Types of electrical components include single-pole, two-way, and bell switches, along with standard, power, and USB sockets, plus data and TV modules for communication needs.
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If you supply electrical components, you already know that each product serves a unique purpose.
Your clients rely on you to provide not just any switches and sockets but the ones that match their requirements.
Whether it’s a single-pole switch for a home or a power unit for heavy machinery, the right choice makes all the difference.
Here’s a closer look at the types of switches, sockets, and modules to help you build your inventory with confidence.
The Types of Electrical Switches
Switches are the backbone of electrical control, and each type has a specific use.
Single-Pole Switch
The single-pole switch is a staple in residential and commercial buildings.
It controls a single fixture from one location, making it ideal for lights and fans.
You’ll find these in toggle and rocker styles, with “on” and “off” markings for simplicity.
Two-Way Switch
Two-way switches, or three-way switches in the U.S., control a fixture from two locations.
They’re commonly used in staircases and long hallways where convenience is key.
These switches feature three terminals: one common and two interchangeable.
Double-Pole Switch
Double-pole switches manage two circuits from one location, handling higher current loads.
They’re great for heavy-duty appliances like water heaters or industrial equipment.
Intermediate Switch
Intermediate switches, also called four-way switches, control a fixture from three or more locations.
They’re ideal for large spaces like auditoriums or multi-story homes.
While more complex to install, they offer unmatched flexibility.
Bell Switch
Simple yet essential, bell switches operate doorbells and other signaling devices.
They’re easy to install and typically come with an indicator light.
The Types of Electrical Sockets
Sockets connect appliances to the power supply, and their features vary by application.
Standard 3-Pin Socket
This is the most common socket, suitable for general-purpose appliances.
It includes a grounding pin for safety, making it a reliable option for homes.
Universal Socket
Universal sockets support various plug types, including Type C, Type G, and Type I.
They’re perfect for international clients or projects requiring flexibility.
Power Sockets
Designed for heavy-duty use, power sockets handle higher current ratings, often up to 25A or more.
They’re commonly used for air conditioners, refrigerators, and other energy-intensive appliances.
USB-Enabled Socket
USB sockets simplify charging by eliminating the need for adapters.
They’re a popular choice for modern homes and offices focused on convenience.
The Types of Communication Modules
Modules extend functionality beyond basic power supply, connecting devices to communication systems.
Data Socket
Data sockets enable Ethernet and internet connections, making them essential for modern offices.
They support high-speed data transfer for seamless networking.
Socket
sockets connect landlines to telecommunication networks.
While less common today, they’re still in demand for certain setups.
TV Socket
TV sockets link televisions to cable or satellite providers.
They’re easy to install and ensure reliable signal transmission.
USB Modules
USB modules allow direct charging for electronic devices, reducing clutter in shared spaces.
Switch Banks and Their Applications
Switch banks are a convenient way to manage multiple circuits from a single control point.
They combine several switches into one unit, offering streamlined operation for complex setups.
Why Use a Switch Bank?
Switch banks are ideal for spaces requiring centralized control, like conference rooms or warehouses.
They save space by grouping switches into a single panel, reducing clutter on walls.
Another benefit is their ability to handle multiple circuits without needing separate installations.
Configurations to Stock
When stocking switch banks, consider the common configurations your customers may need.
For small-scale setups, 2-gang switch banks work well for basic lighting or fan controls.
For mid-sized projects, 3-gang configurations are versatile and can manage larger circuit loads.
4-gang or higher options are better suited for industrial facilities or expansive commercial spaces.
You can also offer both standard and modular designs to meet aesthetic and functional needs.
Who Needs Switch Banks?
Clients managing commercial spaces often require these solutions for streamlined operations.
They’re also a good fit for residential projects with high-end automation needs.
Stocking diverse configurations ensures you have something for every project size and complexity
Why Stock These Products?
Stocking a variety of switches, sockets, and modules meets diverse client needs. A healthy inventory helps in:
Catering to Residential Projects
Homebuilders often require standard switches and sockets that balance functionality with aesthetics.
Are you interested in learning more about 2 gang switch supplier? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Offering modular options lets clients customize finishes to match interiors.
Serving Commercial Needs
Commercial projects demand durable, high-capacity components like double-pole switches and power sockets.
These products ensure safety and reliability in high-traffic environments.
Supporting Technological Trends
As smart homes and offices grow, USB-enabled sockets and data modules are becoming must-haves.
Staying ahead of these trends keeps your inventory relevant.
Choosing The Right Products for Your Inventory
Your inventory should align with the demands of your market and clients.
- Focus on Quality: Stock products that meet international safety standards for reliability and peace of mind.
- Offer Modular Options: Modular components cater to clients seeking flexibility and customizability.
- Stay Ahead of Trends: Include smart sockets and USB modules to meet the growing demand for tech-friendly solutions.
How IGOTO Can Help Your Business
At IGOTO, we manufacture high-quality switches, sockets, and communication modules tailored for dealers like you.
We offer bulk orders with customizable options to suit residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Explore our catalog for innovative solutions designed to meet diverse client needs: IGOTO Catalog
Stocking IGOTO products means you’re offering safety, style, and functionality your clients can rely on.
Buying light switches seems like an easy purchase, but when faced with all the options, you may realise it’s not as simple as you think. So, before you buy, it’s worth doing your research to ensure you get the right switches for your needs.
This buying guide tells you all you need to know about light switches. It covers how they work, what ‘gangs’ and ‘ways’ mean and the types and styles of light switches available. We also look at other types of switches and give tips on fitting light switches and things to consider before buying.
Light switches are made up of three main parts:
- A backplate is recessed into a wall
- The electrical wiring is housed inside the backplate
- A faceplate is the visible part with the switch.
The wires within the switch are connected to the home’s consumer unit and light fitting through electrical cables hidden in the walls and ceilings. The faceplate is then wired to the backplate to form an electrical circuit. Flicking the switch to the off position breaks the circuit, so the light goes off.
There are many types of light switches available. Some only control a single light, while others can have multiple switches to control multiple lights from one place.
Homeowners or businessowners often replace their light switches simply because they want to update them to suit their room décor. But, for safety, they should be replaced if they’re showing any of the following signs of wear and tear:
- Crackling or popping sounds when the switch is on
- The switch or faceplate feels hot
- A delay between flicking the switch and the light coming on
- The switch feels loose
Smart Switch Types
Smart light switches are like standard light switches, but with the added benefit of internet connectivity. Using WiFi, they connect to an app on a smartphone or tablet and allow users to turn lights on and off any time, from anywhere, automate them with schedules or set timers. They can also be connected to other smart devices as part of a more extensive smart home system. Read our smart plugs and switches buying guide to find out more.
Smart light switches offer many benefits. For example, they can help reduce energy bills because users can check to ensure lights have been turned off when they’re not at home. Some even have built-in energy monitors. They also increase security as lights can be turned on remotely at night to deter burglars if no one is home. And they offer convenience because lights can be controlled with a voice command through a smart speaker.
Smart light switches are available with dimmer functions and come in 1 or 2-ways and up to 4-gangs.
Appliance Switch Types
Appliance switches are installed in kitchens, utility rooms and bathrooms. They are used to control power to appliances, such as cookers, washing machines and dishwashers. They’re typically installed in easy to reach areas, such as above a worktop because the location of the appliance would otherwise make access to the power source difficult.
There are many types of appliance switches available. Some come pre-labelled with the name of the appliance, making it quick to identify when the power needs to be switched off in an emergency. Pull-cord versions are available for bathrooms to control electric showers and extractor fans. Some faceplates combine appliance switches with a switched socket. And many come with red lights to indicate when the power is switched on. Appliance switches are available in a choice of styles and finishes, so a suitable switch can be found to suit any home’s décor.
Retractive Switch Types
itches are mainly used in commercial settings for operating door openings or bell systems. The switch is only on while the button is being pressed. Once the button is released, the switch automatically returns to its original position and goes off. In a home setting, these switches can be used, for example, to control electric garage door openings or in flats where a communal door needs to be opened to let visitors in.
Retractive switches look like standard light switches and come in various styles and finishes. Some retractive switches, designed for commercial use, have words such as ‘press to exit’ printed on them.
Switched Fused Spurs
A switched fused spur is another type of switch used for electrical appliances such as washing machines and boilers. It contains an individual fuse that protects the appliance it's directly wired to by breaking the connection if excess current is detected. As well as the fuse, these switches also have a rocker switch, so the appliance can be manually switched off as required.
Switched fused spurs are available in a choice of styles and finishes to suit any decor. Some come pre-labelled with the name of the appliance, making it quick to identify when the power needs to be switched off in an emergency. And many come with red lights to indicate when the power is switched on.
Outdoor Switch Types
Outdoor switches are installed on exterior walls and are used to control outdoor electrics such as lighting, water features and electronic gates. The switches are designed to be weatherproof, and they all carry an IP (ingress protection) rating to indicate how weatherproof they are. The IP rating is shown using the letters IP, followed by two numbers. The first number (a 5 or 6) indicates dust resistance, and the second number (a 5, 6 or 7) indicates water resistance. The higher those numbers are, the more resistant they are.
Outdoor switches are typically grey and have wide rocker switches, although some have standard switches. They are available with up to 4-gangs and 2-ways.
The most common light switches are white plastic. But there’s a wide range of other, more decorative colours and finishes available, so homeowners can match their switches to their décor.
For example, other light switch colours available from Screwfix include black, brown, cream, grey and blue. Then there are metal effect switches, such as steel, brass, bronze, chrome, copper, iridium, and silverl. These metal effects can come in different finishes, such as gloss, matt, antique, brushed, polished or satin. Finally, there are even some more unusual switches, such as glass switches and wood effect switches.
Switches also come with different profiles, describing how the switch stands out from the wall. For example, raised profiles with rounded or square edges stand a few millimetres out from the wall. There are slim raised profiles that stand out less. And there are flat profiles that are almost flush with the wall.
And finally, switches can be screwed or screwless. On screwed switches, the screws are visible. But a screwless switch has a clip-on faceplate which means there are no visible screws.
Fitting a light switch can be a simple or complex task, depending on what light switches you're replacing or adding.
For example, carrying out a like-for-like replacement of a 1-way switch is a simple task for a competent DIYer. It involves removing the faceplate of the old switch and fitting the new one. You can take a photo of the wiring in the old switch to make connecting light switch wires in the new one easier. Also, keep hold of the old screws – modern switches come with metric-sized screws, while old fittings use imperial-sized screws. So, you may need to use the old screws to fit the old backplate.
Three or two way light switch wiring may be more complicated. A like-for-like replacement should be easy for a competent DIYer. However, caution should be taken when working on multi-way switches. The lights they control should be connected to the same circuit, but there may be live cables on another switch if they're wired incorrectly.
Swapping a 1-way switch for a multi-way switch is more complicated. It involves replacing the original switch, installing other multi-way switches at the other control points, and running a cable between them to connect them. This is a job that's best carried out by a qualified electrician.
It’s always important to do your research before buying switches to ensure you’re getting the right product for your needs.
Here are four other things to consider:
1. How many separate light fittings do you want to control?
If you're planning to change or add switches throughout a home, it's worth thinking ahead about how many switches you need to ensure you get the right amount. Go from room to room and count how many lights need to be controlled. Then work out if any of these can be combined on a 2-gang, 3-gang or 4-gang switch and whether, in some cases, you need to control one light with multiple switches.
2. What colour or finish are you looking for?
White plastic switches are often the default switch people go for but consider if other colours and finishes would suit the décor better. For example, brushed or polished chrome or slate grey are perfect finishes to match contemporary décor. Or if the décor is more traditional, there’s antique brass or wood effects. Also, think about how the colours will complement or match other items in the room, such as appliances, door handles or window openings. And don’t forget, you can choose different colours and finishes for different rooms if necessary.
3. Do you want a dimmer switch?
Dimmer switches are ideal for rooms where people want to relax in softer light, such as living rooms and bedrooms. So, consider if a dimmer switch is needed. If so, ensure the light bulb used in the connected fitting is compatible with a dimmer switch. If not, simply change the light bulb.
4. Smart compatibility
If the home already has other smart devices installed (i.e., smart security, plugs, speakers etc.), smart switches can be connected to them to create automation. For example, you can set up an automation where the lights switch off automatically when a room is empty. If there are no other smart devices installed yet, consider what may be needed in future. Either way, always check that smart devices are compatible with each other.
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