British General BG Electrical WP12-01 Single 2-Way Outdoor Weatherproof Switch Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe installation, operation, and maintenance of your British General BG Electrical WP12-01 Single 2-Way Outdoor Weatherproof Switch. Please read these instructions carefully before installation and retain them for future reference.

The BG Electrical WP12-01 is a robust, high-impact single 2-way switch designed for outdoor use, providing a safe electricity supply in external environments. It features an IP66 rating for protection against dust and water ingress.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Electrical installation should only be carried out by a qualified electrician in accordance with national wiring regulations and local building codes. Incorrect installation can lead to electric shock, fire, or serious injury.

• Always isolate the mains power supply before commencing any electrical work.
• Ensure all connections are secure and correctly terminated.
• Do not exceed the specified current and voltage ratings.
• This product is designed for permanent installation.
• Ensure the enclosure is sealed correctly after wiring to maintain its IP66 rating.

3. Product Overview

The BG Electrical WP12-01 is a single-gang, 2-way outdoor switch with a durable grey finish. Its design ensures high impact resistance and protection against environmental elements.

• IP66 Rated: Provides protection against dust and powerful water jets.
• 2-Way Switching: Allows control of a single light or appliance from two different locations.
• LED Indicator: Features an LED light that can be wired to illuminate when the switch is ON or OFF, depending on user preference.
• Fast Fix Design: Incorporates a 150° rotation mechanism for fixing screws, eliminating the need for separate screw covers.
• Multiple Cable Entries: Equipped with 5 x 20mm entry points, expandable to 25mm, for versatile cable routing from the rear, sides, top, or bottom.

Figure 1: Front view of the BG Electrical WP12-01 Outdoor Weatherproof Switch.

Figure 2: The switch demonstrating its IP66 weatherproof rating with water droplets on the surface.

4. Installation

Follow these steps for safe and correct installation:

1. Isolate Power: Before beginning any work, ensure the mains power supply to the circuit is completely isolated at the consumer unit/fuse box. Verify with a suitable voltage tester.
2. Prepare Mounting Surface: Select a suitable, flat, and stable outdoor surface for mounting.
3. Open Enclosure: Carefully open the switch enclosure. The fixing screws are captive and rotate 150 degrees for access.


Figure 3: Accessing the captive screws for installation using a screwdriver.

4. Mark Fixing Points: Position the switch on the desired mounting surface and mark the fixing points through the designated holes.
5. Drill Holes: Drill appropriate holes for wall plugs and screws, ensuring not to damage any hidden wiring or pipes.
6. Prepare Cable Entries: The enclosure has multiple 20mm knockouts (expandable to 25mm) for cable entry. Carefully remove the required knockouts for your cable routing. Ensure appropriate weatherproof glands are used to maintain the IP66 rating.


Figure 4: Underside view illustrating the multiple knockouts for versatile cable entry.

7. Wire Connections: Connect the electrical cables to the clearly marked terminals. The terminals feature backed-out captive screws for easy wiring. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections for Live (L), Neutral (N), and Earth (E). For 2-way switching, connect the common and two switched live wires as per standard wiring diagrams.
8. LED Indicator Wiring (Optional): The LED indicator can be wired to illuminate when the switch is ON or OFF. Refer to the internal wiring diagram for specific connections to achieve the desired functionality.

Figure 5: The switch featuring an LED power indicator and demonstrating its impact-resistant design.
9. Secure Enclosure: Once wiring is complete and verified, close the enclosure and tighten the captive screws to ensure a watertight seal.
10. Restore Power: Restore power at the consumer unit/fuse box and test the switch functionality.

Figure 6: Example diagram of a 2-way switching circuit, allowing control from two points.

5. Operating Instructions

The BG Electrical WP12-01 switch operates as a standard rocker switch. Press the top of the rocker to turn the connected appliance or lighting circuit ON, and press the bottom to turn it OFF. In a 2-way setup, the state of the connected circuit can be toggled from either switch.

Figure 7: The BG Electrical WP12-01 switch installed on an exterior wall, ready for use.

6. Maintenance

The BG Electrical WP12-01 switch requires minimal maintenance. To ensure continued safe operation and maintain its IP66 rating:

• Periodically inspect the switch for any signs of damage, wear, or degradation of the enclosure.
• Clean the exterior with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Ensure the enclosure screws remain tight to maintain the weatherproof seal.
• If any damage is observed, isolate the power immediately and arrange for inspection and replacement by a qualified electrician.

7. Troubleshooting

If the switch is not functioning correctly, consider the following:

• No Power: Check the circuit breaker or fuse at the consumer unit. Ensure the mains power supply is ON.
• Switch Not Responding: Verify all wiring connections are secure and correct. Ensure the switch mechanism is not obstructed.
• LED Indicator Not Working: Check the LED wiring connections. The LED may be wired to only illuminate in a specific switch position.
• Water Ingress: If water is found inside the enclosure, immediately isolate power. This indicates a compromised seal, likely due to incorrect installation of cable glands or loose enclosure screws. The unit must be inspected and resealed or replaced by a qualified electrician.

For issues not resolved by these steps, consult a qualified electrician.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

British General (BG Electrical) products are guaranteed against faulty materials and workmanship for 25 years from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects arising from normal use and does not cover damage caused by improper installation, misuse, or unauthorized modifications.

For technical support or warranty claims, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Ensure you have your proof of purchase and the product model number (WP12-01) available.