Buyer information, not installation instructions. Requirements depend on the adopted local code and exact product. Electrical work and site diagnosis should be performed by qualified professionals.
A combination light switch puts separate controls into one device position. A double rocker can give two loads their own on/off control; a triple rocker can give three. This can be useful when a room needs several lighting groups but the design calls for a single device position on the wall.
The names can be confusing on an order. “Three switches” may mean three separate devices, three rockers in one device or a 3-way control requirement. ENERLITES, for example, lists dual single-pole, dual 3-way and triple-rocker configurations separately. FAHINT buyers need the same distinction in their specification. [Source]
Count the loads and the control locations separately
Suppose a room has one ceiling-light group and one wall-light group, both controlled at the entrance. The purchasing brief needs two separate on/off controls at that location. If the ceiling lights must also be controlled from another doorway, that adds a different requirement. The installer needs to specify the appropriate multi-location arrangement.
A 3-way switch is used in a suitable circuit to control a load from two locations. Three rockers on the front do not create that function. DS1503 has three single-pole rockers, while DS15.3 is FAHINT’s 3-way paddle-switch model. [Source]
| Model | Controls on the device | Published function |
|---|---|---|
| DS1502 | Two rockers | Two single-pole controls |
| DS1503 | Three rockers | Three single-pole controls |
| DS15.3 | One paddle | 3-way switching |
Several rockers still fit one device opening
DS1502 and DS1503 are single-gang combination devices. Do not order a two-gang wallplate for DS1502 merely because it has two buttons. The gang count describes the physical device arrangement; the rocker count describes the controls within that device.
Review the complete switch and wallplate sample. The plate opening must suit the device face, and the installer must confirm the box, conductors and mounting space. A compact front does not establish that an existing box has room for the proposed installation.
Check the load type behind each rocker
Both DS1502 and DS1503 carry a published device rating of 15A, 120/277V AC. Treat that as the starting specification, then ask for the permitted load types and the limits that apply to the complete device. Do not multiply the 15A figure by the number of rockers to advertise a combined capacity. [Source]
If one control is intended for a fan, heater or another non-lighting load, name that equipment in the request. The equipment rating and the switch’s applicable load approval need to be reviewed together. These rocker switches provide on/off operation; they do not add dimming or fan-speed control.
Make the control schedule readable
Label the intended function of each rocker in the sample brief, such as ceiling lights and wall lights. Have the project team confirm the wiring arrangement using the exact instructions. For a repeated room design, keep the same control order on the approved sample and the room schedule.
When asking for DS1502 or DS1503, include the load schedule and matching plate, not just the phrase “double switch” or “triple switch.” For a single paddle or toggle, the lighting-switch guide compares the other FAHINT options.Lighting switch buying guideView combination switch models
Sources & further reading
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