Has seen that my 20, 30 amp hot water switches are 2 pole unlike the lamp switches that are only 1 pole (hot wire). Who can tell me the requirements that require a 2 pole switch? What are the benefits or safety features of the 2 pole switch? thnx. And please don't worry anyone-i would not touch one with a ten foot rubber screwdriver as i am not 'vocationally trained and certified competent'.
Merit/demerit of 2 pole switch
- Thread starter jobin
- Start date
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The "lighting" switch only disconnects the phase conductor.
In electrical terms, both phase and neutral are considered live terminals and many items (eg water heaters, central heating, cookers, etc) mandate complete isolation with both phase and neutral being disconnected.
So a double pole switch is required for those situations.
PS Dear UK pedant. Please don't pick at my use of "phase". The OP is not from round here and I di not want to mix up the terms line and live in my explaination.
In electrical terms, both phase and neutral are considered live terminals and many items (eg water heaters, central heating, cookers, etc) mandate complete isolation with both phase and neutral being disconnected.
So a double pole switch is required for those situations.
PS Dear UK pedant. Please don't pick at my use of "phase". The OP is not from round here and I di not want to mix up the terms line and live in my explaination.
Thanks for those thoughts but am left unsatisfied. Who, exactly, 'mandates' and why for the high amp items? Really am interested in the why the high amp switch is treated differently than the simple low amp switch. Any news on that Q? Thanks again.
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Usually manufacturer's instructions will mandate that, or it could be a regulation.
In the UK we have a British Standard (7671) called Wiring Regulations where double pole may also be required in certain situations or supply types.
This may not apply to where you are located.
In the UK we have a British Standard (7671) called Wiring Regulations where double pole may also be required in certain situations or supply types.
This may not apply to where you are located.
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