All Topics > Home Services > Electrical > How To Choose The Right Light Switch >

How To Choose The Right Light Switch California

Whether you're installing a new ceiling fan or just replacing an old light fixture, choosing the rig ...

Local Companies

Akeena Solar
(310) 770-0172
22661 Lambert Street., Suite 204
Glendale, CA

J. Miller Electric, Inc.
(760)949-6491
P.O. Box 403839
Hesperia, CA

Precision Electric Company
619-390-2991
8137 Winter Gardens Blvd
Lakeside, CA

K.S.Electric
805-273-4480
box 1123
newbury park, CA

Frontline Electrical Services
707-747-6251
3195 Park Rd., Ste. C
Benicia, CA

Abbett Electric Corp.
(415) 864-7500
1850 Bryant St
San Francisco, CA

AC Construction Electrical Contractors
(415) 821-6157
27 Peralta Ave
San Francisco, CA

Abbett Electric Corp.
(415) 864-7500
1850 Bryant St
San Francisco, CA

AC Construction Electrical Contractors
(415) 821-6157
27 Peralta Ave
San Francisco, CA

Energy Dynamics Inc
818-518-7454
647 Kendale Ln
Thousand Oaks, CA

provided by: HandyHouseholdHints.com

Whether you're installing a new ceiling fan or just replacing an old light fixture, choosing the right light switch can be harder than you think. There are many different kinds to choose from, and some might suit your project better than others. So, to help you in choosing the right light switch for your next lighting project, here are the basics on the different types out there so you can make the right decision.

1. The single-pole switch - this type of switch controls the power to the lights or electrical switches by switching off the “hot” side of the electrical current that goes to the switch and controls the current from only one point. These are installed in an electrical box with two terminal screws.

2. The double-pole switch - this type of switch controls the power to the lights and electrical switches in the same manner that the single-pole does, by switching off the “hot” side of the electrical current. The only difference in this switch and the single-pole is that the double-pole has four terminal screws that hold it in place.

3. The three-way switch - this type of switch controls the power to the lights and electrical switches by turning off the “hot” side of the electrical current as well. But, these switches control one electrical circuit from two different points, such as controlling a light from either the kitchen or the dining room. This switch is mounted in an electrical box as well, and has three terminal screws.

4. The four-way switch - this switch also controls the power to lights and electrical switches by turning off the “hot” side of the electrical current. The four-way works along with the three-way to control an electrical circuit from three or more points in the house or building. These have four terminal screws and sometimes have a green screw to ground the circuit.

5. Specialty switches - there are all types of specialty switches to choose from:

1. Outdoor switch - these have a weatherproof box cover that allows them to be placed outside.

2. Delayed action switch - these keep the circuit open for a few seconds or minutes after the switch is shut off. This type of switch is good for garages, workshops, or any other type of place where you might need a minute or so to get to the exit after turning off the light switch.

3. Rocker switch - these switches operate on the same principle as a regular switch, but instead of a toggle switch, these have a rocking action.

4. Illuminated switch - these have a small light that is set in the base of the switch to allow you to find it in complete darkness. This is a great switch for children's rooms, hallways, stairwells, and other places where the switch is not right inside the doorway.

5. Motion switch - these switches turn on with motion. These are great for entryways or for security.

6. Dimmer switch &- these switches allow you to adjust the brightness of the lights by turning a dial.

There are several other types of switches available, these are only a few of the most popular. Be sure to check with your local hardware store for the types of switches that they sell. But, no matter what type of switch you choose for your next lighting project, you now have a basic understanding of what types are available and what might work the best for you.

WARNING: When working with electricity, it is always best to completely turn off any electrical circuits that you will be working with before you begin your work. Always follow all safety precautions and directions on the packaging of electrical products that you are working with to prevent injury.

Read full article at HandyHouseholdHints.com

Featured Local Company

Akeena Solar

(310) 770-0172
22661 Lambert Street., Suite 204
Glendale, CA

Read more about How To Choose The Right Light Switch

- New Switch Installation California

Are you trying to replace a switch in your home? If so, read the following article for some instructions.

- Ceiling Fan Options California
- Do It Yourself Dimmer Switch Installation California
- Tips on Choosing Window Blinds California
- Choosing an Environmentally Friendly Light Bulb California
- How To Wire A Light Switch California
- The Beauty of Chandeliers California
- DIY Wiring For Light Fixtures California
- Replace a 3-Way Switch California
- Make a Room Look Larger California

Regional Articles

- The Beauty of Chandeliers California

Proper room lighting in your home is as essential as the furnishings. You can use chandeliers around your home as beautiful centerpieces and make bold and elegant statements. A chandelier in the entrance, foyer, dining room, and vanity room makes a statement about you. Adding a chandelier with matching sconces adds beauty and drama and surrounds you with warmth and security in the bedroom and master bath. Whether you choose a romantic or dramatic chandelier as the focal ...

- Do It Yourself Dimmer Switch Installation California
- Choosing an Environmentally Friendly Light Bulb California
- How To Wire A Light Switch California
- Make a Room Look Larger California
- Ceiling Fan Options California
- New Switch Installation California
- DIY Wiring For Light Fixtures California
- Tips on Choosing Window Blinds California
- Replace a 3-Way Switch California

Related Local Events

Strategies in Light
Dates: 2/10/2010 - 2/12/2010
Location: Santa Clara Convention Center
Santa Clara, CA
View Details

APEC 2010
Dates: 2/21/2010 - 2/25/2010
Location: Palm Springs Convention Center
Palm Springs, CA
View Details

Holiday Tree Lighting at Rosewood Sand Hill
Dates: 12/3/2009 - 12/3/2009
Location: 2825 Sand Hill Road in Menlo Park (near Interstate 280)
Menlo Park, CA
View Details

Light Show West
Dates: 10/21/2009 - 10/22/2009
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center
Los Angeles, CA
View Details

SOLAR POWER 2009
Dates: 10/19/2009 - 10/22/2009
Location: San Jose McEnery Convention Center
San Jose, CA
View Details

Advertising	Food & Beverage	Nightlife
Business Services	Franchise	Online Database
Career	Health	Pets
Cars	Holidays	Real Estate Resources
Computer Hardware	Home Appliances	Retail & Consumer Services
Construction	Home Electronics	Software
Education	Home Services	Technology
Entertainment	Industrial Goods & Services	Telecommunications
Environmental	Insurance	Trade Shows
Family	Internet	Travel
Fashion	Legal	Weddings
Financial Services	Miscellaneous	World History

Advertising	Family	Home Services	Real Estate Resources
Business Services	Fashion	Industrial Goods & Services	Retail & Consumer Services
Career	Financial Services	Insurance	Software
Cars	Food & Beverage	Internet	Technology
Computer Hardware	Franchise	Legal	Telecommunications
Construction	Health	Miscellaneous	Trade Shows
Education	Holidays	Nightlife	Travel
Entertainment	Home Appliances	Online Database	Weddings
Environmental	Home Electronics	Pets	World History