Light Switches for Dummies

various light switches

We see some rather strange "questions" as we patrol the internet, and – more to the point – we see some even stranger freelance attempts to answer those questions. Most of the time the strangeness is a result of the freelancer's lack of familiarity with the topic. Sometimes it's more prosaic: the freelancer (sort of) understands the subject, but just doesn't get the question. We think that's what happened when Elizabeth McGrath pumped out the About.com post, "Tips for Identifying Light Switches in Your Home," now niched at TheSpruce.com.

Think about it for a minute: someone wants "tips for identifying light switches." Does your mind immediately run to thinking that the OQ wants to know the difference between a single-pole, double-pole, and three-way switches? Do you believe that the OQ needs to be informed about the difference(s) between push-button, toggle, selector, proximity, photoelectric, and dimmer switches¹? Do you get the notion that the OQ needs instructions on how to install a new switch?

Of course not... unless, apparently, you're McGrath. No, the first thing you think of is, "What the heck does this switch control, anyway?" Elizabeth never addressed that conundrum.

So here's our take: If you don't know what a given switch controls, the most likely answers are (in no particular order):

• Wall-mounted plugs. This is especially likely if some of the plugs in the room are mounted with the round ground hole at the top and some are mounted the other way.
• A ceiling or attic fan.
• A light fixture with a burnt-out bulb. 
• A light in another room, perhaps in a closet. Some electricians mount the wall switches for bathrooms outside the room.
• An exterior light, Try it again at night.
• The switch is faulty or, in very rare cases, is a dummy.

We have to say that we aren't sure it would be wise to take electrical advice from a freelancer who says things like,

"Some dimmers require special bulbs."

Ummm, Liz, it's the other way around: incandescent, fluorescent, and halogen bulbs require different dimmer technology.

"Push-button designs are less common than others. This design sports a button that connects or disconnects the circuit when pushed."

Most push-button light switches are found in pre-WW2 homes. They generally "sport" two buttons, not one: the top button is ON and the bottom is OFF. Apparently, our Dumbass of the Day couldn't be bothered to do the research. Feh.

¹ Elizabeth forgot rocker and slider switches...

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