Question how to connect a two-key switch Sveta seems to be a huge problem for many. There are no problems with a single-key switch, everything is clear and easy, but here many people have difficulties. In fact, the wolf is not as scary as it is portrayed. Connect a two-key switch Sveta as easy as hammering a nail into a wall. In this article we will look in detail at an example of such a connection. For the best perception of information and clarity of the example, we will use detailed comments supplemented with thematic photographs.
Before moving on to connecting a double switch, you need to have at least a superficial understanding of the structure of its mechanism, the purpose of the terminals and contacts on it, and if you wish, you can also inquire.
How does a two-key switch work?
Let's carry out short review and we will give you a general idea of this mechanism, and at the same time prepare for connection. When assembled, the switch has a familiar appearance for us, on the outside there is a frame and keys, but inside is what will interest us now. 
We need to get to the working mechanism, since basic manipulations will be performed with it. Remove the protective plastic elements. Using a flat-head screwdriver, we disconnect the keys; to do this, you need to carefully pry them off from the side or top. Some switches have special protrusions for these purposes.
Removing the frame is very simple, the latches can be easily unfastened by hand.
If the frame on your switch is attached differently, then they are usually diagonally located screws. Unscrew them and remove the frame.
The mechanism is ready for connection.
Connecting a two-gang switch
Now let’s look at which terminals and contacts are intended for what, and what we will connect where.
Currently, there are two main types of switches on the electrical goods market:
The first one, with conventional screw contacts.
The second, with self-clamping (plug-in) contacts.
Let's look at both connection examples.
How to connect a double light switch with plug-in contacts
Currently, this is no longer uncommon in the electrical goods market, and for beginners I would recommend this particular type of switch.
On back wall switch mechanism, there are contact designations, in some cases a connection diagram may also be shown.
Basic symbols contacts used on switches:
- "L", and two arrows down - "L" is a suitable supply phase, arrows are two outgoing phases
- 1, 2, 3 - 1 suitable supply phase, 1 and 2 two outgoing phases
- "L", 1, 2 - "L" suitable supply phase, 1 and 2 two outgoing phases
- On old Soviet switches and very bad Chinese ones, markings are not used; a visual, logical approach is needed here to find the required supply phase contact. As a last resort, you can use a dial indicator.
There is no diagram on our switch, but there are symbols.
“L” is the contact of the supply phase, the phase that goes to the switch is connected to it.
The arrows indicate the contacts of the outgoing phases. On the left are two contacts of one key, on the right is another, from them the phase, by means of switching the keys, is supplied to one direction or another (to different rooms, to different light bulbs in a chandelier).
To connect two key switch A three-core wire is always used, each core performs its own function. For clarity, it is best to use a wire with multi-colored cores; this will speed up the connection process and you are guaranteed not to get confused.
We remove the insulation from each core, 1 centimeter for plug-in contacts.
Before connecting, you need to determine the phase wire; if there is already voltage on the wire, then this can be done using. After determining the phase, turn off the electricity supply to the wires. We check their absence with a voltage indicator and only after that we get to work.
In our case, the circuit is new and we choose the phase at our discretion - the white core. We connect it to contact "L".
This type switches is the easiest and safest to connect. The stripped wire is simply inserted into the contact hole and fixed there independently using a spring clamp.
Then another, from the second key, it will be yellow.
We check the quality of the wire fixation by pulling the wires back from the contacts.
If it is necessary to pull the wire out of the contact, special buttons are provided. They are located above each contact at the end of the mechanism.
The wires are connected and you can proceed to installing the mechanism in the socket box. But I want to warn you that there is one feature here that, unfortunately, when buying a switch, for some reason sellers do not inform you about it. Its installation will be carried out correctly only in plastic, since it, firstly, ideally fits the size of the mechanism and, secondly, has two possibilities for its installation. Standard, using spacer tabs and additional, using frame fixing screws. Old Soviet socket boxes were made mainly of metal, very rarely of plastic; they have a diagonal of 70 millimeters, since the old mechanisms were larger in size. When installing a new switch in an old socket box, reliable fixation cannot be achieved, since the spacer legs simply will not reach the edge of the socket box.
The spacer legs of this switch are located on its rear side on the left and right.
They are driven by screws located on the front of the mechanism.
We install the mechanism in the socket box. Since we are using a new socket box, its fixation will be carried out simply and in a fast way, using the mounting screws provided on it . For this installation optiontwo-gang switch equippedan iron frame, which is rigidly fixed to the mechanism of the device and in which four special holes are provided.
We align the mechanism horizontally, fix it with feints, and put on the frame and keys.
Connecting a two-button light switch with screw contacts
The switch that we use in our example does not have a connection diagram and contact designations, but you can still find out where which contact is. Let's figure out how the two-key switch works.
First, let's turn on the logic, two contacts at the bottom, supposedly outgoing, and one at the top, probably for connecting the supply phase. Let's check our guesses and try to discern the contact group visually. Look carefully at the contact; as a rule, the group of movable contacts there is open and you can see a long plate, which in turn is connected to a common supply phase contact. This is clearly the contact we need, both keys are in the off position, the circuit on them is open.
Now the keys are turned on, the circuit is closed, the phase, if present, would be directed along the outgoing wires.
Now let's disable one key.
So, we have identified the phase contact and at the same time seen the principle of operation of the moving contacts of a two-key switch.
There are double switches in which the contacts are hidden by the housing, in this case it will help.
Let's go through the contacts. This type of switch has three screw contacts to which wires and two spacer screws are connected; they set the spacer legs in motion.
The upper contact is intended for connecting the supply phase.
The two lower ones are outgoing.
Two spacer screws are located on the left and right.
They move spacer tabs designed to fix the mechanism in the socket box (mounting cup).
We sorted out the contacts. Now, let's move on to the main topic of the article, the answer to the question of how to connect a double switch.
Connecting a double switch with screw contacts
Now we prepare the wires. We remove the insulation from the cores. The depth of the screw contact is 6-7 millimeters. And let’s move on to analyzing the main question of how to connect a double switch.
We connect the supply phase to the upper contact. Unscrew the contact screw. We insert the wire.
Make sure that the insulation does not get into the clamp and tighten the screw.
We connect the outgoing wires in the same way.
We check the reliability of fixing the wires in the contacts.
The connection is complete.
We install the mechanism in the socket box, put on the frame and keys.
We apply voltage, the two-key switch is ready for use. In this article we have discussed in detail how to connect a double switch.
You can find out how it is done on our website in the corresponding instructions.
The connection of other electrical wiring elements (sockets with and without a grounding contact, illuminated switches, chandeliers, lamps) is described in great detail.
Tools we used in our work:
Tool
- flat screwdriver
- crosshead screwdriver
- voltage indicator
How much we saved by connecting a two-key switch with our own hands:
- call an electrician - 200 rubles
- installation of a two-key switch - 150 rubles
- We chose the switch we like and that suits our design
RESULT: financial savings amounted to 350 rubles, and we also examined in detail the issue of how to connect a double light switch, and gained invaluable experience in installing it.
Thank you for your attention. I really hope this article was useful to you.
When performing work on the installation of 220V electrical lighting networks for domestic and industrial premises, there is often a need to control several lighting devices from one point. For these purposes, a switch with two keys is used. Devices of this design provide switching on and off of lighting devices with two or more lamps. Sometimes, the layout of the electrical wiring of the lighting network provides for the control of several groups of lamps or individual lamps on one lamp. A two-key one is also suitable for these purposes.
For proper operation of the double switch, it is necessary to connect it correctly. In this case, a certain sequence of actions should be followed to ensure personal safety and the safety of others. Recommendations for safe installation of two light bulbs are discussed below.
Preparatory work
Preparation for installation of electrical switching devices (in this case, switches) involves understanding their structure, purpose, design, operating principle and the availability of tools for their installation in domestic and industrial conditions.
The number of switched-on lighting devices is regulated by a switch that has an additional outgoing contact and a separate control button. It usually does not differ in size from single-key ones. This is done for the convenience of replacing them with each other. The main difference is their switching “stuffing”.
A device with two keys has a working part that includes three contacts. One of the contacts is incoming, and the other two are outgoing. Outgoing contacts have independent on/off control.
During installation, it is positioned so that the outgoing contacts are located at the top. This is due to generally accepted standards for the on/off position.
The phase wire coming from the junction box is connected to the terminal of the incoming contact. Phase wires of consumers are installed on the terminals of outgoing contacts: individual lamps of one lamp, individual lamps, separate groups of lamps.
The neutral wire (working zero) to consumers comes out of the distribution box and does not pass through the switch.
According to their design, two-key models are divided into models for installation directly on the wall (for open wiring), and models for indoor installation in the wall (for hidden wiring).
Connection diagram for a two-button switch for two light bulbs
For correct connection into the electrical network, you should understand the electrical diagram of its installation.
Modern electrical network provides for the presence of a grounding conductor in the supply networks of all electrical consumers. There is no such conductor in the electrical wiring networks of Soviet-era houses. And in many private buildings it is not always available, especially in lighting networks. This can be explained by the relatively low electrical power of household lighting fixtures.
Therefore, it would be objective to consider the connection diagram of a two-key switch for wiring without a grounding conductor.
This diagram shows an example of connecting two lamps of one lamp, or two independent lamps. In this case, the phase wire comes to the input terminal of the switch and, through independent outgoing contacts, is sent to consumers by two separate wires.
For greater clarity, a diagram of the connection of two independent groups of lamps, or lamps connected in series, is shown.
When using this scheme, the connection of the working part of the device does not change and is carried out similarly to the previous example.
What tools and materials will be needed to install a double switch?
To perform installation you will need the following tool. Considered for models of two standard versions.
switch for open wiring:
- Electric drill.
- A drill with a diameter of 6 mm (for wood) or a drill with a diameter of 6 mm (for a concrete or brick wall).
- A Phillips screwdriver for clamping the wire into the terminal contacts and securing the switch body.
- A screwdriver is an indicator for determining the presence of voltage in the network.
- Knife for stripping the insulating layer of the wire. (in the absence of a special tool for removing insulation from cable and wire products). A knife is also needed to prepare the input and output holes in the switch housing for wires (cables).
- Pliers for crimping flexible wires. If the wire is solid, pliers may not be needed. But you can also use crimp lugs that match the wire cross-section (for flexible wire).
- Dowel with plug 6x40 (standard size indicated, it may vary depending on local conditions).
- Marker or felt-tip pen for marking “phase/zero” on the wires (for safety reasons).
To ensure safety from damage electric shock, all tools must have insulated handles to ensure that the metal parts of the tool are insulated from the hands of the installer. A high-quality tool indicates the insulation class or the maximum voltage value in the network of which such a tool is allowed to work.
Switch for hidden wiring.
To install a switch in a network with hidden wiring, you will need the same set of tools as in the previous example, but with a significant addition. You will need a hammer drill with special equipment - a crown for drilling standard holes in concrete and brick walls. Since the working part is recessed into the wall, you cannot do without a hammer drill.
You will also need a special construction mixture to fix the plastic switch housing in the drilled hole. Suitable for this purpose building gypsum, plaster, etc.
Connection instructions
Let's look at the installation process using the example of a switch for hidden wiring. This process is preferable since the aesthetics home interior provides for hidden wiring.
1. Drill a hole in the wall using a hammer drill and a special crown.
2. Using a chisel or screwdriver, remove the destroyed wall elements.
3. Check that the hole matches the dimensions of the plastic switch housing.
4. Punching a groove for electrical wiring. (Down to the baseboard, as in this example, or to the junction box).
5.Cutting a template hole in the plastic switch housing for electrical wiring.
6. Wetting the prepared hole with water for better contact with a building mixture-fixer.
7. Application construction mixture into the hole and installing the housing.
8. Installation of the plastic case.
9. Removing excess mixture solution.
10. Leveling the surface of the solution.
11. Final position of the switch body after the solution has hardened.
12. The next stage is connecting the working part of the switch and installing it in the housing.
For safe operation, we turn off the voltage of the network into which we connect the device. We first determine the phase and neutral wires using a voltage indicator. We mark the wires so as not to get confused in the future.
After installation of the plastic housing is completed and the mixture has hardened, we insert the phase wire into the switch housing. We connect the phase wire to the terminal of the incoming contact of the device.
We connect two outgoing phase wires, respectively, to the outgoing terminals of the contacts. We get the following.
13. All that remains is to install the switch keys and it is ready for use.
Provided that the lamps are already connected, we apply voltage to the network and check the operation.
To make the connection process more clear, below is a video on this topic.
How to install and connect a two-key switch with your own hands: video
Possible errors and ways to solve them
When connecting the working part, you can confuse the phase and neutral wires; to avoid this, you need to mark them in a timely manner.
The position of the switch keys is set as follows as standard:
Installing switches is not a particularly labor-intensive, although multi-step process. If you follow the above recommendations and their consistency, problems should not arise. It is necessary to remember the main rule of electricians. Before starting work (installation, repair of electrical appliances and equipment), turn off the power supply and check that there is no voltage at the workplace. It is very important to take measures to prevent the voltage from being switched on in the mains by mistake. So that no one turns on circuit breaker, which you turned off before starting work by mistake, you should hang a poster on it “Do not turn it on, people are working!” or lock this machine in the box with a padlock (if there is one). Safety first!
There are a significant number of uses for double switches. They are used for chandeliers when control and adjustment of lighting brightness is required. They are also relevant for a separate bathroom. For lighting the entrance to private households. If there is no specific preparation, then the connection diagram for a two-key switch can cause some difficulties. But using the installation instructions and useful recommendations, even a beginner can handle such an installation.
A two-key device is an important component of any modern interior
Before we learn how to properly connect a two-key light switch, let's find out more information about its structure. The mechanism includes a plastic case, input and output type terminals, two keys, and some models also have a light indicator.
If you connect correctly, you can use the keys to supply electricity or stop it.
The design has some advantages:
- the ability to turn off and turn on entire groups of lamps;
- saving on cables, since you do not need to pull two wires, as for single devices;
- allows you to adjust the lighting with a large number of lamps in the chandelier;
- used for rooms with high humidity levels;
- It does not require special care;
- ease of installation.
Before studying the instructions on how to connect a chandelier to a two-key switch, you need to prepare all the necessary tools. These include a plastic mold, indicator and figured type screwdrivers, crimping tools, and a construction knife.
Related article:
A competent choice of electrical equipment guarantees safety, reliability and aesthetics of use. Let's take a look at the existing brands and models.
Preparing wires for proper installation
Pre-harvesting of cables depends on the type of connected equipment. Such mechanisms provide ready-made lines. To change components, you will need to disassemble the lamp base. The box design requires three cables. Their total length should not be more than 10 cm. The ends of the cables must be stripped of insulation and then connected to certain terminals. A phase is connected to the terminal marked L. The connection of other wires depends on which keys will be used.
Helpful information! If you have a modular mechanism, it is important to provide power to each component. In this case, you can use a jumper.
When choosing a connection diagram for a two-key switch, you need to take into account that the installation and fastening of the wires is carried out using screw-type clamps or self-clamping terminals. The first option involves laying bare wire between the plates. This method requires periodic tightening of the screw.
When connecting a two-key mechanism, you need to remember that the zero is connected directly, and the phase is interrupted when passing through the device.
The connection process is done like this.
| Image | Stages |
|---|---|
 | First, the power supply is turned off in the panel, and then the absence of voltage is checked using an indicator. |
 | A cup is installed in the socket, and wires from the wiring boxes are pulled through it. Exposing the cores by 10 mm is done using side cutters. |
 | The wire with the phase is connected to the terminal, and the remaining wires are connected to the terminals. Each element corresponds to a specific key. The phase wire is often white. |
 | If needed certain order switching on different lighting groups, then after checking, if necessary, the wires in the terminals are changed. |
 | We mount the switch body and secure it with screws. The location of the structure level is then checked. |
 | The frame and keys are made of plastic. |
Finally, a light source is connected and the correct operation of the switch is tested. A two-core wire is connected to the installation box.
Related article:
This article discusses the issues of choosing suitable products and installation work. After studying this information, you can independently implement the project at a reasonable cost.
Option for connecting a two-key switch for two light bulbs
A simple diagram for connecting a two-key switch for two light bulbs. It includes the following steps:
- de-energizing the premises;
- It is important to identify the outgoing wiring. There must be cables leading to neutral, ground and phase. To understand them better, you should look at the dashboard;
- installation of light sources and wiring to the switch are carried out;
- Switches are considered wall-mounted because they are mounted on walls. In this case, there must be a hole in the wall where the wires are led out. The connection is made using a soldering iron or twisting method.
After summing up all the parts, the switch is fixed to the wall surface. It is worth knowing about the different techniques for connecting wires in a junction box. Crimping is relevant for production premises. Special equipment is used for soldering. The simplest and most reliable methods include the use of self-clamping connections. It is also worth having an idea about the method of connecting a two-key switch for hidden wiring.
Features of the connection diagram for a two-key pass-through switch
A pass-through switch is often used. Similar devices are used for long corridors, large walk-through rooms and staircases. In spacious rooms it is often difficult to choose appropriate place to install the switch, so without pass-through device difficult to get by. The socket can be mounted anywhere, but adjustment must be accessible from any location. In this case you need to install additional elements at the beginning and end of the room.
Connecting the pass-through mechanism has some features. Three contacts are required for proper connection. The phase is connected to a separate contact, and the zero is connected to the lamp. The other two contacts are used to connect pass-through devices.
Connecting a transition or cross two-key switch is easier if you follow some recommendations:
- during installation, check individual cables;
- phase is one wire, it can be checked using an indicator screwdriver;
- Before mounting, it is important to check the functionality of the structure.
What problems might there be?
Malfunctions of the installed device occur for various reasons. For example, one of the keys may skip certain light group, or all lamps turn on simultaneously. This indicates that the distribution of lighting devices to the keys is not working. Also, the switch may not work at all. Similar problems occur when the wires are connected incorrectly or when they are connected in the wrong order.
Remember that when laying wires, color marking standards are often not followed, so do additional checking. Using the indicator, ring all the wires.
Simple tips will help you avoid many problems. Remember to turn off the power before starting any electrical work. Proceed according to the instructions and label the conductors correctly.
Connection diagram for a two-key switch for two light bulbs (video)
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Carrying out installation operations yourself helps save time and money. The relevant knowledge and skills will be useful during the repair and replacement of a failed device, during the modernization of the lighting system. This article discusses in detail the connection diagram of a two-key switch and the sequence of its installation.
Read in the article:
We start with simple projects: a diagram for connecting a single-key switch to a light bulb
Devices in this category are designed for a maximum voltage of 1000 V. As you can see, this is much more than the 220 V standard network. However, it is necessary to study the various modifications in more detail in order to eliminate errors during purchase and during installation operations.
A plastic frame with keys is attached to the metal frame. For reliable fixation, screws are tightened, which push the support “legs” apart. This installation option is used to create good aesthetic characteristics and increase the level of safety. The next advantage is good protection conductors and structures from unfavorable external influences.
The photo shows a special rubber seal (1). By designation (2) you can determine the protection class.
For your information! IN in this case IP 44 is indicated. This means that particles larger than one millimeter in size, as well as splashes from any direction, are not able to get inside. This device is suitable as a doorbell key. There is sufficient protection from raindrops here.
Using this diagram for connecting a light switch with one key, it is not difficult to understand the principle of operation. Pressing a key activates a mechanism that breaks/connects an electrical circuit. In the corresponding position, the connected light bulb goes out/on.
Important! The wires are connected in such a way that the phase is connected to the switch. This will prevent accidental electric shock.
In this modification, a light bulb with a resistor is installed parallel to the key. If the circuit is broken, the current will be sufficient for its operation. The powerful external light is used only as a conductor. The exceptions are those that are capable of operating at low intensity with low current.
In this embodiment, it is possible to provide lighting control from several places. Similar schemes are used when equipping large rooms, long corridors, flights of stairs.
For your information! It is important to know not only how to properly connect a light switch. Each circuit must be considered as a whole, from the power source to the final consumer. This will help you select all system components correctly.
How to connect a light switch with one key without errors: step-by-step instructions
Before starting work, turn off the power supply to the facility.
| Illustration | How to connect a single-key light switch: sequence right actions with comments |
|---|---|
 | In accordance with the plan and markings, a groove is created. A flat three-core VVG cable (2) is installed into this channel from the shield (1) to the distribution box (3). Conductor cross-section – 1.5 mm square. |
 | The cable length reserve in each connection node must be left sufficient for convenient performance of work operations (10-15 cm). In the shield, the cable cores are stripped, the core with insulation is connected gray to the machine. |
 | Insulated wire of blue color– to the zero bus (1), yellow-green – to the grounding bar (2). |
 | IN distribution box conductors are marked: gray – L; blue – N; yellow-green – PE. This is not a mandatory procedure, but it is in strict accordance with the standards technological process. When installing more complex circuits high-quality marking prevents errors. |
 | The switch is installed at a height convenient for the user (recommended value - from 0.9 to 1.5 m from the finishing level flooring). The door should not close it when open. |
 | From the box in the groove, a two-core flat cable VVG with a cross section of 1.5 mm square is laid down. The ends of the cable must have sufficient length. Remove the protective shell by 8-12 mm, install marking rings. The core with a gray sheath is clamped with an upper screw connection. Brown - bottom. |
 | From the distribution box a flat VVG cable leads a line to the lamp. The ends are stripped and the conductors are connected in accordance with the color (alphanumeric) markings. Yellow-green - to the metal body of the lamp. |
 | In the same way, taking into account the markings, connect the wires in the junction box. Instead of “twists”, it is more convenient to use special terminal clamps, which provide reliable, long-lasting contact. |
 | If grounding is not provided in switchboard, the lamp body is made of dielectric, then when installing a single-key switch, a two-core cable is used. In this case, use this configuration of connections in the distribution box. |
Expert opinion
ES, EM, EO design engineer (power supply, electrical equipment, interior lighting) ASP North-West LLC
Ask a specialist“We should not forget that the phase conductor must pass through the switch. It is connected to the central contact pad of the lamp socket. This increases safety by making it more difficult to accidentally touch a conductive element when replacing a lamp.”
Connection diagram for a two-key switch: preparation and implementation of plans
This two-button light switch wiring diagram shows an example with grounding. This option is used if the lamp body is made of conductive material.
Standard sizes electrical appliances make it easier to carry out installation work. However, manufacturers use different types frames, change the docking nodes of the keys. This should be taken into account when searching for suitable products.
Also pay attention to the following parameters:
- appearance;
- resistance of materials to external mechanical influences, ultraviolet radiation, fire resistance;
- level of protection according to IP standards;
- permissible load;
- operating temperature range.
Separately, you need to study the design features and manufacturer’s recommendations for installing the product. Sometimes keyboard mechanisms and decorative frames are offered separately. In this case, the possibilities for choosing optimal aesthetic characteristics expand.
Switches are installed in standard mounting boxes. To speed up work operations, manufacturers equip individual elements latches that provide secure fixation without screws or other additional fasteners. To preserve the functionality of such units, dismantling should be done very carefully.
Instead of “classic” screw ones, they are now often used spring clamps. Marks are made next to them on the body, which help to accurately determine the length of the protective shell to be removed. The conductor is inserted into such a node without the use of special tools or additional fasteners.
Features of connecting a two-button switch to two light bulbs
Two-wire wiring was installed in older houses, so this solution is not uncommon. In the above diagram for connecting a double switch for two light bulbs, color coding is indicated.
How to connect a chandelier to a double switch: diagrams with groups of light bulbs
Such a control device is often used in combination with. Electrical power is supplied to one or two groups of light sources as needed.
In this diagram for connecting a chandelier to a double switch, the following details are noted:
- The common phase wire (3) is connected to the circuit breaker (1) in the apartment panel.
- Through the distribution box (7) it is connected to a two-gang switch (4).
- From here, current flows through different phase wires (5, 6) to the corresponding groups of lamps.
- A certain position of the keys provides four operating modes: turning on 2, 3 or 5 light sources, turning off.
Difficulties arise when the wiring is hidden, access to the junction box is difficult, and there is no correct marking.
Next instructions will help you figure out how to connect a chandelier to a two-key switch in such cases:
- The first diagram shows a typical power line installation.
- There are three wires in the wiring box, which is designed for installing a two-gang switch. One of them, phase, is determined by an indicator screwdriver. The other two come out of a hole in the ceiling. Together, remove the neutral (3) conductor.
- Turn off the power. Connect one wire (1) to the phase wire by temporary twisting or touching (Scheme No. 2).
- Turn on the power - this will allow you to find the corresponding outlet on the ceiling using an indicator screwdriver.
- The second wire is determined in the same way. Apply appropriate markings to prevent future errors.
- Connect the chandelier and the neutral wire (3) according to diagram 3, 4. The fourth figure was created using standard electrical symbols.
How to connect a two-key switch with a socket
This combination of devices is often used when equipping a bathroom. This solution allows you to take it outside the premises high humidity. This will ensure compliance with safety regulations. It is recommended here, which is indicated in the following diagram for connecting a two-key switch and socket.
The process of connecting a two-button switch: detailed instructions with comments
For clarity, the algorithm is described using a prototype setup. The same actions are applied in real conditions, taking into account architectural features object, design of certain devices.
| Illustration | Connecting a 2-key switch with explanations from a specialist |
|---|---|
 | First you need to study the manufacturer's instructions, which describe the dismantling procedure. This will prevent breakdowns during work operations. remember, that this instruction is an example. Appropriate adjustments must be made based on information from the official supporting documentation. |
 | In this model, the keys can be removed without applying excessive force. Next, unscrew the screw (marked with an arrow) and remove the decorative frame attached to it. |
 | After dismantling plastic parts access to the inside of the two-key switch is freed. |
 | In accordance with the selected electrical circuit, a phase wire must be installed on the central upper contact. When the contacts are closed with the keys, the current will flow out through the lower terminals. They are connected to lamps. |
 | To install a double light switch, use a VVG cable with three conductive cores. Multi-colored shells make identification easy. For ease of work, the ends are cleaned in advance to a length of 10-12 mm. To connect to top clamp use white wire. Similarly, connect the blue and yellow-green conductors for the first and second bulbs, respectively. The screws are tightened with a slotted screwdriver of a suitable size. |
 | Next, install the two-key switch in the installation box. To extend the side fasteners, rotate the side screws. When installed inside building structures reliable fixation of the structure is ensured. Reinstall the decorative frames and keys. Check the functionality of the mechanisms. |
 | Connect the wires in the junction box. These operations can be conveniently performed using special terminal clamps. They provide reliable electrical and mechanical connection without special tools. Color-coded wires prevent mistakes. |
 | Sequentially check the current path through each circuit and the compliance of the connections electrical diagram. If the installation of the double switch is done correctly, connect the power, perform trial run. When you press a key, the corresponding light comes on. |
When connecting electrical devices, you must strictly follow safety regulations. It is necessary not only to turn off the power, but also to prevent accidental voltage supply. The above work operations will be easier to perform if you use high-quality components and tools. You should check the wiring if you plan to install equipment that consumes more electricity.
If you have any questions about the instructions, comments, or examples of your own work, use the comments to the article. Pay attention to related materials in other sections of our online magazine. There you can find many useful information, which will be useful in practice.
When selecting electrics for a new or updated interior online, you often come across a photo of a two-key switch. This device looks as neat as a single-key one, while performing two useful functions at once. With a greater functional load than the standard variety, this type of switch is not difficult to install.
Application
The use of such a control device, as a rule, follows two scenarios. In the first case, wires from two different devices are connected to one switch. More often, we're talking about about lamps providing lighting in adjacent rooms. However, anyone can be controlled electrical appliance, starting from kitchen hood and ending with heated floors.
The second option for using the switch allows you to provide different modes of operation of the device. For example, adjusting the level of lighting in a room.
When using lamps with several light sources, this type of switch controls the connection of a different number of lamps. Therefore, pressing one of the keys leads to the corresponding lighting of the light bulbs connected to it.
Disassembly
The process of connecting a two-key switch can be done with your own hands. There is no need for a serious highly specialized knowledge base here. The main thing: turn off the power supply during operation and follow the recommendations.
In order to begin manipulation, the mechanism will need to be disassembled. Outwardly, it looks like a complete structure, not intended for disassembly, but connection is impossible without removing unnecessary parts.
Using a thin flat-head screwdriver, pry the keys from the outer sides (or top) and carefully remove them from the grooves.
Then you can begin to detach the frame. This element is secured with clamps or screws. That is, using a screwdriver, it is enough to loosen or unscrew the fasteners. After the work done internal mechanism the switch can be easily removed.
Connection
Modern models of switches are focused on self-installation even for beginners. In addition to the instructions included in the package with all the components, the back of the mechanism is equipped with designations of all contacts, and in some cases, also a connection diagram.
There are a total of three contacts in such a device:
- input, for the phase supply wire;
- two outputs for controlling devices.
During operation, you will need to connect the input contact to the power wire (phase), and the two output contacts to the device control wires. In the case of a chandelier, these will be the wires that power the different light bulbs.
It is worth noting that the instructions for connecting a two-key type of switch vary somewhat depending on what type of contacts are used in the mechanism. There are two types of contact mounts on the electrical goods market:
- self-clamping
- screw.
To connect a two-key control device for an electrical appliance, a three-wire wire is used. When purchasing this cable, especially for a beginner, you should pay attention to the colors of the wire insulation. Multi-colored insulation will speed up and facilitate the installation process.
If we are talking about an existing network, the preliminary procedure in installing any switch is to determine which of the two wires connected to the mechanism is phase. The correct connection depends on this.
This check is carried out using a probe. If the assembled circuit is new, the phase wire is selected at the discretion of the installer.
After the phase is determined, it must be marked with a marker (preferably on the surface of the insulating layer). Then the premises network is de-energized and you can begin direct installation.
Installation of a switch with self-clamping contacts
Do-it-yourself installation of a double switch with self-clamping contacts is simple and safe. The advantage of this mechanism is the automatic process of fixing the core inserted into the socket.
In the case of self-clamping contacts, they are also called “plug-in”, the wires of the purchased cable will need to be stripped of insulation to 8-10 mm in length. Then, a conductor defined as a phase is connected to the input contact. It is usually located at the top of the ceramic base and is marked 1 or L. The stripped wire is simply inserted into the phase opening and secured using an internal spring mechanism. The two remaining stripped wires must be inserted into the output contact sockets. The procedure is similar to installing an input contact.
Before you begin mounting the switch on the wall, it is important to check the quality of the cable cores. To do this, you just need to pull each wire in turn. If the wire is not secured or is not secured securely, this may lead to damage during operation, which in turn will cause a breakdown or fire.
Therefore, if an unreliable fixation is detected, it is enough to press the button located above the corresponding contact and completely pull out the core. Then carefully repeat the installation procedure until the wire is properly secured.
When you are done with connecting the contacts, you can begin installation. The switch is installed in the socket box using special spacer tabs, usually located on the sides, which are moved to the required position by controlling the screws.
It is worth noting here that the new generation mechanisms have smaller dimensional characteristics than the old-style devices. For this reason, new switches will not work reliably in all old socket boxes due to size mismatches. It will be necessary to either replace the socket box with a new design, or reduce it mechanically. You might also consider “enlarging” the spacers by replacing them with longer strips of metal.
In the new type of socket boxes, the switch is fixed quickly, literally with a couple of turns of the screws. Then additional fastening is carried out using the built-in metal frame. It remains to align the position of the control mechanism in the wall according to the vertical and horizontal planes. After this, the working mechanism is covered with a plastic frame and keys.
Installation of a mechanism with screw contacts
The installation diagram of a two-key switch with screw fastening of contacts is not particularly different from a self-clamping device. The difficulty here is that such devices, as a rule, do not have contact markings, and therefore you need to search for the input one yourself.
At the same time, according to the logic of the location of the sockets on the back side of the switch, it can be assumed that a separate one in the upper part ceramic panel the input is the contact intended for the phase. To confirm your guess 100%, you need to use an indicator.
In this case, the insulation from the wires is removed by 0.7 cm. A phase wire is connected to the upper contact. The stripped part of the core is inserted into the clamp formed when the screw is unscrewed. Carefully, so that the insulation layer does not get there, the screw is fixed. The other two contacts are connected in the same way. The process of fixing it into the socket box and installing it into the wall is carried out in a standard way.
Now the question of how to properly connect a switch to two light bulbs will not be difficult even for a person who has little knowledge of electricity in Everyday life. The main thing is to follow safety precautions and once again consult with a specialist.
Photos of two-key switches
