Choosing The Right Switch From Electrical Switches Suppliers

Choosing electrical components is a very crucial step in every wiring project. Going to the store to buy a switch, socket or circuit breaker isn’t just any other shopping trip. There are many factors that you’ll need to keep in mind before deciding which item will work best for you.

The size of cables you buy from electrical cable suppliers, for instance, is determined by the expected power consumption of the circuit. But this factor doesn’t only apply to cables. Other components like sockets, switches and circuit breakers are also chosen based on the amount of current the load is expected to draw.

This article will discuss all important tips you should consider when choosing an electrical switch. Jump right in!

Consider the type of the switch

There are two main types of switches in the market: conventional and modular. Conventional switches are the oldest ones in the market, and their undoing is the fact that they have exposed metallic screws and wiring. As such, there’s a very high probability of the user experiencing electric shock or any other related mishappening.

Modular switches, on the other hand, are upgrades to the old conventional devices. They’re a lot safer as no metallic part or wiring is exposed to the user. These switches also feature modern designs which complement the current interior design trends. The fact that they’re made from plastic makes them easy to install. So, as you choose your switches, it’s recommended that you go for these latest types. (2)

Pay attention to the current rating

Once you’ve decided which type of switches you’ll buy, it’s important that you take a keen interest on their current ratings. As mentioned earlier in the article, the expected power consumption of the circuit determines a lot of things, and switches are among the variables.

Electrical suppliers understand that users need these components for different purposes and, therefore, have a selection for various current ranges. Before you decide on which current rating you should choose, it’s imperative that you understand your circuit. What type of appliances will be powered by the circuit? What’s the estimated power consumption of the system?

Your answers to these questions will help you make the right and safe choice. Generally, lights and fans will work well with a switch rated 6Amps or 10Amps. The TVs, coolers and heavy lights should use 16A/20A switches, while 25A/32A should be installed for air conditioners and other heavy appliances you’d buy from electrical motor suppliers. (1)

Ensure that the switch meets local regulations

Safety is paramount when it comes to electrical wiring, and it starts with your choice of components. To protect yourself and other users from accidents, it’s important that you purchase switches that meet the desired safety standards.

Remember, the ratings of the power grids may vary from one country or region to another. For this reason, it’s important that you buy an electrical component that meets the regulations set within your area. Of course, it can be difficult assessing which option is safer than the other, especially for someone who isn’t knowledgeable in this field. But buying such products from licensed electrical suppliers will guarantee your safety. (3)

Check the design

The design of the switches you choose is very important because these components are always visible on the wall. You would want something that doesn’t only look good but also complements your home’s décor. The good thing is that switch manufacturers offer a wide range of options when it comes to design.

So, what are some of the things you should consider when choosing the design of your switch? The first factor to keep in mind is the interior design of the house. Whatever you install should blend in with your wall colours and art. It’s also imperative that you keep in mind the current trends because this will make it easier for you in case you decide to update your décor in the future.

Conclusion

Choosing an electrical switch may seem like an easy task but there are a lot of factors that must be considered. Most switches today are modular, so it shouldn’t be difficult to decide on the type of component you want. The current ratings, however, is one thing that many people tend to forget. Assess and understand the types of appliances included in your circuit as this will determine the size of the switch you’ll need.

It’s also important that you consider the aesthetic side of things. The design of whichever switch you choose should complement the interior design of your house. While at it, don’t forget to buy these components from licensed electrical switches suppliers.

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