Switches & Sockets

If you've been given a list of electrical switches, knowing what each one is and why exactly you need it can be overwhelming. Because of this, we've broken down the most common switch types:

• Single Switch: The most common electrical switch out there - one single switch to control one single light or appliance. 
   
• Multi-gang Switch: This is where you have more than one switch on a panel, each controlling a separate light. 
   

• Dimmer Switch: Let's you create the perfect home ambience and save energy by controlling how bright your light shines. This can be in the form of:

  • Single dimmer switch
  • 2 Gang Dimmer Switch
  • 3 Gang Dimmer Switch
  • 4 Gang Dimmer Switch
  • 5 Gang Dimmer Switch
  • 6 Gang Dimmer Switch

   

• Appliance Switch: These are typically used on appliances without built-in power buttons to turn them on or off. Some of the most common applications they'd be suitable for include ovens, microwaves, hobs, dishwashers and more. Kitchen grid switches are great for convenient power access to multiple appliances. 
   
• Master Switch: These allow you to control multiple lights, or switches, from one main switch and are ideal in environments where you need to switch all the lights off at once, such as next to your bed. 
   
• Intermediate Switch: Allows you to control a light from multiple switches in a room. For example, you can turn on the hallway light as soon as you enter your house, and when you leave the hallway, you can turn it off with the switch at that end. The most common is a 2-gang intermediate switch; however, 3-gang and 4-gang intermediate switches exist if you require more light switches. 

Of course, there are other switches out there, so if you are unsure which you need for your home, please contact us today, and we can assist you. 

Compatibility Issues To Keep In Mind

If you're installing a light switch yourself, there are some compatibility issues to keep in mind:

• Dimmer switches: The dimmer switches are ONLY compatible with trailing-edge LED light bulbs (Not compatible with leading-edge LED light bulbs). Please check that the bulbs you are using are compatible with the dimmer before purchasing. 
• Amperage rating: Make sure the switch's amp rating is enough to support the total bulb wattage it controls - if you exceed the rating, you risk overloading the circuit.

Stay Protected

While replacing a single-pole light switch can be a relatively easy task, especially if you have some basic DIY & electrical knowledge, installing anything more than this will become increasingly difficult.

This is because you're dealing with more complex wiring.

Because of this, we always recommend hiring a professional electrician who knows what they're doing and how to do it safely. 

Most of our electrical switches & wall sockets are from British General (BG) - one of the biggest and most trusted UK electrical product manufacturers. If anything does go wrong, whether it's due to faulty materials or workmanship, you'll stay protected for 25 years from the date of delivery. 

Why Buy Switches & Sockets from Masterlec?

At Masterlec, we go above and beyond to supply the highest quality electrical switches & sockets to customers across the UK. 

With exclusive discounts & unbeatable prices you won't find elsewhere, we're confident you'll be happy with your purchase. 

What's more, you'll receive free UK-wide delivery if you spend more than £50 on your order. Take advantage of great deals today and shop online from Masterlec.

Need help with your order or unsure which is right for you? Contact us today, and our expert team will be happy to help.