Help with dimmer switch installation in kitchen Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[Jamiesmole]

Hi guys,

First time poster - be kind.

I’m looking for some advice regarding a dimmer switch I have just installed in our kitchen.

We have a double switch which controls the kitchen and dining room on one side and a single which does the kitchen only.

I purchased a BG Electrical Single Dimmer Light Switch, Black Nickel, 2-Way, 400 Watts from Screwfix.

It was straightforward to fit but what I’ve found now is that the dimmer will only switch on/off when the kitchen double switch is on. You can then switch the dimmer on/off or adjust the brightness, but when the double switch is off you cannot use the dimmer to turn the light on.

I’ve attached some photos showing the double(white) wiring and the black (dimmer)

Any advice would be great.

Mrs is already doing my nut in!

[stoneyboy]

Hi jamiesole
If the metal dimmer replaced a 2-way switch you have mixed up your wiring. Hopefully you photographed the original so you can see where the wires should be.
Regards S

[Jamiesmole]

I’ve put back on the single switch and I’ve still got the same problem. I’ve swapped wires into l1, l2 and common but seem to get the same issue. Have I done something stupid here?

[hosepipe]

Sounds like there should be a link between both of the commons, from the photo it looks like there is nothing in the second common.
As your fitting a metal face plate there must be an earth in the back box or earth connected onto the face plate.