Light switches are often overlooked when designing a new home because they are small and somewhat uninteresting. But they don't have to be.
Light switches can be a unique and captivating addition to your walls. To get the best out of them, choose the type, material, and placement of your light switch carefully.
Types of light switches
There are several types of light switches available - make sure you choose the right one for your specific preferences. Let's take a look at the main ones:
Toggle Switches
The toggle switch is possibly the most widely used light switch. It works with a lever that, when flipped up or down, completes or breaks an electrical circuit. Quite straightforward, no?
Rocker Switches
Rocker switches are the second most common switches out there. They have a larger surface area and work by pressing the switch down on one side to turn the light on or off. You can often find them on electrical appliances as they are easier to use.
Dimmer switches
Dimmer switches are used to control the brightness of the bulb so that you can set the perfect mood each hour of the day. Just make sure that your bulb is dimmable by looking for a symbol on the packaging or sometimes the bulb itself.
Here at Residence Supply, we really love our dimmer switches, as they add so much versatility to the overall lighting. If you are using dimmable LED bulbs, then definitely choose one of our classy but modern LED light dimming switches.
Push-button switches
The last main type of switch is push buttons which you simply push to turn on or off. These switches are best used in bathrooms and kitchens, where cleanliness is important, as they are more dirt-resistant and easier to clean.
Placement of light switch plates
If you are creating or redoing your home, you have the opportunity to fix some of your light switch placements. Consider placing them next to a door at a height of about 48 inches (120 cm) from the floor. This is easily accessible for most adults. Also, keep them at an even height around the home.
- For bedrooms, have an ambient light switch easily accessible from the bed. This will make late-night trips to and from the bed so much easier!
- For living rooms, consider dividing the room into multiple lighting zones with separate switches. For example, one switch could control overhead lights, while another could manage lamps or accent lighting.
- For kitchens, consider additional switches for task lighting over the countertop, stove, and sink. If your kitchen has an island, place switches on the ends for any pendant or under-cabinet lighting.
- For bathrooms, a switch should be placed just inside the bathroom door for the main ambient light. If there is a light around the mirror or vanity area, consider a separate switch near the sink for these lights.
- Finally, a hallway should have switches on both ends to ensure that it can be lit from both sides and no one will have to walk all the way through the hallway in darkness.
Unique light switch covers
The uniqueness of a light switch cover is determined by its color, texture, size, and overall aesthetic. When choosing a light switch cover, make sure that it blends in well with the rest of your home's design.
For example, you could choose the same material as your living room table or the same color as your kitchen countertop. This will make the switch cover pop more without looking out of place.
For the most unique light switch covers, check out our selection of brass light switches with amazing texture and color that will outlast your home. Or you can even create your own custom switch with us!
LED light dimming switches
LED dimmer switches are a must-have in any modern or even traditional home. LED dimmable lights are just so versatile and can be used to create the perfect mood at all times.
For your LED dimmers, make sure initially that your bulbs are dimmable. Otherwise, you may have unwanted flickering. To check if your LED is dimmable, keep the switch at full brightness and then slowly decrease it by 10-15%. This should be enough to figure out if the bulb is dimmable without stressing it too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use any bulb with a dimmer switch?
No, not all bulbs are dimmable. Make sure to use bulbs that are specifically labeled as dimmable with dimmer switches. This information is usually found on the packaging or the bulb itself.
2. How do I maintain my light switch?
All of our light switches are coated with a clear lacquer. No maintenance is required except for the bi-annual dusting.
3. How do I choose the right light switch cover?
Choose a light switch cover that matches or complements the design and materials of your home. Consider the color, texture, and style to ensure it blends in well with your decor. Also, feel free to reach out to us so we can help you with your decision!
4. What are the benefits of LED dimmer switches?
LED dimmer switches allow you to control the brightness of your lights, which helps set the perfect mood and save energy. They are especially useful in rooms where lighting needs vary throughout the day, such as the living room. However, we always advise you to use dimming switches in as many of your lights as possible for extra flexibility!
5. Can I install light switches myself?
Yes, you can install light switches yourself but always consult a professional if you are not certain of what you're doing. Turn off the power at the breaker, remove the old switch by unscrewing the cover plate and switch, disconnect the wires from the old switch, and connect the wires to the new switch: black to brass screws, white to silver screws, green/bare to ground screw. Then you can secure the switch in the wall and attach the cover plate. Turn on the power and test the switch.