Unexplained electrical supply

[EnerjonSnS]

Hi All

I've come across a problem that does not make sense. In a lighting circuit, two points, when the switch at the wall is off, still tests 160V. The other points in the circuit tests 0V when the switch at the wall is off. This is a flat roof house. Your insights is appreciated.

[Derlyn]

Sounds like you will be needing an electrician to sort it out. 😉

[adrianh]

Sounds like you will be needing an electrician to sort it out. ��

LoL...

[GCE]

Hi All

I've come across a problem that does not make sense. In a lighting circuit, two points, when the switch at the wall is off, still tests 160V. The other points in the circuit tests 0V when the switch at the wall is off. This is a flat roof house. Your insights is appreciated.

If it does not make sense , it is a loose neutral , is my first go to thought.

Does the switch have an LED indicator or dimmer or is it a straight switch

The 160v is it live to neutral ? what do you get neutral to earth and live to earth. Could be a neutral and live switched around somewhere
Do the same test with the switch on.

What are your readings at the main DB between live and earth , neutral and earth , live and neutral

[AndyD]

I'd take the 160 volt reading with a pinch of salt. Do the same test using the Lo-Z range if your tester has one, otherwise do the test again using an analogue multimeter.

[ians]

How many wires are are there at the light points ... a colour wire (return from the switch) and 2 black wires (neutrals) and a couple earth wires ... maybe even a red looping through the light points ... there are so many different combinations of wires that could be at the light points.

It is important to take pictures and post the pics ... if you are going to ask questions.

Did you spilt the 2 black wires and getting 160 v between the 2 black wires ... the reason you are getting 160 V at one of the points could be because it is the first light in the circuit.

What colour are the wires you are testing?