double pole switch on a bathroom selv fan

[cato]

Just bought a xpelair 12v humidistat 100mm fan to go in zone 1 and reading instructions it asks for a d/p switch. Is that the regs ? I assumed it could be wired as normal i.e. live from light switch and perm live etc .. having looked into it a bit more it seems i could go 230 v if rcd protected (which it is ) but unsure if wise to ?? I'm a 16th edition sporadic sparky a little confused...

 

[westward10]

Are you replacing an existing fan or putting in the circuit for a new one, if the latter it will need additional rcd protection. The fan can be 230v as long as it is suitably IP rated and installed as per manufacturers instructions.

 

[Midwest]

Reg 537.2.1.1 requires each of the live supply conductors to be isolated, except in TN-S or TN-C-S, although manufacturers instructions should be taken into consideration. Most bathroom fan installs, use TP fan isolating switch, so you isolate the fan for maintenance, without having to disconnect the supply to the light (if you have no window, or you like cleaning in the dark), and some customers like to turn them off at night for some reason!

If the fan is a new addition in your bathroom (not a replacement), it would now need RCD protection. If the fan is installed in Zone 1, it would need to be IPX4 or IPX5 if it could splashed by water jets (e.g. shower head). As regards low voltage or extra low voltage, as long as you comply with IP rating, that's your decision.

PS If it is a new fan installed in Zone 1, it should be (cough), notified to LBC.
PPS Humidistat fans, don't get good press on this forum.

 

[cato]

Thanks for quick replies. First time on any forum ever... impressed!

Yes its a new consumer unit rcd etc and yep LBC involved ! From memory its TN-C-S.
I should add I'm renting the flat out so leaning towards 12 v just to be safe but if it meant i didn't have to provide a separate d/p switch maybe i would go 230v just feels a bit dodge !

My ideal would be a 12v fan that operates as mentioned before - off the light switch. The humidistat is to hopefully keep the small ensuite wet room ventilated if they (the renters) don't turn light on. Sounds like i should be buying a good quality unit if they are problematic ... thanks

 

[Midwest]

I would still have some form of isolation, perhaps in the loft next to the transformer?

 

[davesparks]

Installing isolators for fixed equipment has been normal practice for a long long time hasn't it?

And what on earth is a 16th edition electrician supposed to be?

 

[Octopus]

Why are LBC involved?

 

[Toneyz]

Isolator to selv fan transformer installed in zone 3 and beyond what is the cat No. of the fan ?

 

[Midwest]

Why are LBC involved?

New current using device in special location or because they have eyes and ears everywhere