What Are The Different Types Of Electrical Switches?

There are different types of electrical switches, with the One Way Switches being the most commonly used ones. Two-way switches are also widely used, but they are not as common. This guide explores the features of different types of switches available today.

Differences Between One-Way & Two-Way Switches

A one way switch is designed to work as a make or break switch. When you turn them on, connection between the two terminals is established. The 2 way switches are nothing more than two 1-way switches combined to create a single switch.

In the case of a two-way switch, the terminals are designed to be connected to either of the other two terminals. So when connection with one terminal is established, the connection is broken with the other. These types of switches allow functionality that is not possible with the one-way switch. You can operate a light or fan from two places. These switches provide more convenience compared to One Way Switches.

Applications of Two Way Switches

Two way switches can be used in places where you want to light up a larger area without the need to travel far for the switches. For example, if you have a light in a long hallway, these switches allow you to turn the light on from either end of the hallway. Both the switches can be used for turning the light on or off. A one-way switch cannot help you achieve the same results.

Since 2 way switches need to be used only in specific situations, they are not as commonly used as the 1-way switches. The one-way switch is the most commonly used switch in both residential and commercial settings where the need is only to control the flow of electricity.

Time Switches

Besides these standard switches, there are the time switches. There are two main types of these switches, based on how they are set.

• Manual-Setting Switches: These time switches are available in digital and analog versions. They have on/off period and you could set the switches any number of times within a period of 24 hours. You can use them for controlling lights, air conditioning, water heaters and other appliances.
• Factory-Preset Switches: These types of switches are designed to allow you to pre-set them for turning-off an appliance or light. Once you have pre-set the time, you can leave it and it will automatically switch off. These switches provide lots of convenience, because once you set the time you will not have to worry about it.

Both these types of time switches are used because of their advantages. The factory-preset switches offer lots of convenience. However, it is the manual-setting switches which are found to be more energy efficient.

So consider all these points when choosing the right modular switches online. All the different switches have their unique advantages. A typical home may require all these different types of switches for different purposes.