Types of Light Switches and Dimmers

A light switch opens or closes an electrical current to turn on a light fixture, ceiling fan or similar electrical device. Select a light switch that is compatible with the circuit where it will be installed. For example, if a light is controlled by one switch, you’ll need to replace it with a single-pole switch.

Toggle: A toggle light switch is the most common style. It has a single toggle that sticks out from the faceplate. The toggle is switched up or down to turn the light on or off.

Rocker: A rocker light switch operates in the same way as a toggle switch, but the design differs. It is wider and flatter than the toggle switch. It also requires less pressure to operate, making it a good switch style for accessibility.

Push-Button: The push-button light switch style is an older design than the toggle switch, but enjoys resurgences of popularity from time to time.

Touch Light: The touch light switch relies on capacitance to operate. Touching the surface alters the electrical field between the touchpad's outer surface and the inner surface, which causes the light to trigger.

Single Pole: A single pole light switch is the most common type of switch. It controls one fixture from a single location. It is easy to install or replace, and there are a variety of colors and styles available.

3-Way: A 3-way switch controls one fixture from different locations. It is often used in stairways, halls and large rooms. It is slightly more complicated to install.

4-Way: A 4-way switch controls one fixture from three locations. It is commonly used in large rooms. One 4-way switch must be used with two 3-way switches in a 4-way circuit. This is also more complicated to install than a single pole switch.

Multi-Location: A multi-location switch controls one fixture from three or more locations. Use in large spaces where having multiple controls adds convenience and safety. This is more complicated to install than a single pole switch.

Personalize the switches in your home to meet specific needs such as timers, motion sensors, time delays and more.

Timer:

• Allows you to program activation time.
• Provides security while out of town or returning home after dark.

Motion Sensor:

• Activates lights when motion is detected in a room and turns off lights automatically.
• Offers convenience of a no-touch lighting system and may help save on energy costs.

Switch/Receptacle Combo:

• Combines a switch and an outlet in one.
• Ideal for locations where additional outlets are needed.

Time-Delay:

• Allows power to flow to a fixture for a set amount of time.
• Shuts off automatically when set time has elapsed.

Dimmers make it easy to adjust the brightness level and change the lighting moods. They provide flexible lighting options, save energy and extend the life of light bulbs.

• Single-pole dimmers are designed for lights controlled from a single dimmer in one location.
• Three-way or four-way dimmers are designed for lights controlled by a single dimmer and one or more switches in other locations.
• Multi-location dimmers are designed for lights controlled by multiple companion dimmers, allowing for full dimming control from four or more locations.
• Plug-in dimmers are designed to dim the bulbs of table and floor lamps.
• Smart dimmers allow you to control lights from a smartphone or other smart device. Some models of smart dimmers include programmable timers. Scene selectors feature multiple buttons so that you can choose pre-set lighting levels.
• Some dimmers are rated for dimmable energy-saving bulbs such as LED and CFL bulbs. Make sure to match the correct dimmer with the lamp using the LED fixture.