We come across dozens of electrical switches either consciously or unconsciously. As there are a lot of them, a basic knowledge of their types will help you in understanding what to use and where to use them. So, if you come across a need to use an electrical switch, you will know exactly what to do. Here are the most commonly used types of electrical switches for you!
One-Way Switch
Also named as a single-pole switch, it is the most commonly used one. This switch consists of two brass-colored screw terminals connected to the hot wire. Mostly, there is a ground terminal involved in them as well to help you earth it properly.
When it comes to the uses of this switch, you will mostly find it in homes, operating lights, fans, and similar devices from a single location. It just works in ON and OFF ways.
Two-Way Switch
The next one is also famous as the double pole switch. The specialty of this switch is that it can control your equipment from different locations. It consists of four terminals. So, it seems pretty much like two single pole switches combined. This switch also contains a ground terminal for earthing purposes.
A two-way switch is mostly used in industry. But depending on need, they are also used in homes. Thus, they are used to operate motors and machinery.
Three-Way Switch
This switch contains three terminal screws. The hot wire is connected to the common terminal. There is no marking of ON and OFF on this switch because it depends on how you are using this switch.
These switches are commonly used in garages, stairs, and basements. Like, when you want to control a light using two separate switches, you use a three-way switch.
Four-Way Switch
This switch contains four terminals with a ground terminal. It looks pretty much like a double pole switch, but it does not have ON and OFF markings over it. These switches should be used with great care because they have a bigger purpose.
They are usually used between two three-way switches. Thus, if you want to control equipment from three or more locations, you can go for this switch.
Dimmer Switch
You might have used this switch thousands of times. Yeah, it is a kind of regulator switch that is used to regulate the speed of your fan. In more advanced terms, this switch is used to control the intensity of light as well. This switch works in steps, with each step corresponding to a fixed speed or intensity level.
Do Not Disturb Switch
If you want to ensure privacy as well as silence, you should go for a do not disturb switch. This switch is also available quite easily in the market.
The places where it is used mostly are hospitals and hotels.
Bell Push Button Switch
The next one is a bell push button switch. This switch is mostly used to control doorbells. Once you push it, it rings the bell, and on taking your hand off it, it comes to its actual place.
This switch is mostly found in offices and homes to notify or call someone.
There can be other electrical switches like circuit breakers that are present in almost every home. These switches control the whole supply of your home or industrial area. If they are turned off, that means you have cut off the supply of your home. It is more of an automatically operated electrical switch. Because when there is imbalance voltage around, it trips to save your appliances.
Conclusion
So, you see, there are many types of electrical switches available. I have tried to mention the usage along with the basic concept of every switch. I hope this will help you understand these switches in a better way.
If you still have the curiosity to learn more, then go and look for some uncommon electrical switches that are used for bigger purposes. Also, there are electronic switches as well that work on a higher level and are smarter than simple switches. You will find mechanical switches as well that are widely used in equipment and staff. In short, there is a complete ocean of knowledge related to switches.