A pilot light switch is another type of illuminated light switch, but it works in the opposite way, lighting up when the switch is in the ON position and serving as a helpful reminder for a light that's out of sight of the switch (e.g., an outdoor, basement or closet light) that’s been left on. The LED illuminated switch is the ideal choice for rooms or spaces that otherwise tend to be dark, such as basements, hallways, garages and laundry areas. It works via an internal circuit which is activated only when the switch is in the off position and provides just enough electricity to light up the rocker. Generally speaking, a waterproof light switch is the ideal (and oftentimes the only) solution for these types of rooms.Īnother type of light switch, the illuminated LED dimmer switch, has a locator light which allows it to be seen in the dark. With the trend toward creating luxurious and spa-like bathrooms, for example, there are more and more electrical appliances installed in these spaces, and they require very specific solutions as determined by local electric codes. For this reason, special requirements exist for light switches and electrical outlets in these rooms.
When water and electricity come into contact with one another, a significant risk of electric shock exists, and this can have deadly consequences. The typical home has several rooms in which the use of water is required, for example, kitchens, baths, laundry rooms, outdoor spaces and even spa rooms. A 3-way switch controls a single bulb from two different locations, and so on for the 4-way switch. A double light switch is a type of single pole switch that has two switches for controlling two light fixtures from a single location, for example, an overhead light fixture and a lamp.įor rooms or other spaces requiring additional lighting solutions, there are additional options that offer the ability to control lights from more than one location. One terminal connects to the electrical wire coming from the home’s electrical panel while the other serves as the outgoing hot wire that connects to the fixture. Single pole light switches have two brass terminal screws and a toggle labeled ON and OFF, and most also have a grounding screw that connects to the circuit's ground wire. Most switches in a typical home are single pole. It controls a single light fixture (or electrical outlet) from a single location and is perfect for smaller rooms that don’t require many light sources. The single-pole switch (also called a 2 way light switch) is the simplest and perhaps the most common type of light switch.
Although modern light switches have greatly evolved since their invention, the quick break technology invented by Holmes is, in fact, still found in homes throughout the world, and these types of basic switches number in the billions.Ĭhoosing the right light switch for the room The last decade or so has brought significant advances in light switch technology through the advancement of electronics and smart technology - to the point where automation of a home’s entire lighting system is now a reality. Early evolutions include the toggle switch, invented in the early 1900s and the dimmer switch, first appearing in the 1950s. After the invention of the first light switch, the dimensions, design and overall look of light switches continued to evolve over time. Holmes came up with a new technology he named the “quick break mechanism.” This new technology caused the internal contacts in a light switch to break apart quickly enough to prevent the electric arcing that normally took place and posed a significant risk of fire. The first light switch was invented in 1884 by John Henry Holmes, a British electrical engineer and inventor. In simple terms, they work by opening and closing the electrical current that runs from a home’s electrical panel to a light fixture or lamp. Light switches are an integral part of a home’s mechanics and are used to control numerous electrical devices such as light fixtures, lamps, ceiling fans, home appliances, home ventilation systems, roller shutters and outdoor lighting.
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