This is probably not possible and instead just highlights my basic lack of understanding, but thought it was worth asking! If it is possible I would get a qualified electrician to do it.
I'd like to install a smart wifi dimmer switch which requires a neutral wire, but I don't have a neutral. (I've already got a smart dimmer that works without neutral, but want a nicer one that does require it).
The switch in question is a 2 gang switch. One switch controls my kitchen spot lights, the other controls an outside light that we've never used.
I've read that the reason for a neutral is so that the wifi switch can draw power to run itself even when the light circuit is broken. So I was wondering if in the absence of a neutral wire, the redundant wires for the outside light could be made to provide power for the wifi switch.
I'm in the UK. 100+ year old house, but wiring is this millenium.
My current switch has a L, L1 & L2. Two wires go into the L.
The new switch has a L, L1, G, N.
The box in the wall has an earth wire looped into the casing.
Photo of box:
Best Answer
In the absence of any other answers I'll put what I'm thinking currently. Please tell me in the comments why this will cause my house to burn down (and also vote me down while you're at it). Or even better, help me improve the answer or give a better solution that actually works :)
My idea
The second gang goes to a light socket that is not in use. I presume that in this light socket there will be:
In the redundant socket
In the switch
(connections on the actual switch are L, L1, G & N)
Result
Job done? Or 🔥🔥🔥?
In the absence of doubt, this "answer" should not be thought of as an answer yet and will not be accepted unless enough people with more knowledge than me confirm it's safe. And... I'd still get a qualified electrician to actually do the work.