Electric toggle switches come in an almost endless variety for almost endless uses. Wall toggle switches operate lighting and outlets in virtually every home, business and industrial site. Bat handled electrical toggle switches operate machinery and some electronics. Rocker switches almost exclusively operate electronics, though some wall switches are rockers.
When choosing an electrical toggle switch, especially in the case of industrial toggle switches, there is a long list of variables to consider. The main variable of a toggle switch is the amperage rating. Installing a switch with an inadequate rating for the circuit load is a safety issue, while buying a toggle switch with an unnecessarily high rating is seldom cost efficient.
Some guidelines apply to all toggle switch selections:
1. Know your needs in detail before you buy toggle switches.
2. Consult with an electrician if necessary; don’t guess on electrical switches.
3. Be prepared to spend extra money for specialty toggle switch situations.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Plan ahead and buy toggle switches in bulk
Knowing everything you need before you shop for electric toggle switches can save you money.
I recommend: If you have a big project on your hands, don’t buy a few items at a time. Review your plan and make a list of everything you'll need. This way you can save on shipping, and if your order is large enough you may be able to buy in bulk. One hundred count boxes from
Electrical Marketplace translate to a per-unit price that is substantially lower than buying a single toggle switch.
Choose the right toggle switches for your project
Industrial and business settings require more care than home construction.
I recommend: Home construction is fairly standardized and few circuit loads are high. There are fewer variables and moderately priced electric toggle switches will do the job well. Business, and especially industrial settings, require a wider variety of electric toggle switches. At
Digi-Key it is easy to select the parameters you are looking for and find the appropriate switch. If you need answers, try
Digi-Key Live Help.
Shop the right electric toggle switch provider
Not all providers are the same, so buy toggle switches from sources that are appropriate for your particular needs.
I recommend: Electrical Marketplace is good for home and some business construction, but look to
MSC for industrial applications. Their selection is broad, they ship out quickly and their website is relatively easy to use.
Grainger is good too. Narrowing things down on their website can be a little difficult, but don’t hesitate to compare prices. In the case that you are looking for rocker switches, then
Cherry is an excellent choice.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Use a portable meter to test the continuity on expensive toggle switches before replacing them.
The official source of Toggle Switches is the Toggle Switches page at Business.com
Related Resources from Business.com
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