From switches colours, the types of switches, switch box, fuse, socket to the electric switch price – there is plenty to consider in selecting the best switches for home. And we did not even mention the brands and various styles yet!
Yes, switches may sound like a utility item for your home interior design. But let me tell you a secret – an electric switch is also a great way to add some style into your home. Think about it; the light switch is one of the most used and looked at the item in your day to day routine. So, let’s explore the switches as an essential utility item that is also a wall décor item.
Switches for Home
Don’t go by the size of a switch – it is a humble-looking, tiny fitting. The small panel is one of the most useful additions in your entire home. You see, a switch brings the comforts of electricity to your place. Lights, fan, security systems, cooking appliances and every electric convenience is at your fingertip because of the switches fitted at your home. Let’s explore more of electrical switches and sockets now.
For a comfortable living, our home needs a long list of electric fittings and appliances. And every electrical equipment has a specific requirement for the supply of power. This requirement also decides the type of switch and socket required.
Types of Switches
The home electric switches are divided into light and power inputs. For instance, a water heater or a microwave oven works on the power supply; while a light fitting or your television unit requires light supply. The main difference between the power and light in the amount of electric voltage – power being the higher volt. Now, as is likely, the switches are different for light and power supply. Here is a table to explain the available options.
| Type | Use | Build |
| 6A Switch | Lights, fans | Modular |
| 6A Socket | Phone charger, Hair dryer, shaver | 2/3/5 pin |
| 16A Switch | Air conditioner, Water heater, Pumps | Trip |
| 16A Socket | Room heater, Oven | 3 pin |
Electric switch price
Types of switches help you understand the electrical need, and there is more to each model. A regular single switch comes with double fuse, single fuse and also a LED light. Moreover, the single switch also offers various functions such as a one-way switch, two-way switch, and doorbell switch. Same is true for the sockets. The switch prices vary as per the features offered.
Parts of Switch
Now, the switches are a part of a more extensive electrical system. This system comprises of many parts that come along with the switches as a package. Without the complete package, your switches may not function.
Typically, the electric switches are installed with:
a. Switch
b. Switchplate
c. Switch fuse unit
d. Switch box
e. Electric wires and conduits
The basic types of switches used in a regular home are:
a. One-way switch
b. Two-way switch
c. Indicator switch
d. Door-bell switch
e. Trip switch
Switches as per function
One-way switch
This is your regular on-off switch which is used in most locations at your home.
One-way switch with 3-pin socket 
Doorbell Switch with Two-way Switch
Two-way switch
A two-way switch is a regular switch but with one variation. It allows you to operate the same fitting from two different locations. Widespread use of two-way switch is the bed light switch.
Doorbell switch
A one-way switch with a built-in spring feature. When the switch is pushed in on-position, it automatically goes back to off position.
Indicator Switch
A regular one-way switch fitted with a small LED indicator light in red colour. The red-light glows when the switch is in on-position. It is commonly used for switches that operate electric appliances like mixer or water heater.
Fan regulator, One-way Switch, Telephone socket 
Tiny trip switch, AC switch and socket
Trip switch
A trip switch is used to operate the power supply to large electrical appliances such as water heater, air conditioner or water pumps.
Switches colours
Home switches are not all about the electric power; there is also a fun side of selecting switches colours and styles. Today many brands are in the market – such as North-west, Havells, Anchor, Legrand. Each company offers a unique style, product and price range. North-west is an excellent choice for a simple white scheme where switches match the wall colour. For a contrast scheme, Anchor and Havells offer a variety of switch colours. Also, most brands have metallic shades of switches and switch plates for a luxurious look. It is common practice for brands to introduce a new range of colours once a year or so. Before you buy, remember to check the company website for the latest products.
Choosing the Best Switches
How to choose the best switches?
- Make a list
List out all the electrical appliances and fittings required at your home
- Find the switch type
Check the required switch type for every electric item
- Find the quantity
Count the total number of switches required in each room or area
- Decide the function
Select a feature function for each switch such as one-way, two-way, indicator
- Switches colours and style selection
Pick a style – such as colour and finishing – to match your home’s interior design
- Organise the switches in switch plates
For every room, assemble the switches and sockets on a switch plate.
Step 1 – Make a list
Before we get into choosing the switches and sockets, it is vital to understand the need of your home. Start with making a list of all the electricals in your home. Make sure to include every light fitting, appliance and electronics. Also, it is handy to list the electricals as per room; a table format is useful for this. For your reference, here is a standard list for a typical Living room.
Step 2 – Find the type
Next, you need to look at the electronic fittings and appliance to check the required switch type. Do note, your home’s requirement may vary, and you must double-check with an electrician.
Step 3 – Find the quantity
Here, you have to put several switches or sockets for the list of electricals. Now, you can choose to control two tube lights with the same switch; or dedicate one switch for each fitting. The idea is to reduce the number of switches. I am sure you don’t want a wall that looks too crowded. While reducing switches, also ensure the safety from electric overloads. It is usual practice to combine two to three light tube or bulb fittings in one switch; while the regulator itself can operate ceiling fan. For reference, a regular bedroom requires 7 to 9 switches, one regulator, one tiny trip, and 2 to 3 sockets.
Step 4 – Decide the function
Switches have the primary purpose to on and off the electric supply. Apart from the basic use, nowadays, modular switches offer many more features. In this step, you should select a function for every switch on the list
Step 5 – Switches colours
The style and look of your switches can make a significant impact on the overall look of your home. A selection of whites, brown, black and metallic shades are available. You have a couple of style options here:
- Same style and colour in all rooms
- Varying style and colour as per room décor
- The same colour of switches and switch plates
- The contrast colour for switches and switch plates
Step 6 – Organize in plates
Now you have a selection of switches, the quantity, functionality, style and colours – it is time to organize these in different switch plates. Every room has many switches and sockets. Depending on the brand you choose, a variety of switch plates are offered. Take a look at the product range or double-check with your vendor.