Different Types of Light Switches for Light Fixtures

In your house you’ve probably got light fixtures galore: bathroom lights, kitchen lights, ceiling lights and maybe even some pendant lights or wall sconces. With so many different fixtures present, it may be a surprise to realize you’ve probably never stopped to think about the light switches attached to each and every one. When decorating your home, you should consider everything in the room right down to the light switch.

The toggle switch is perhaps the most commonly used light switch in homes today. This particular switch can be flipped either on or off in either a horizontal or vertical fashion. The portion you switch on or off is known as the toggle. Toggle switches work by breaking the flow of electricity to the light fixture, thus shutting it off. These light switches can be attached to any type of light fixture, including pendant lights, track lights or outdoor lights.

A dimmer switch is another light switch commonly found in homes. Typically the dimmer switch is used in a bedroom or dining room for ceiling light fixtures, however it can be used anywhere in the home as the owner sees fit. The difference between a toggle switch and a dimmer switch is that while a toggle switch completely cuts off the flow of electricity, a dimmer switch simply adjusts the amount of electricity sent to the light fixture.

A motion switch is a light switch that activates whenever it detects motion. Typically, these are found on outdoor lighting as they are ideal for use in walkways, entryways and other areas that may require some security.

Typically, motion switch light fixtures are also attached to a secondary switch, such as a toggle switch, so that the fixture can be turned off during the day when it is not useful.

A proximity switch works in a similar fashion to the motion switch. When the person enters the room, the light switches on. After the person leaves the room, the light switches back off. For this type of switch, there is no actual ‘switch’ that the owner must touch in order to operate the lighting fixtures. Furthermore, the proximity switch is growing in popularity as it helps to save energy.

A bit more advanced and scientific, the photoelectric light switch uses a sensor to measure light levels in the room. As the light changes, a photoelectric switch adjusts so as to maintain an even amount of light throughout the day.

Typically, photoelectric light switches are found on outdoor lighting, such as street lights or lamp posts. Recent advances in the technology have prompted manufacturers to start offering this type of light switch for interior spaces as well as outdoor spaces around the home, such as in landscaping lighting.

The push button switch is perhaps among the more commonly found types of light switches. Simply put, the push button works by pushing the switch either into an off or on position as needed, hence the term ‘push button switch.’ These light switches utilize a spring mechanism that either connects or breaks the flow of electricity to operate the light fixture.