10 Things to Consider When Buying Double gang European deisgn lighting switch

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. 

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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:

1. A backplate is recessed into a wall 
2. The electrical wiring is housed inside the backplate 
3. 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. 

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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. 

Before buying  a new dimmer or switch, there are a few things to consider:

1. Functionality and Features: Determine the type of switches you need (e.g., single-pole, three-way, dimmer, smart switches, timers, motion sensors). Consider additional features like dimming capabilities, compatibility with smart home systems, and programmable settings.

2. Number of Switches or Dimmers: Count the number of switches you'll need for each room or area. Take note of any multi-gang switch boxes (those with multiple switches in one unit) to ensure compatibility.

3. Aesthetics and Design: Choose a design and color that complements the room's decor and matches the wall paint or switch plate covers. Common colors include white, ivory, almond, and black. Decide between traditional toggle switches, rocker switches, or touch-sensitive switches based on your preference and the room's style.

Product CollectionAvailable Colorsadorne CollectionWhite, Magnesium, Graphite, Nickelradiant CollectionWhite, Magnesium, Graphite, Red, Brown, Nickel, Black, Dark Bronze, Grey, Ivory, ClearSmart Lighting with NetatmoWhite, Magnesium, Graphite, Nickel, Light Almond  

4. Compatibility and Integration: If you're considering smart switches, ensure they're compatible with your existing smart home ecosystem (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit). Check compatibility with the type of bulbs you plan to use to avoid compatibility issues or flickering.

5. Energy Efficiency: Look for energy-saving features such as timers, motion sensors, or programmable dimming settings to help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

6. Grounding Requirements: Check the grounding requirements for your switches and dimmers, especially if you're replacing older switches or installing them in older homes. Ensure that your electrical boxes are properly grounded. In some cases, you may need to install a ground wire or use a grounding pigtail to connect the switch to the grounding system.  Most 3-way switches use 3 screw terminals (one common and two traveler terminals) in addition to its grounding screw. A single-pole switch only uses two.

Before Installing a new dimmer or switch, there are a few steps you need to take:

1. Decide the bulb type: (Dimmers only) Different types of bulbs require different types of dimmers. Decide which bulbs you plan to use and make sure your bulbs are compatible with the dimmer switch you plan to install. For example, LED bulbs require a specific type of dimmer switch that is designed to work with LED technology.


2. Check the wattage: (Dimmers only) Dimmer switches are rated for a specific wattage range. Make sure your bulbs are within the wattage range recommended for the dimmer switch you plan to install. Using bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage can cause the dimmer switch to overheat and fail. Our Dimmers range from 150 watts to 1,600 watts. You can check your home’s wattage range using a wattmeter or power meter, which are widely available at hardware stores or online retailers.  


3. Check the wiring: Make sure the wiring in your home is compatible with the type of dimmer switch you plan to install. The Hot or Common Wire (usually black, might be connected to a black screw on the switch itself); the Neutral Wire; and the Ground Wire (usually a bare, copper wire). Note that for 3-way switches, additional Traveler Wire(s) will be present.


4. Test the current switch: If you're not sure whether your current switch is compatible with a dimmer switch, you can test it by installing a dimmer switch on a single light fixture and observing the results. If the dimmer switch works properly, it should smoothly adjust the brightness of the light. If it flickers or doesn't work properly, it may not be compatible. Try flipping the switch itself and breaking out the voltage tester. For your safety, no further action should be taken until you are positive all power to the switch has been turned off.


5. Installing your new switch: Before beginning any installation, always turn off power to the area where you will be working at the breaker. This will ensure that no electricity is flowing to the wires or devices you will be handling and will prevent the risk of electrical shock. Note that turning off the switch for a particular room may not be enough, as power may still be flowing to other areas of the room or adjacent rooms. Always turn off power at the breaker to ensure complete safety. 

**Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. Each wiring device is unique and may have specific instructions for proper installation. Failing to follow these instructions can lead to improper wiring, which can be dangerous and may not function correctly. Manufacturer instructions may also include specific safety guidelines, such as recommendations for handling wires or tools or avoiding certain hazards. 

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