What type of cable...

edthedead

do I need to use to wire in an outside light? I know that I should be using armoured cable outside (1.5mm should be sufficent for one PIR light), but do i really need amoured cable if it is going to be run above head height on the external wall?

fatnbald

Standard twin and earth cable is ok for that situation, 1.0mm or larger will suffice for an outside light.

Armoured cable is only required where there is a danger of mechanical damage, so if it was underground then it would be advisable to use armoured due the the danger from being hit by a spade or similar.

slowhand_2

hi edthedead, 1.5mm lightening circuit acble from any good DIY/ B&Q store will do. If your not running the cable straight through the wall and directly into the back of the light fitting and your going to run it around your property to some length, to save it being exposed why not run it inside some plastic conduit which you can also buy from your local B&Q. In black/white depending on which one will suit your plastic guttering etc.

Jonesya

Another alternative is HiTuf cabling - no armouring but is more robust than standard twin and earth, not as flexible though.

Nobleck

Hi, use 1.5 twin and earth, if the light has a P.I.R then the cable should be 1.5 3core and earth (on the drum the code would be 6243Y).
Don't use conduit from B&Q if it needs setting as it is only kight gauge and creases when bent using a proper bending spring.
The 3 core and earth would be used for : Permanent live
Switched Live(line)
Neutral
Earth
Hope that helps you out.

HugoSP

Just a few things to remember when running cable through walls, which you may need to do.

The hole drilled through the wall should run down hill as it goes from the inside to the outside. This will hinder any driving rain/moisture tracking through the wall along the cable.

Also, put a small swept bend as it exits to the outside, so the bottom of the bend is around 3 to 4 inches if poss lower than the exit point. Any water running down the cable will drip off the lowest point, as opposed to run into the brickwork.

Finally, seal the end with a bit of suitably coloured silicone sealent.

edthedead

Thanks everybody! Some top tips there!