A double light switch is a practical and functional solution. When is it worth using it and what to remember when installing it? Check what cables to choose to connect a double switch.
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Correct connection of a double light switch
A double light switch is a very practical solution if it is to control the correct operation of lighting. It is used when two circuits are to be operated with one device. In order for the whole thing to work correctly, the element of the system must be connected correctly.
When working with electricity, safety must be taken care of first. Therefore, all work should be started by turning off the power in the circuit. Standardly, 4 wires are used in the electrical installation:
- phase (L),
- output cables (L1, L2),
- neutral wire (N) and
- protective conductor (PE).
Each of them has a different role, and to make work easier, they are in different colors. The phase wire (usually black or brown) is responsible for feeding the current to the switch. The output wires can also be black or brown, although other colors are also used, according to the adopted nomenclature. They are used to connect two independent lighting circuits (including lamps, for example). On the other hand, the neutral and protective wires are not connected to the switch, but to the lamps.
The basis for installation is the correct identification of cables and their correct connection. In double switches there are appropriate terminals. One of them is the input terminal, allowing the connection of the phase wire. The other two are used to connect the output wires. Each of them is connected to the appropriate device (separate lamp or lighting systems).
The connection itself shouldn't cause many difficulties, because the elements are usually marked correctly. Thanks to this, the risk of making a mistake and incorrect connection is small. After connecting the wires correctly to the places indicated on the switch, the whole thing should be carefully placed in the electrical box and then secured with screws. Finally, the frame and keys should be attached.
What to remember when connecting a double light switch?
The installation is not too complicated, but there are a few key issues to keep in mind. The most important is of course the safety of the person connecting and others in the room.
When installing a double switch, it is very important to correctly identify the wires, which is not a difficult task for an electrician. The connection is made according to the diagram. It is worth being especially careful in old buildings, where the color of the cables will not necessarily match the adopted nomenclature.
Following the instructions will help you avoid many problems, and controlling the lighting will make everyday life easier. These types of solutions are installed in various places in homes and public utility buildings. They are great for example in the bathroom, in the corridor or as a staircase switch , although they are also often used in a room, where controlling the lighting helps to ensure the light output is adjusted to the activities currently being performed.
Cables for connecting the light switch
When installing a surface-mounted switch , a double staircase switch , a bathroom switch or any other model, the most important thing is to correctly identify the input and output wires. Especially since they can be the same color. Installing a double switch is no more complicated than when a single model is mounted, because the most important thing is to correctly connect the cables to the circuit.
Currently, the lighting installation uses copper cables with a cross-section of 1.5 mm. This value is in line with the currently adopted standards and is fully sufficient for the needs of the lighting circuit. In Poland, the applicable standard is PN-IEC 60364. Special attention should be paid to ensure that the cables used have the appropriate certification. Thanks to this, you can be sure that they will allow for safe operation of the lighting system.
Check out the double light switches at the Onninen wholesaler