What is a ‘gang’?
When you look at a plug or light switch, how many control points does it have? If it is a double plug, it is 2-gang, the single plug is 1-gang. Same with a light switch, if you have one switch, it’s 1 unit, two switches, 2 units, etc.
What is 2 way?
This is a term for the operation of the switch. A 1 way switch just breaks the circuit when thrown, it only has one terminal live. A 2-way switch changes the hot connection from one terminal to another, allowing it to be connected to another 2-way switch, controlling one light from two positions.
What is the double pole?
The double pole is a safety feature on major electrical control points that breaks the connection of the live and neutral terminals, providing complete isolation, allowing maintenance of high power appliances.
What is an intermediate switch?
A middle switch is for when you need to control a light from three positions. Imagine you have a landing light that needs to be controlled from two ends of the landing and the bottom of the stairs, the switch in the middle of this circuit would be an intermediate.
What finishes are available?
There are so many more options than the standard white plastic swamp plates that adorn thousands of walls across the country. There are many metallic finishes available, some of the most common are;
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Brushed steel without stains
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polished chrome
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brushed chrome
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polished brass
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antique brass
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black nickel
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pearl nickel
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Painted White Metal (gloss or matte)
All metal finishes are available in thin plate depths from 5mm to super thin 1.5mm and with or without visible screws. It’s worth noting that these slim plates won’t fit in anything shallower than a 35mm deep back case.
Assembly regulations.
There are new UK regulations that apply to new build properties regarding the position of switches and sockets. All power outlets must be installed at least 450mm from the ground, while light switches must not be more than 1200mm from the ground. All points must also be a minimum of 350mm from any corner of a room. This is to allow ease of use by people with disabilities or wheelchair users. It is also recommended that sockets be placed about 100m from a work surface to allow enough clearance without damaging the hanging cord.