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When you think of remodelling your house or taking up a new project, you plan everything; from smart blinds and new electronics to stylish art pieces to go with your entire interior decor. However, we often tend to overlook the electrical switches. Though they may all appear the same on the outside, on the inside, switches can be categorised as single pole (SP) or double pole (DP) based on their functionality. What is a single pole switch and double pole switch? And what are the differences between single pole vs double pole? Read along to find out.
What is a single pole switch and how does it work?
A single pole switch is the most basic general-purpose switch that you use to control a light or another device from one location. These switches have two brass-coloured screw terminals connected to the hot power-source wires. One terminal functions as the incoming wire from the power source, and the other functions as the outgoing one to the fixture.
Most SP switches also have a ground terminal to connect the circuit’s ground wire. As a general rule, you connect the neutral wires to switches. If neutrals are present in the box, you join them to pass through the box without touching the switch.
What is a double pole switch and how does it work?
A double pole switch is generally used in industrial applications but can also be found in specific home wiring systems. The significant difference between a single pole vs double pole switch is that the latter has four brass terminals instead of two, with an additional ground terminal usually not found in SP switches.
The two terminals make it possible to connect two pairs of wires from a 240-volt circuit. DP switches are typically considered for 30 amps, allowing them to control power feeding higher-demand appliances and machinery.
The difference between single pole vs double pole switches
The primary difference between single pole vs double pole switches lies in their functionality. SP switches control one circuit, while double pole switches manage two circuits simultaneously.
Advantages of DP switches vs SP switches
Apart from accepting two pairs of hot wires, DP switches are different from SP switches in another essential manner. DP switches are rated for higher currents. The higher rating indicates that a double pole switch has larger terminals to adjust thicker wires.
Though the wiring in both the switches is essentially the same, you should ensure that the red and black wires are on two sides. Mixing them can be dangerous or may even lead to dysfunctional switches.
How to choose the right switch for your needs
For most general applications, a standard single pole switch does the job. For instance, if you need a switch to operate a light or fan, a single pole switch works best. On the other hand, for running devices at two locations, you would need a DP switch. Moreover, for a 120V power supply, you only need a single pole switch. In contrast, if you want to control a demanding electrical device, a double pole switch is what you require.
The commonly overlooked, electrical switches are critical components of your power management system. It is therefore vital to understand what is a single pole switch, what is a double pole switch, and how to choose one. And when we talk about efficient energy and power management devices, Schneider Electric India’s switches shine through. Their wide range of products has innovative features like natural materials and weatherproof sockets that play critical roles in better control, smooth functionality, and electrical protection of your home environment.
So wait no more and revamp your interiors with Schneider Electric India’s limit switches, light switches and electrical sockets, devised to fit every interior and exterior design seamlessly.
