Take Control of Your Lights: Different Types of Electrical Switches and How to Choose Right

Lighting fixtures are considered some of the most important lighting elements that can easily determine the aesthetics of your home. They can spruce up interiors, but only when the entire lighting system is working well together. One of the most noticeable parts of a lighting system is the electrical switch, the most common and important electrical device in the home.

There are many different switches used in the home, and while they are usually used for lights, some can be used to turn electrical current on or off for almost any electrical device. Sometimes, they can be installed to control the current running to an electrical outlet to turn on or off table lamps, ceiling fans, home appliances, home ventilation systems, outdoor lighting, just to name a few. 

Different Types of Electrical Switches

If you start exploring today’s lighting market, it will not take long until you realise that there are many different types of light switches out there. They come in a variety of shapes and designs and if you would like to take control over your lights and appliances, take a look at the wide range of Bunnings electrical switches, Australia and New Zealand’s leading retailer of home and lifestyle products. 

Single Pole Switches

A single-pole light switch is the most common household switch. It has two terminals and turns power on or off easily and simply. It controls one light fixture or electrical outlet from one location only and is a great choice for small rooms that don’t have many light sources.

Three-/Four-Way Switches

A three-way switch has three terminals and a four-way has four. They are designed to control a light from two or three switch locations, such as both ends of a hallway, a large room with more than one entrance or the top and bottom of a stairwell.

Dimmer Switches

A dimmer switch is designed to control a light’s intensity for function and ambience. Most incandescent bulbs, as well as some CFL and LED bulbs, are dimmable. 

Smart Switches

As the name suggests, this type of switch is designed for smart homes and lighting setups. A smart switch hooks up to an electronic device, such as your smartphone, and allows you to remotely turn lights on or off and adjust the level of brightness even when you are away from home. It’s the latest type of switch and is becoming more popular thanks to the convenience it offers.

Wall Plates

When it comes to wall plates, make sure to choose the ones that are configured for the type of switches you have installed. They are available in different colours and finishes to match every décor. 

How to Choose Your Electrical Switches

Choosing the right light switches can greatly complement your home’s overall look, but with the vast range of choices, it can get overwhelming at times. The great thing is that you can change them periodically and keep up with evolving styles. However, here are a few ideas that can help you choose electrical switches that meet the current home interior trends.

Quality Always Comes First

Look for products with higher guarantees as you want your switches to last for a long time, such as Bunnings electrical switches. It’s not a huge job to replace a switch, but still, it’s always a good idea to invest in high-quality products that will serve you for years to come. 

Match the Finish of the Switch and the Décor

The finish of the switch can make or break the room’s style, so make sure to choose a switch that complements the room’s colour scheme and doesn’t overwhelm the overall look of the area. 

The Type of Installation Matters

When choosing a light switch, consider the best type of installation for your project, whether recessed or surface-mounted. A recessed switch is installed into a hollow opening in the wall or drywall, while a surface-mounted switch is not tucked inside a hole in the wall but extends out from it. 

Additional Tips

If you are a DIYer who enjoys fixing things around the house, remember that when working with electricity, safety is a priority. Choose reliable switches to build a safe lighting system in your home and significantly reduce the risk of an electrical fire. 

The switches you buy should meet local regulations and be compatible with the current installation as wiring methods and colours may vary depending on the country. For that reason, always read the product’s label and description carefully to ensure it follows Australia’s standards and regulations.

Also, it’s very important to use tools that comply with safety regulations and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines to ensure you are using the product correctly. The most important practice to keep in mind is turning off the power supply before you begin. If you are not experienced or confident to work with electricity, it’s better to leave the job in the hands of professionals. 

Installing recessed switches, for instance, requires wiring the lights into the wall, so hiring an electrician is a great idea to ensure the job will be done safely and properly. It can also save you some time and money as specific tools are required to dig the grooves, depending on the locations where the built-in boxes will be installed.