Replacing outside light Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[Frisby]

I need to replace an outside light but when I switch the electricity off my intruder alarm goes off. Could I get away with just ensuring it is switched off at the switch?

[stoneyboy]

Frisby,
Without further information not a good idea.
Can you turn off the circuit for the lights which feed the outside light and leave the alarm on?
end

[ericmark]

Not really.
1) The switch is likely single pole so there could be power on neutral wire.
2) It could be wired like internal lamps where line goes to the lamp first.

I would think changing the battery in alarm is right way to do things. There are normally two batteries on in bell and one in panel and if latter is faulty then alarm will sound with power cut.

[Frisby]

Frisby,
Without further information not a good idea.
Can you turn off the circuit for the lights which feed the outside light and leave the alarm on?
end

I don't think so - there is a switch in the house and also one in the garage but they both trigger the alarm. Thanks for your reply, though.

[Frisby]

Not really.
1) The switch is likely single pole so there could be power on neutral wire.
2) It could be wired like internal lamps where line goes to the lamp first.

I would think changing the battery in alarm is right way to do things. There are normally two batteries on in bell and one in panel and if latter is faulty then alarm will sound with power cut.

Thanks for the help - I will contact my alarm people as it has only just been serviced.