I have just bought 2 spot lights for the ceiling however the new lights need to be earthed but the old ones were not earthed and there is not an earth wire there what would happen if I just wired it without the earth wire would it be dangerous

Dee, November 2009

If you have an earth in the light switch , the chances are you will have an earth at the light fitting.
I agree with Pecavvi, but read everything he says not just the first 5 words!

Steve, November 2009

You have a choice to make then - cost of Mr Sparky vs cost of new lights.

The electrician may be able to "find" a convenient earth either close by or running a wire - bread & butter for him figuratively and literally...

P, November 2009

thanks for that I can't find an earth wire so I have called an electrician but if there's no earth I can't see that he will be able to help unless it involves some kind of installing an earth wire. I think I probably would need a double insulated light fitting which is a shame as these match my ceiling lights

Dee, November 2009

It will not be dangerous until a fault occurs and then it could be lethal - you might never know about it.

Electrical fittings designed to be eartherd MUST ALWAYS be earthed.

Your assertion, "there is not an earth wire there" may not be correct - have another look - pull gently on the wires and see what comes through the hole in the ceiling - If you can't find an earth then call in an electrician.

Good luck... take care...

Peccavi, November 2009