Light Switches

Is there any electrical thing more essential and common-place than the light switch? We interact with light switches tens if not hundreds of times per day – it’s second nature. Light switches at home, light switches at work, and switches everywhere from your phone to your car – they really have become ubiquitous. Below we’ve built you a Light Switches 101 – everything from types & styles to faults and what’s required to repair them. Whether your looking to understand the risk level of a faulty switch or looking to get informed of what’s out there we hope you find this article useful.

Special Switch Types

Beyond the style of the light switch there are functional variations too. While standard light switches account for perhaps 90% of any given home’s switches, there are very likely some specialist switch mechanisms hiding in plain sight within your home:

Two-Way Switches

The most common specialist light switch is a two-way switch (occasionally incorrectly referred to as two pole switch). A two way switch refers to two switches that both have the ability to switch a given light or group of lights. Three-Way switches and beyond can also be wired where long or complex hallways or stairwells require them.

Dimmer Switches

Not exactly a stealthy and likely needing not too much explanation are dimmer switches. These knobs rotate to dim a given light. Take note to ensure your light is dimmable and that the dimmer type is suitable for your light type.

Fan Controllers

Ceiling Fans are a fantastic and simple way to cool a room. Your ceiling fan will likely come with a special switch mechanism that rotates to control fan speed. These knobs can have specific preset speeds or be entirely variable like a dimmer switch. They’re also quite pricey and generally account for the larger percentage of total ceiling fan cost when purchasing.

Labelled Switches

This is a broad grouping, labelled switches can vary greatly depending on their purpose. A labelled light switch could be used on something simple like a Heat/Fan/Light unit, or be required on something a little more heavy duty such as a Hob, Oven, or Stove. Beyond this labelled switch mechanisms can be custom made for practically any purpose.

Special Locations

Light Switches sometimes need to be located in unusual locations. These locations have specialist switches designed for them and, as always, must be installed to comply with the AS3000 wiring rules.

Architrave Switches

For switches needing to be installed within a timber architrave (as was the old custom) we have architrave switches. These architrave switches designed thinner (smaller) and as such can’t quite fit as many switch mechanisms as a standard switch.

IP Rated Switches

For switches located in areas where water is likely to reach them we have IP rated switches. IP (or “Ingress Protection”) ratings are used to grade the seal of electrical enclosures against moisture, dust and the like. Different ratings are required in different settings and only a few switch styles are made to meet these ratings.

Switch Size and Gangs

The final piece in the puzzle refers to the size of any given switch. A simple single light switch on a wall is referred to as a 1-Gang switch. As many as six switch mechanisms can be included in one switch plate, with plate able to contain a variety of switch types. A six gang switch plate for example could incorporate 5 switches and one dimmer mechanism. If there is ever a need for more than six switch mechanisms a second switch plate must be added.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all light switches the same?

No not all light switches are the same. A standard light switch switches a single light or banks of lights on and off. A 2 way switch switches a single light or banks of lights from two different locations. An intermediate 3(+) way switch switches a single light or banks of light on and off lights from 3 or more locations.

What is 2 Way Switch?

A 2 Way Switch refers to two switches that turn on or off a light or group of lights from two different locations.

Can I replace a light switch myself?

No, within Australia all electrical work must be done by a licensed electrician.

Do I need an electrician to replace a light switch?

Yes, when it comes to electricity Australia does not allow any DIY work. All electrical work within Australia must be done by a licensed electrician.

Why did my light switch stop working?

A light switch might stop working from a broken wire at the switch or a faulty mech.

How much does it cost to install a switch?

The cost of installing a switch depends on many factors. Try our free online estimate tool now!

Can a faulty light switch cause a fire?

Yes a faulty light switch can cause a fire when the terminals loosen and degrade over time causing resistance at the point of connection. A faulty switch also poses a risk of electrocution if components become exposed.

Do light switches wear out?

Yes light switches can wear out overtime. The most common type of way a switch wears out is when the plastic clip brakes that holds the part of the switch you touch to the switch mech causing the switch to sit uneven making it hard to turn on and off the light.

Is a crackling light switch dangerous?

Yes, crackling generally indicates a repetitive sparking that can easily cause a fire. We would strongly recommend turning off the lights at the switchboard and requesting a visit from your electrician.