Way Switches: If a light switch is ‘1 way’ this means it is just an on/off switch. This is the simplest type of switch that you can get. The single switch controls a single light (or lighting circuit)

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: 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.

Plate Switches and Ceiling Switches

Intermediate Switches: If you need to control the lights from three places, say you have 3 entrances to a large room and need a light switch next to each one, you will need an intermediate switch. The light(s) can be switched on and off from anyone of 3 places This is because if you only need a 1 way switch you can still use it by only connecting one of the terminals (L1 or L2) and common terminal. If the switch doesn’t work the way you want it to, you can either turn the switch around or swap the L1 and L2 terminal. Plate Switches and Ceiling Switches It’s always important to do your research before buying switches to ensure you’re getting the right product for your needs.

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. Ok thanks, but Just to clarify, I have 3 lights that i want 3 way control of, from the same 3 locations, so each switch needs to be 3 Gang, regardless of the location of the intermediate switches. Of course if there is a manufacturer selling 3 gang where 1 or 2 gangs are intermediate, and the remainder are 2 way then problem solved. 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. However, if you need two switches to control a single lighting circuit, in the same manner that you would have a switch at both the top and bottom of a staircase to control a landing/stairway light, you need to use what’s known as a 2 ‘way’ switch.

It is very important to be safe. Please have a look at our project on electrical safety before you begin any project. What is a 1 or a 2 gang light switch? 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. The rules on what you can and cannot do to the electrics in your home are extremely strict, however when it comes to changing light switch faceplates and a few others, you are allowed to do this without the assistance of a qualified electrician.

It is also possible to install or fit a variation on this theme by combining dimmer and "throw" switches on the same plate. You are then able to set the light to the required ambiance and turn it on and off. The ambiance setting is remembered by the switch but can be altered just like any other dimmer. When working on or around the electrics you are allowed to do yourself at home such as changing switch faceplates it’s essential that you know exactly what type of light switch does what so that, when changing them, you change like-for-like. 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. Here are step by step instructions on how to wire up a three way lighting circuit or to change a existing two way light circuit to a three way system, this is very useful on stairs etc. as you can have a switch at the bottom of the stairs and one at each end of the landing. Ensure the electricity is isolated before working on any electrical circuit! For three way switching you need a special light switch with 4 terminals, this is called a intermediate switch and is easily identifiable. You will also need two light switches that are "two way", these will have three terminals.Gangs and ways are the terms used to describe light switch connections. They tell you how many light fittings the switch can control and how many other switches control the same light. Here’s an explanation. On the whole 2 or 3 gang switches will always be 2 way switches. If you are buying switches and don’t know exactly what you need then it is often a good idea to get a 2 way switch anyway. With this in mind, this DIY project looks at the different types of light switch and what each should be used for. Rules and Regulations for Electrical Work Comprehensive range extends to toggle and dimmer switches plus data communication and all control applications

In this project we have been talking about plate switches which are the most common types of light switch that are used in peoples homes. A ceiling switch is mounted to the roof and is switched on and off using a pull cord – see our project on how to fit a pull cord switch. This prevents any water or moisture coming anywhere near any electrical source. When dealing with bathrooms or “special locations” as they are known, it is forbidden to wire a conventional switch within reach of a washbasin, bath or shower unit, so will need to use a ceiling switch in these circumstances, or put the plate switch outside the bathroom. Intermediate switches (or 3 way switches) are used when more than two light switches are needed to control one light.This is because he/she will have all of the necessary skills and knowledge to test the circuit and then issue a minor works certificate covering the work that’s been done. Failure to do this can invalidate your home insurance!