A two-key switch for hidden wiring is the most popular type of such electrical structures. It is usually used to control luminaires with several lighting circuits, where it is required that the lamps burn alternately or all at once.
Advantages and disadvantages
The internal two-key switch has become widespread due to the large number of advantageous features.
Advantages of the device for hidden wiring:
- Only one cable is required during installation, thus saving on cable.
- When working in high humidity conditions, the structure is protected by a special casing. If the installation will be carried out in unfavorable conditions (industrial facilities, street), preference should be given to models made of shock-resistant materials.
- Significant savings in electricity consumption. The switch can be used to adjust the number of lights lit.
- A single switch represents a potential fire hazard, two-key modifications are also no exception, but there are fewer of them in the room, therefore, the probability of emergency situations is lower.
- It is possible to choose the optimal lighting brightness. Sometimes, the room requires a bright light, and sometimes twilight.
- Designed for use in high humidity conditions and outdoors. The body is made of high quality materials, protects the internal parts from moisture and mechanical stress.
It is also worth highlighting the ability to independently adjust the illumination due to the serial connection of individual lamps or groups of lamps.
There are practically no drawbacks. At first, confusion may arise as to which lamp or chandelier to turn on. Only a three-button switch can become a worthy alternative to such a device.
Device and principle of operation
The advantage of the double switch is its simple design. An electrical part consists of two moving keys, a shell or case and terminal blocks, to which current and voltage are supplied.
Sometimes screw terminals can be installed instead of terminal blocks. Their main difference is that the terminal blocks are pressed against the wires, and they are screwed onto the bolts. The first option is preferable because of the ease of connection and longer service life.
Ways to control lighting with a switch:
- It is possible to turn on only one light bulb or the first group of lamps by pressing one specific key.
- The lighting will change if you press the second key. As a rule, darker areas are illuminated and vice versa.
- The third option is to turn on all the lighting devices in the room at once, for this, two keys must be in the “on” position at once.
There are two-rocker switches, which consist of two single-rocker, but isolated structures. They are called modular. In addition to design, such devices can perform auxiliary functions: create a different atmosphere in the room and save energy.
Types, design and recommendations for selection
In hardware stores, there is a large assortment of two-button switches for hidden wiring.
Main types:
- dimmers;
- keyboards:
- rope;
- swivel;
- sensory;
- push-button.
Despite the emergence of improved versions, key switches are still in the greatest demand. They are made from different materials, they are characterized by different colors and shapes, textures. Also, switches can be traditionally square or oval, round. Most often, constructions are made from high-quality plastic and metal.
When choosing a double switch, you need to pay attention to the following technical characteristics:
- The quality of the materials from which the contacts are made.
- Materials used to make the case and keys.
- The presence of latches or buttons, build quality.
It is necessary to study the parameters that are fixed on the case.
When purchasing electrical products, it is recommended that you review the certification data.
The average cost of two-button switches ranges from 100-300 rubles. Most often, the underlying factor in pricing is the case design.
Installation and connection
Before proceeding directly with the installation and connection, you need to carefully study the structural elements and prepare all the necessary tools. For installation and connection you will need:
- knife;
- chisel;
- side cutters;
- indicator screwdriver;
- pliers;
- flat-blade screwdriver;
- level;
- crosshead screwdriver.
Device connection algorithm:
- De-energize the apartment, make sure with an indicator screwdriver that there is no voltage at the output.
- Prepare the wires, remove the insulating layer and strip the ends.
- Shorten three wires to approx. 10 cm.
- Using a chisel, make a small groove in the wall, where the wiring will later hide.
- Connect wires. Squeeze the stripped ends with pliers, then twist and carefully isolate.
- Lead the two ends of the wires to the lighting fixture.
- From the switchboard, extend zero to each phase.
- Put on the box so that the common contact is at the bottom.
Voltage is applied to check the functionality. During the performance of work, it is important to follow the personal safety precautions. If there are doubts about the quality of the work performed, it is better to contact electricians from the ZhEK, RES or the management company.
