A double pole pull cord switch is a type of light switch that is commonly found in bathrooms and other areas where moisture is likely to be present. These switches are designed to be safe and easy to use, and they can be wired in a variety of ways to suit different needs and applications. In this article, we will explore some of the basics of double pole pull cord switch wiring, including the different options that are available and how to create a wiring diagram for your specific needs.
What is a Double Pole Pull Cord Switch?
A double pole pull cord switch is a type of switch that is used to control the power supply to a light or other electrical device. It consists of a switch mechanism that is operated by pulling on a cord, which is usually attached to a ceiling-mounted fixture. When the cord is pulled, the switch is activated, and the power supply to the light is turned on or off as required.
Double pole pull cord switches are designed to be safe and easy to use, with a simple mechanism that can be operated by anyone. They are commonly used in bathrooms and other areas where moisture is likely to be present, and they are often installed in conjunction with other safety features such as ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and exhaust fans.
How to Wire a Double Pole Pull Cord Switch
Wiring a double pole pull cord switch can be a simple process, but it is important to follow the correct procedures to ensure that the switch works correctly and is safe to use. There are several different wiring options available for double pole pull cord switches, depending on the specific requirements of your application. Some of the most common options include:
| Wiring Option | Diagram |
|---|---|
| Standard two-wire wiring | |
| Three-way wiring with one switch | |
| Three-way wiring with two switches |
Standard Two-Wire Wiring
Standard two-wire wiring is the simplest and most common wiring option for double pole pull cord switches. In this configuration, the switch is connected to two wires: a hot wire and a neutral wire. When the switch is activated, the hot wire is connected to the load (e.g. the light), and power is supplied to the load.
To wire a double pole pull cord switch using standard two-wire wiring, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power supply to the circuit on which the switch will be installed.
- Remove the cover plate from the ceiling-mounted fixture.
- Identify the hot wire and the neutral wire in the cable that runs from the fixture to the switch box.
- Connect the hot wire to one of the switch terminals.
- Connect the neutral wire to the other switch terminal.
- Reinstall the cover plate and turn the power supply back on.
Three-Way Wiring with One Switch
Three-way wiring with one switch is a slightly more complex wiring option that allows a single double pole pull cord switch to control a light from two different locations. In this configuration, the switch is connected to two hot wires and a neutral wire, and it is used in conjunction with a standard three-way switch at the other location.
To wire a double pole pull cord switch using three-way wiring with one switch, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power supply to the circuit on which the switch will be installed.
- Remove the cover plate from the ceiling-mounted fixture.
- Install a three-way switch at the other location, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Identify the hot wires and the neutral wire in the cable that runs from the fixture to the switch box.
- Connect one of the hot wires to one of the switch terminals.
- Connect the other hot wire to the other switch terminal.
- Connect the neutral wire to the remaining terminal.
- Reinstall the cover plate and turn the power supply back on.
Three-Way Wiring with Two Switches
Three-way wiring with two switches is a more complex wiring option that allows a double pole pull cord switch to control a light from three different locations. In this configuration, two three-way switches are used, one at each of the other locations.
To wire a double pole pull cord switch using three-way wiring with two switches, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power supply to the circuit on which the switch will be installed.
- Remove the cover plate from the ceiling-mounted fixture.
- Install two three-way switches at the other locations, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Identify the hot wires and the neutral wire in the cable that runs from the fixture to the switch box.
- Connect one of the hot wires to one of the switch terminals.
- Connect the other hot wire to the other switch terminal.
- Connect the neutral wire to the remaining terminal.
- Reinstall the cover plate and turn the power supply back on.
FAQ
What is the difference between a single pole and a double pole switch?
A single pole switch is a simple on/off switch that is used to control the power supply to a single device or group of devices. It has two terminals, one for the hot wire and one for the load, and it can be wired in a variety of ways depending on the specific application.
A double pole switch, on the other hand, is a more complex switch that is used to control the power supply to two different devices or groups of devices. It has four terminals, two for the hot wires and two for the loads, and it can be wired in a variety of ways to suit different needs and applications.
What is the purpose of a pull cord switch?
A pull cord switch is used to control the power supply to a light or other electrical device in areas where it may not be practical or safe to use a regular switch. It is typically used in bathrooms and other areas where moisture is likely to be present, as it allows the user to turn the light on or off without coming into contact with the switch.
Can a double pole pull cord switch be used to control multiple lights?
Yes, a double pole pull cord switch can be used to control multiple lights or other electrical devices, as long as the total load does not exceed the maximum rating of the switch. In this case, the switch would need to be wired in such a way that the hot wires from each device are connected to separate switch terminals.
Do I need to hire an electrician to install a double pole pull cord switch?
While it is possible to install a double pole pull cord switch yourself, it is generally recommended that you hire a licensed electrician to do the job. This is because wiring and electrical work can be dangerous if not done correctly, and a licensed electrician will have the knowledge and experience to ensure that the switch is installed safely and according to code.
