Pull Cord Switches

Because it is worked by a cord, nobody has to touch a switch plate with wet hands in a room with a bath or shower. Most of the Knightsbridge 10AX models here, such as the 8300PC and SN8300, suit bathrooms and utility rooms, and the 45A SN8310N is for bathroom circuits such as electric showers. The circuit and the switch position still have to follow the bathroom rules in the wiring regulations.

A 1-way switch controls a light from a single position, while a 2-way switch can also work with a second switch elsewhere, such as a wall switch outside the room. The SN8290 is the 1-way model; the 8300 series, the SN8300 and the PM8300 are 2-way, and a 2-way switch can still be wired as a single switching point.

The SN8290, SN8300 and SN8310N carry a cord of about 1.7m. The 8300 series carries about 1.5m. Where Part M guidance applies, set the pull so it hangs between 900mm and 1100mm above the floor, with a contrasting bangle of at least 50mm diameter.

Its position and its bangle: Part M asks for a lighting pull cord between 900mm and 1100mm above floor level, with a bangle of at least 50mm diameter that contrasts visually with its background. The white PM8300 lighting switch and the PM8310N double-pole switch are compliant with Building Regulations Part M.

A double-pole switch rated for the shower current, such as the SN8310N at 45A. The PM8310N is rated 50A and is Part M compliant. The SN8310N and PM8310N each have a neon indicator that shows when the circuit is on; match the rating to the shower and its cable before choosing.

Eight finishes in the 8300 series plus plain white: antique brass, anthracite, black nickel, brushed chrome, matt black, matt white, polished chrome and smoked bronze, each 8300 model with a matching or coordinating cord tip. White is covered by the SN8300, SN8290 and PM8300. Plates to go with the finishes are in the decorative accessories range.

Every switch here that states an IP rating, such as the SN8300 and PM8300, is IP20, which gives no protection against water. The 8300BN, 8300MB, 8300MW, 8300SB, SN8290, SN8310N and PM8310N are also IP20. Fit the switch out of the reach of spray, in a position the bathroom rules allow.

Yes, the PM8300 and PM8310N Part M models have bases with inherent anti-microbial properties, third-party tested. That makes them a sensible choice for a bathroom that many people share, where the Part M height and contrasting bangle guidance usually applies as well.

Most are certified to EN 60669-1, the standard for household switches for fixed installations. The 8300 finishes and the SN8290, SN8300 and SN8310N are each certified to EN 60669-1, while the PM8300 and PM8310N are certified to all relevant British safety standards and are Part M compliant.