Learn how to install 12 different types of switches, plugs, and receptacles in your home.
There’s more to a light than just a flip of the switch.
A responsible homeowner understands thedifferent types of switchesand how they work.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, learn about nontraditional receptacles and switches and how they function.
Installing Combination Switches
These devices combine two functions.
Correctly installed, they’re just as safe as two individual switches.
Combination switches are always installed withthrough-switch wiringand never with end-line wiring.
That means two or three cables enter the box.
Your choice in combination switches was once limited to a switch and a receptacle or switch and a switch.
What You Need
Double Switch
Squeeze two switches into the space of one.
Three cables enter the box: One brings power, the other two run to separate fixtures.
Connect the grounds and splice all the neutral (white) wires together.
Attach the feed wire to a terminal with the connecting tab.
Connect the other two black wires to terminals on the side with no tab.
Connect the power wire to the brass terminal with the connecting tab.
Attach the black wire from the switched fixture to the brass terminal with no connecting tab.
Switch-Controlled Receptacle
To have the switch control a middle-of-run receptacle, connect the grounds.
Splice all the white wires together.
Attach the black feed wire to the brass terminal that is not attached to the connecting tab.
Attach the outgoing black wire to one of the black terminal screws next to the connecting tab.
it’s possible for you to also adjust the brightness at any time with the slider.
To control speed and light levels without significant rewiring, however, you could use a remote switch.
Replace the existing switch and attach a module to each fan.
Combination Switch with GFCI
This is a variation of the old switch/receptacle combination.
It remains on for a length of time you select.
A manual override lets you turn the light on and leave it on for as long as you like.
Triple Switch
Sophisticated lighting schemes call for more switches.
A line of switches on the wall can detract from the room’s style.
Traditional double switches cut the space consumed in half, but triple switches are even better.
Did you remember to turn off the garage light?
Is the on-at-dusk light going to come on at dusk or did you accidentally flip the cutoff switch?
If it’s on, so is the power.
