Modular switches and sockets: A Consumer's Guide

This is a basic guide to what you need to consider prior to starting a new build or renovation.

Terminology

The most common issue individuals face is the confusing variety of electrical switch purchase. Here's a brief explanation of the terms you'll come across.

Gang is the number of sockets or switches on a single plate. A light switch that has 3 switches is known as a three Gang switch. A double socket that is standard is known as a two-gang socket.

Way is the amount of modular switches that are capable of switching light. To make it easier, the majority of switches have two ways. A light that is controlled from one switch requires only a single-way switch (although 2-way switches can be used with no issues). A light that is controlled with two switches e.g. the landing light requires two switches with two ways.

Intermediate: If an light is activated by three different switches, two must be 2-way switches, with the third one is an intermediate switch.

 

Single Pole: A single pole switch is a single contact. If switched, it breaks only the current that is live and maintain the neutral current.

 

Double Pole: a double pole switch comes with two separate contacts that interrupt neutral and live currents. Switches with double poles are suggested in all situations, particularly where children are living in the home.

 

Planning

Keep in mind that you can add as many sockets and switches on the electrical system as you want. But it's worthwhile to plan where you'll require them prior to buying. Consider the various requirements of your space and the lifestyle you lead Where do you need the most electricity sockets? With the increasing number of electronic gadgets, you must have more sockets installed than you think you'll require. You should also consider installing double sockets instead of single sockets as the cost difference is not that significant.

 

Always opt for sockets that are switched to ensure extra security. This is not the case for sockets used for kitchen appliances, like freezers, for example. They are not to be switched in the event that switches are accidentally switched off.

 

The majority of people just put one TV point in their room. Don't make the mistake! Set up TV points on at least two different walls in the space, and you might decide to arrange the furniture and relocate the TV later on.

 

Consider the lighting requirements of a space. Dimmer switches are a inexpensive and simple method of varying the lighting levels in the room. They are particularly helpful to create various moods in dining rooms or living rooms. Be aware that if a light is controlled from two places that is, if one switch that will be utilized is a dimmer and the other one is an ordinary 2-way light switch, and not an dimmer.

 

Plates that are raised or flat?

The distinctions these sockets have aren't just aesthetic. Flat plate sockets appear modern, sleek and elegant However, they also provide an efficient, space-saving option to install sockets in furniture. The drawback to changes is that they usually require larger back boxes than the ones originally put in place, which is 35mm instead of 25mm. Moving back boxes is lengthy and messy.

 

Screwed or not?

The aesthetics of screwless flat plates is that screwless switches have a more contemporary look than flat plates with screws However, sockets and switches that are screwless also have a distinct advantage that they can save you time and money as well because they can be installed in place without facing plate prior to you paint, and can be painted easily and quickly without masking tape or worry regarding markings on the plates. After drying, simply put the front plate in place.

 

Ends

Polished Chrome, brushed Steel and black nickel comprise among the most sought-after modern-day finishes. The drawback of polished chrome is that it reveals fingerprints quickly. One method avoid this is to pick a model in which the plate is either polished or black however, the switches are constructed from white or black plastic. Out of the three finishes mentioned above, brushed stainless steel (also called brushed chrome) is the most simple to maintain free of dirt.