Lighting point (punto de luz)

What a lighting point is

A punto de luz is each lighting outlet in your home: the cable coming out of the ceiling or wall to connect a light, together with the run that links it to the circuit and the switch that controls it. When a Spanish electrician quotes for a job, lighting points and socket points (puntos de enchufe) are counted one by one, so you will see the term on almost every quote.

What it includes

• Live, neutral and earth (ground) wiring from the nearest junction box.
• The conduit the cables run through, buried in the wall or surface-mounted.
• The connection box in the ceiling or wall.
• The switch, two-way switch or push button.

It does not include the light fitting, which is bought separately.

Types of lighting point

• Simple: controlled from one switch.
• Two-way (conmutado): from two places, a three-way setup in US terms.
• Intermediate (de cruce): from three or more places.
• With detector or push button: typical in hallways, stairs and garages.

Rules and cost

Lighting points go on circuit C1, protected by its own MCB, under ITC-BT-25, which also sets a minimum number of points per room. If the conduits have room, adding one is quick. If the wall has to be chased, a new line costs roughly 80 to 150 euros and each simple switch 30 to 50 euros, plus VAT, as a guide. See handyman electrician in Seville, Spain.