When it comes to interior or lighting design, one of the last things people think about is switches. The general attitude is that they're functional devices for turning lights off and on, and that there's not much more to them. But there are different styles for different applications, and not all switches are equal for all people in all circumstances. Knowing what's available can help you to improve the practicality of your lighting setup.
Switches for all occasions
Aside from the traditional ‘rocker’ switches which will cost you a couple of dollars at your local hardware store, there are many other switches you could be using, such as unobtrusive architrave switches (perhaps for the bathroom), push-button switches, switches with dimmers included on the same faceplate, and even those that are specifically designed for the elderly and infirm.
The ‘rocker’ switch is by far the most common type of light switch and it is rare to find any significant number of other types of switches in Australian homes. The rocker switch itself doesn’t actually turn the light on; rather, when you tilt the switch past halfway, a spring forcibly closes the circuit with an audible ‘snapping’ sound. Aside from dimmer-based switches, all light switches work on the same principle – they close the electrical circuit and allow electricity to flow to the light.
Different types of light switches
While completely safe, some people don’t like the clicking song of the traditional rocker switch, which has led to the development of many other types of light switch. Below is a list of some of the switch types available:
- Push-button light switches, which serve the same function as rocker switches but eliminate the sound.
- Illuminated light switches, which allow people to find them in a dark room.
- Tamper-resistant switches, which offer the added security of needing a key to operate.
- Pull-chain switches, common in bathrooms, help to prevent electric shocks in wet areas.
Most of these types of switches are easily installed or retrofitted. If you have a special request or need, discuss it with your designer or electrician.
