An electrical switch is one of the most common household devices, and its role is simple as it allows you to control your lights and appliances with a simple flick or press of a button. At their core, switches operate by either continuing or interrupting the flow of electricity in a circuit.
As fundamental as enclosure boxes, switches are favoured for their simplicity. With so many electrical switches for sale, knowing your options can help you make the right choice. Whether you’re renovating, building or just upgrading your home, it pays off to look into the type of switches you have at your disposal.
Types of Electrical Switches
Toggle
The toggle switch is the classic option for many homes as it’s operated by flipping a small knob or “switch” up or down to turn the lights on or off. A well-configured toggle electrical switch is a reliable, simple solution that comes available in different finishes and fits in just about anywhere.
Pushbutton
Pushbutton switches are all about quick operation, as all you need to do is press a button. This makes pushbutton switches commonly used as doorbells and buzzers, but you’ll also find them as a stylish option for light switches in modern homes. They’re great when you want something a bit different but not “in your face” different.
Single-Pole
The single-pole switch is the most common switch in Australia. It allows you to control one light or device from a single spot, which makes it easy to install and use. This level of simplicity makes it ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways. If you’re browsing electrical switches for sale, you simply can’t go wrong with single-pole models.
Double-Pole
With double-pole switches, you can control two circuits at once, making them ideal when it comes to heavy-duty appliances like water heaters and air conditioners. Since double-pole switches for sale have four terminals, they can safely handle more power.
Three-Way
Three-way switches let you control a single light from two different spots, like from both ends of a hallway. They’re quite handy in larger rooms or areas with more than one point of entry. With three terminals, they offer flexibility exactly where you need it.
Four-Way
If you want to control a light from three or more locations, you should go for a four-way switch. Used together with three-way switches, they make for a perfect combo for open spaces or extremely long corridors. They also make it easy to control lights in busy homes.
Dimmer
Dimmer switches let you set the mood exactly how you want it to be. Turn a knob or slide a lever to adjust and you are able to adjust the brightness of the lighting fixture. This makes them perfect for movie nights or dinner parties, as dimmers also help save energy and make your bulbs last longer.
Rocker
Rocker switches are the more modern version of toggle switches. Instead of flipping a lever, you press a flat panel that rocks back and forth, making this a sleek, easy-to-clean design popular in contemporary homes. Rocker switches for sale are a good option when it comes to a minimalist look.
Rotary
Rotary switches rely on a turning knob to control your lights. You just twist it to switch the light on or off, or to adjust the colour of the light. They’re also used with ceiling fans or appliances with multiple speeds, as rotary switches give you precise control.
Pull Chain
A pull chain switch is usually used for ceiling fans or pendant lights. They work by pulling the chain to turn the light or fan on and then doing the same to turn it off. They’re quite practical in places where wall switches aren’t handy, such as sheds or garages.
Slide
Slide switches use a sliding mechanism that opens or closes the circuit, and sliding from one side to the other to turn something on or off makes it easy to use. You’ll often find these switches in small electronics like lamps.
Occupancy
Occupancy switches use sensors to detect movement and automatically turn lights on. This makes them perfect for bathrooms, garages, or anywhere you want hands-free operation. They can also help save energy by making sure lights aren’t left on for nothing.
Combination
Combination switches pack more than one function into their housing. You might have a switch and a power point together, or two switches side by side, which makes them a smart solution when it comes to both saving space and keeping things tidy.
Specialty
Specialty switches are made for unique applications such as weatherproof switches for outdoor use, illuminated switches for dark spaces or even foot switches for hands-free control. If you have a specific need, there’s probably a specialty switch for it.
Smart
Smart switches are the latest advancement when it comes to lighting fixtures. They can connect to your home’s Wi-Fi and let you control your lights from your phone or with your voice. You can set schedules, adjust brightness levels and check if you left the lights on, from anywhere.
