and accentuate its features, using these wall light ideas as design inspiration.

How to choose a living room lighting scheme

1. Layers: First things first, you need to make sure that your living room has an appropriate, layered lighting scheme. Installing several sources of lights, including wall lights, will provide you with a balanced lighting scheme and a harmonious ambiance that exudes comfort, style and functionality.
2. Ambient: Your space should have a general source of light that will illuminate the entire space. This type of lighting is also called ambient lighting. For instance, a stylish pendant or a chandelier can not only work as a show stopping feature in the room, but also as general lighting.
3. Task: Your living room should also have task lighting that will illuminate specific areas and provide you with focused light necessary for performing tasks, such as reading or working.
4. Accent: Accent lights is the last layer of lighting that your living room should have. These lights are used to create a dramatic effect and illuminate a decorative item or they themselves may work as embellishments. Incorporating all of these types of lighting will fill your living room with a stunning glow, support its different purposes and enable you to enjoy your space to the fullest.

How to choose the right wall lights

The purpose of the lighting will determine what kind of wall lights you should get.

• Ambient light: Go with wall fixtures with translucent glass lamps, as they will illuminate your space with a diffuse glow while also embellishing your living room.
• Task light: Try a wall sconce as it provides a more focused glow

Number, strength & position

The number of ceiling lights you have will affect how many wall lights you’ll need in your living room. The position of your living room wall lights is yet another factor to have in mind when buying them. Since wall lights are typically placed at eye level, you need to pick the size and style that will work well when set against the background.

Style

When it comes to style, you should go with wall lights that fit in the general design of your living room. For instance, if you have a modern living room, you should go with a simple, sleek design with clear lines that will fit into the minimalist nature of contemporary style. On the other hand, iron fixtures are a much better choice for an industrial living room. The design and style of your wall lights is as important as their purpose because it will enable you to use them as stylish embellishments and create a cohesive look in your living room.

Wall lights & atmosphere

Lighting can have a major effect on your living room, its style and overall atmosphere. When installing wall lights, you should consider what you want to achieve. They can be used as both task and accent lights, helping you create completely different effects. Before implementing them to your space, you should consider how they will work with other lights. You should also consider whether you want to use them to enhance the functionality of your living room or create a particular visual effect. These decisions will greatly influence what type of wall lights you should buy and the way you’ll use them in your living room.

Another important factor to have in mind when installing additional lighting fixtures is whether there is a functioning electricity connection in your living room. You may need to install additional lighting switches or solve certain electricity problems before installing new wall lights. This will prevent any electricity-related accident and damage, so it’s an essential step that you shouldn’t skip. Of course, if you’re not experienced in dealing with electrical installations, it’s advisable that you call in an experienced professional.

Creative ideas for installing wall lights

Wall lights are simple details that offer a world of creative ideas that can help you elevate your living room décor and create a stylish, elegant ambience. If you want to create an artsy effect, you can use these fixtures to illuminate your artwork. These wall lights should be subtle yet impactful, with a strong glow that will accentuate your paintings. For a similar effect, you can use them to illuminate a collection of decorative embellishments. Placing them a bit lower and closer to the collection will accentuate details while the position will create an unusual visual appeal.

Stunning wall lights can be used as stylish decorations that can stand out on their own. You can pair up two wall lights and place them right next to each other on an empty wall. This way, you’ll let the style and design of the lights come into focus, creating a strong, dramatic effect. Furthermore, if you like this idea of using multiple identical wall fixtures, you can line them up approximately eight to ten feet from one another for a stunning vibe. If your living room has a dark, empty corner, a wall light will give it a completely different dimension. Placing wall fixtures in opposite living room corners can make the entire room seem wider.

The way you use wall lights with other lighting fixtures can also create an enticing ambiance in your living room. You can match wall lights with pendants and lamps to create a harmonious, cohesive appeal. On the other hand, mismatching them can also create a beautiful effect, fill your space with diversity and give it an authentic character.

Wall lights might seem like simple, barely noticeable elements, but they can actually help you create a real wow effect in your living room.

How many DIYers does it take to change a light bulb? One, maybe two with the other one to assist. But when it comes to wiring a light switch, you’ll need to work with a pro to get the job right safely.

Still, it’s good to know what to expect when a licensed electrician comes to wire a light switch in your home. Whether you’re updating your bathroom lighting or switching to a new set of lights, learning the basics of electrical work is essential.

So, how do you wire a light switch? Or rather, how do the professionals do it? Keep reading to learn more.

Australian laws surrounding wiring a light switch 

Light switch wiring in Australia and other electrical work requires licences. Your electrician must also give you a certificate proving their work complies with local laws.

Next, you’ll need permission from your local council. While not all electric jobs may need permits, it’s best to check! Resources like Standards Australia and the Housing Industry Association have details on electrical installations and wiring rules. Your state’s WorkSafe site will also have lists of rules specific to your area.

Safety comes first when figuring out how to wire a light switch in Australia. After all, faulty electrical wiring is a fire hazard and may cause electrocution. This precaution is so crucial that in Queensland, you could face up to AUD 600,000 in fines and five years in prison if you do electrical wiring yourself. 

Safety precautions when needing lighting and electrical work

Don’t work on switches and wires on your own. When supervising your electrician or tradie, make sure you observe safety measures. These include:

• Turning off the power before you start
• Using protective gear (e.g. rubber gloves)
• Using insulated tools (e.g. a wooden ladder)
• Ensuring access to fire extinguishers and first aid kits
• Never do it yourself; consult a licensed electrician

Tools and materials: What you’ll need

Here’s what a licensed electrician will need to wire a light switch:

• Safety gloves
• Safety glasses
• Pliers
• Utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Screwdriver
• Multimeter voltage tester
• Wooden ladder
• Wire strippers
• Light switch (standard light switch, two-way, or dimmer switch)

Cables and connectors (as needed): You can find the right size and type of Clipsal light switch wiring at hardware stores.

How to wire a light switch 

Now that the materials are ready, it’s time to begin! Here are the steps you may expect a professional electrician to follow when wiring a light switch in your home.

Step 1: Cut off the power

All electrical work starts with turning off your main power source. This keeps your electrician (and you) safe during the process. Your electrician should have a multimeter to ensure all circuits are switched off. While you’re with an electrician, you could also ask about installing a circuit breaker, if you don’t have one already.

Step 2: Remove the cover and switch

The electrician will then loosen the screws and pull the switch away from the wall. Do note that the light switch will still be attached via its wires.

Step 3: Inspect the wiring

Next, it’s time to inspect the wiring. The electrician will use an electrical tester to identify live wires and check if they are insulated or bare. There are usually three wires attached to a switch: a hot black wire, a neutral white wire, and a ground copper wire.

It’s important to inspect the wiring to see if they are long enough for the new switch. Otherwise, your electrician will need to strip some of the insulation.

Step 4: Disconnect the old wiring

After inspection, the electrician will detach the wires using a screwdriver. If the switch has push-in connections, a little push with a screwdriver can release the wires from the assembly. Once it’s freed, the electrician will discard the old switch.

Step 5: Connect the new wires

Connecting the new wires can get tricky. That’s why it’s good to call in the pros when you need to change a light fitting in Australia.

During this step, the electrician will ensure that the wires are all matched and everything is wired correctly.

Step 6: Install the new light switch

Now it’s time for switch assembly.

Each wire should have 1/2–3/4 inch of wire exposed and bent into a hook. This will wrap around the screws on the switch. If the end of the wire is frayed, the electrician will trim it before wrapping it clockwise around a screw on the switch. They’ll do this on the black wire, then again on the white and copper wires.

Next, the electrician will tighten the screws and check all connections to make sure everything is snug.

The type of light switch can also affect how it is installed:

• For standard light switches, the electrician will use loop-in wiring. They’ll connect a cable to each terminal on the switch, wire it, and then attach the faceplate.
• For two-way light switches, they’ll loop the cables through one terminal and then another before securing it and attaching the faceplate. They’ll likely use diagrams for wiring a two way light switch.
• For dimmer switches, there should be two terminals for the live wires; one labelled “L” and another with a neutral symbol. Both wires will be connected to their terminal points, then wrapped with electrical tape so that no copper is left exposed. Exposed copper will cause short circuits, so your electrician needs to be very careful.

Step 7: Replace the switch plate and do a quality inspection

Once all the wiring is done, the electrician will reattach the switch plate and screw it in. Then, you can turn the power back on and test your new light switch.

Don’t forget to inspect your electrician’s work and ask for the necessary certificates for the wiring.

How to hire an electrician

In Australia, even simply connecting a light switch requires a licensed professional. Thankfully, it’s easy to find a cost-effective electrician near you. It’s convenient, safe, and much better than having to pay a fine.

When hiring an electrician for the first time, you’ll want to consider the following:

• Know your task and budget requirements. Make sure you know whether you need only simple light switch wiring, a dimmer switch, or maybe even help with your switch board?
• Know your certificates and training levels. Check with your local council or building code regarding the certificates needed to wire a light switch.
• Get at least three quotes for the job, but put safety first. Canvassing will help you get a better idea of how your task is priced. Look out for suspiciously low quotes that may be red flags.
• Read reviews and ask for references. It’s good to hire someone trusted by homeowners just like you.

Safety comes first when wiring a light switch

Working with light switches and wires isn’t for DIYers alone. These kinds of projects require licensed electricians. Now that you know the laws, materials, precautions, and processes involved, you’ll better know what to expect when working on your house rewiring project.

Remember: your safety comes first! Don’t risk fire or fines; work with a local electrician instead. 

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FAQs on how to wire a light switch in Australia

What size wire should I use for a light switch?

Light-load circuits like those in your switches and bulbs usually use 1.5 mm² wire. Still, it’s best to check with an expert if you plan to purchase the wire yourself. 

What is a common terminal for wiring light switches?

The common terminal is where the live wire is attached. It usually comes in black, but it may be brown in newer homes or red in older homes. A licensed electrician will know the right colours for terminals and wires when wiring a light switch in your home.

Does it matter which wire goes on a switch?

Wire colours can be confusing! But when connecting a single pole light switch, it doesn’t always matter which wire goes into what terminal on a switch. This is because switch terminals are interchangeable; however, it’s vital for complex switches to follow the specific placement. Still, it’s best and often legally required to call in a pro electrician to work on your light switch and its wires.

Can I change light fittings myself in Australia?

No, you can’t. In Australia, light switch fitting and wiring must be done by a licensed electrician, with permission from your local council. Doing electrical work without a licence will result in a fine and time in prison since faulty electrical work poses serious risks to lives and property. So, while you can pick out a new light fixture and switch from halogen to LED lamps, you should leave the actual electrical work to the pros. 

What is a switchboard?

A switchboard is an electric power board that holds individual switches to control different power needed to certain areas of your home. 

What does a switchboard do?

Often referred to as a power box or a meter box, this board takes the entire load of the incoming electrical feed and separates it into switches rated for a specific amount of voltage. For example, a refrigerator needs more power than a table lamp plugged into an outlet. Voltages are measured by what the switch is for, then set up accordingly.

You can also find the main switch inside a meter box in addition to the switches on the switchboard. This single switch is to shut down all power from the entire board. 

What should I do if my lights or power points aren’t working?

If there is an overload on one of your switches, that particular switch will automatically flip off. For instance, a living room with nothing but outlets and overhead lighting may not be prepared to accept an electric area heater. When used, it may tell the switch that it is not wired for that much power. Go to your switch box and check if all the switches are on. Chances are, there will be one that has flipped off. Instead, use another breaker that has a higher voltage setting or check with a licensed electrician for advice on increasing power.

What should I do if all the electricity has gone off in my house?

In the case of all lights in the house turning off, several things could be the cause. Check your neighbour’s homes for any sign of lights. If their lights are out as well, there is probably a broader issue that is out of your control. If your neighbours have lights, check your main switchboard for signs that the main power switch has switched off. Switch it back on and make a note to check with your switchboard electrician to find the cause. 

Safety tips for your switchboard

High voltage is nothing to play around with. Unless you are a licensed electrician, keep your DIY skills to turning the switches on and off. These switches are made for the average homeowner to use in case of a power surge or overload. Learning how to use a switchboard is easy as long as you don’t try and remove the switches. Only trained professionals are able to determine what is tied to a switch and how to approach a problem.

There are times when a switchboard will wear out or need repair. A few of these signs include:

• Lights begin to flicker
• Circuit breakers are always tripping
• Circuit box contains old ceramic fuses
• Switchboard feels warm when circuit is tripped

Never attempt to remove a switch to uncover a problem

Only a licensed switchboard electrician has the tools and knowledge to understand the problem. Voltage can be deadly to the inexperienced homeowner.

Avoid sparks or fire

Sparks or fire signal an emergency, and you should contact a licensed electrician immediately. Follow his instructions and wait for his arrival.

Label all switches

Labelling is a simple idea, but many homeowners do not follow. You can save a lot of time and frustration in knowing which switches control different parts of your home.

Check your circuit breakers

Circuit breakers play a crucial role in safeguarding electrical systems and preventing potential hazards. In Australia, RCBOs (Residual Current Circuit Breakers with Overcurrent Protection) are commonly used for enhanced safety. These devices combine the functions of both a residual current device (RCD) and a circuit breaker, providing protection against electrical shocks and overcurrent situations. When installing RCBOs, it’s important to follow the appropriate wiring diagram, such as the one provided by Clipsal, to ensure correct and safe installation in accordance with Australian electrical standards.

What to look for when hiring an electrician

Licensing

A qualified electrician will have completed trade school and spent four years as an apprentice. However, there is an exception to completing an apprenticeship. It can be challenging to find a master electrician to study under. It is possible to take the required courses that range from 6 to 18 months and pass a final exam. While being able to obtain a license, it can be challenging to find employment with a company without the on-hand experience of an apprenticeship. 

Insurance

Your electrician should be able to provide a copy of their insurance for mishaps that could occur. 

Experience 

Experience is the key to understanding different areas of electricity. If your candidate has not completed an apprenticeship program, ask for references of past clients or seasoned electricians that can vouch for their work.

Quotes

Get three quotes from licensed electricians and compare the costs. Electricians in Australia average around $45 per hour for their services. The cost can vary according to region, experience and specialty.