i bought a new light and light switch for my living room and went to connect it. There were 2 red (live) 2 black (neutral) 2 green (earth) in the ceiling and 1 red (live) 1 black (neutral) 1 green (earth) in the wall. I connected the light first, 2 red to the live 2 black to the neutral, 2 green to the earth. I connected the light switch, black to common and red to 1 way and the green still connected to the back box. When i turn on the power the light is on, but the light swith is in the off position and when i turn flick the switch my fuse blows...... can you help please ?

mank, September 2009

Here's a picture of a ceiling rose with the new Euro Colours rather than the Red & Black which you have...

http://www.flameport.com/electric/lighting_circuits/ceiling_rose_end_newcolours.png

The live runs off to the switch and the other wire that comes back from the switch is NOT Neutral - it's Switched Live - to turn the light on and off - You have connected this to neutral and when the switch is set to On the fuse will blow.

You will notice in the drawing that Permanent Live is not connected to the Lamp - only switched live - the one with the Brown Sleeve. You have connected permanent live to the lamp which is why the light is on when the switch is off. You have two wires to move.

Consider calling in an electrician if it's all too much for you.

Take care... Good luck...

Peccavi, September 2009