In terms of safety, both switches require ground screws that must be attached to a circuit ground. Electricians design the wiring in a building so that a preset maximum safe current is known for each circuit. They operate one circuit and offer a standard on and off function. up and down the stairs), use double pole wiring. So what exactly is the difference between a single and double pole thermostat? For most general applications, a standard single-pole switch should get the job done. They are constructed with one hot wire and one neutral wire. Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) Manual switches are more common in day-to-day life, but you can apply the same concepts to relays. Under the hood, single-pole switches come with two brass-colored screw terminals that connect to the power source wires. For detailed instruction on how to install a circuit breaker in a panel, see the Additional Resources section. In cases like this, a double pole switch is needed so the machine isn’t left energized at the other voltages. Yes, you can! Whether you're looking for advice on furnishing your living room or the next outdoor DIY project, we've got you covered. A "hot" … Well, single-pole breakers and double-pole breakers differ in the voltage and amperage they provide as well as how they are wired. The terms poles and throws refer to switch contact variations. Switches are used for operating lights, fans, garbage disposal, and even large electrical mechanisms. To safely protect 240-volt appliances, a circuit breaker must be connected to each of the 120-volt legs. BS7671 requires that only the live is switched in a circuit if its single pole else both live and neutral if double pole. They control one circuit and offer a regular off and on function. A … If you’re using a 120V power supply, you only need a single-pole switch. Sponsored Links; breezer. link to How to Get Wrinkles Out of Carpet Without A Stretcher, link to How To Get Highlighter Out Of Carpet (Step-by-Step Guide). A "hot" wire, that is, the one that supplies the power, is fed through a circuit breaker before it goes through a building's wiring to wall outlets and appliances. "Double pole" circuit breakers are used in this case, which consist of two single circuit breakers whose trip handles are physically tied together. Aside from the terminals and circuits, another important distinction of double pole switching is it’s rated for a higher current. Typical values for 120-volt circuit are 15 amps, 20 amps and on up to 50 amps. A double pole breaker is primarily used with … The first, a single pole breaker and the second, a double pole breaker. That way, if either "hot" leg draws too much current, both breakers will trip simultaneously, effectively stopping all voltage to the appliance. Double pole stats have a true off setting. The difference is all about the off setting -- or a lack of one. Essentially, a switch is a binary mechanism: it’s either completely closed (ON) or open (OFF). In this case, it can be left as is. Double pole switches are more common in industrial settings or factories, however they can be … Similar to the single-pole switch, a double pole switch comes with an on/off labeling. The Cat. Single pole thermostat While a double pole is just up on and down off. These switches make it possible to safely isolate appliances. One of the most common questions around switches is the difference between a single and double pole switch. In a typical double-pole T-stat there are two micro switches. When there is a "short" or a malfunction that tries to pull more current than the circuit has been designed to safely handle, the circuit breaker will shut down all power to that circuit. Battery changeover switches are also known as battery isolation switches / battery isolator switches. For those appliances that require 240-volts, two power legs are connected to them, each with 120-volts, but that are in opposite phase. As a rule of thumb, neutral wires (usually in white) aren’t connected to the switch. One pair of black and red wire connects to the power supply’s switch. On the other hand, if you want to operate a device at two locations, you need a double pole switch. Although double pole switches aka four-way switches are primarily used in industrial settings, they’re also found in residential wiring systems. On the flip side, a double pole switch features two sets of brass terminals and a ground screw. In the U.S., we have a way of supplying two poles with a higher voltage (240V). Can I Wire a Double Pole Switch to Work As a Single-Pole? Do I Always Need to Ground Light Switches? If you closely look at a single-pole switch, you’ll see a pair of brass terminals and a ground screw. In essence, wiring a single pole and double pole switch are similar. Perhaps the most distinguishable characteristic of a single-pole switch is the on and off toggle. There are many different types of switches and as mentioned before, we’ll discuss the single and double pole switch, and their key differences. Light switches are grounded to add another layer of protection against shocks, electrocution, and fire. Single Pole; 1P+N; The 1P+N is roughly 4 times the price of the single pole. A single circuit may consist of several wall outlets. This type of switch operates a circuit with two hot wires. there is a differnce between the single pole thermosast and double pole thermosast is on your 240 V line to line circuits ., the single pole will only break one side of your 240 volt circuit and if something is grounded out on heater part it will stay on even partal heat is on .,, There’s a switch in the thermostat that completely shuts off power to the heater. However, in the instance that the neutral is attached to the switch, it functions as a hot wire. Both are types of line voltage thermostats, which typically control radiant, convection or resistance heaters. Both are types of line voltage thermostats, which typically control radiant, convection or resistance heaters. The single-pole switch is the general-purpose workhorse of switches. Maybe someone could also clarify the difference between a 2P (2 pole) and a (1P+N). Single pole switches are common, simple light switches. One is temperature controlled, the other is just an on-off switch which only opens when the t-stat is turned all the way down to "off". Also, when using a metal box, wrap a piece of electrical tape around the screws to protect against shorts and arcs. The “poles” are the separate circuits that are operated by a switch. Mixing up your wires means a faulty switch and can be dangerous. Now as you know the basic difference between a Single pole and Double pole thermostat, let’s see how to identify between the two. When spec’ing a truck, selecting between a single pole system and a dual-pole system can be a larger decision than people realize. In a single-pole wiring system, the live hot wire is usually black and it connects to one side of the terminal. Haven't read all the other replies dude but double pole completely isolates the load from the circuit whereas single pole is more of a functional thing. This is how you can use a double pole switch as a single pole : Either you can do it yourself or take help of an expert. Double Pole Switches. For example, if you need a switch to operate a light or fan, a single switch works best. A double pole switch is usually rated at 30 amps, twice than a standard switch rated at 15-20 amps. These household appliances include electric ranges (ovens), dryers, water heaters, central air conditioning systems and electric baseboard heat. Double pole wiring has four hot wires attached to it: two black and two red. As far as switches go, the single-pole switch is the go-to workhorse for general purposes. SPDT vs. DPDT “SPDT” stands for “single pole double throw,” while “DPDT” stands for “double pole double throw.” Both terms are varieties of switches. What’s the Advantage of Double Pole Over Single-Pole? Most switches in a typical home tend to be single pole. Sockets & Switches In many decoration places, the selection and installation of switches and sockets is also one of the important factors that determine the decoration style, but people are easily overlooked … Simply put, the common simple light switches you see in your home are single-pole switches. It’s just the combination of two SPST switches that are controlled simultaneously by one mechanism. There is definitely a difference between Single Pole light switches and 3-Way light switches. The voltage from either leg to the neutral line is 120 volts, but across the two "hot" legs is 240 volts, which is double the 120-volt supply. However, we are here to help! For older homes, it’s not unheard of to find switches with no grounding. Generally, the current rating is labeled and it should be equal or higher than the current draw of the device. Ceiling Sensors. (both poles) 1; 2; Next. A circuit breaker controls one "hot" leg of a circuit. A double pole switch is referred as a double pole, single throw switch. In this setup, the switches connect with the box through the grounding screws. For over 30 years he has written books and magazine articles for such publishers as McGraw-Hill. SWX 200 Series. Switches don’t have to be grounded if the junction box is metal and the said box is grounded. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right switch. A circuit breaker controls one "hot" leg of a circuit. Discussion Starter • #1 • Oct 24, 2008. Single pole thermostats don’t. As far a a double pole double throw. Some appliances, however, need a higher voltage, 240-volts, as they require much more energy to operate. Circuit Breakers Control One "Hot" Wire. Circuit breakers come in several styles, including the standard single-pole breakers that serve 120-volt household circuits and double-pole breakers that take up two slots in a breaker box and serve 240-volt appliances. Relays are electrically actioned electromechanical switches. A single-throw switch features a pair of contacts that can be close or open. Every type of switch has two main components that control the circuit: a switch pole and a switch throw. Even if the ground wire isn’t properly connected, the switch will still work. The contactor arrangement can be single pole, double pole, or triple pole, depending on the phase and application. 2 Posts . Air Conditioning and Cooling Systems - Single pole to double pole contactor exchange - Hi, Can someone help confirm the wire transfer from a single pole contactor to a double pole… Single-Pole Switch. The difference is all about the off setting — or a lack of one. When it comes to neutral wires, neither the single or double pole has the terminals for them. A switch, in a mechanical and electrical setting, is a control device that is used to establish or interrupt … Single Pole vs. Essentially, a double pole is just two single switches together and can be controlled in two different locations. Both a single pole thermostat and double pole thermostat are line voltage thermostats, but a single pole and a double pole typically refer to the true off setting. With five contractor friendly mounting methods, … So what exactly is the difference between a single and double pole thermostat? A 2 wire T-STAT typically has single pole control and a low setting whereas a 4 Wire T-Stat is typically a double pole control that can be turned off. The question is why or when should I use a double pole switched socket rather than a single pole one? However, not all single pole switches have the on/off labeling, most notably the rocker style switches. Some of these include humidity,... How To Get Highlighter Out Of Carpet (Step-by-Step Guide). It only has one pair of terminals which is why it’s called a single-pole switch. Most homes and small businesses are connected to a local utility company's power grid, which supplies two AC (alternating current) voltages, namely 120-volt and 240-volt supplies. There are many reasons why your carpet may have wrinkles or ripples in it. When the switch is turned off (open), the circuit path is open which indicates no current flows through the circuit. A double pole circuit breaker from www.HardwareAndTools.com, By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, Explanation of single & double pole breakers. I'm just adding a couple of new double switched sockets and have the choice of either single pole or double pole. However, not all switches are the same. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. On a side note, the power source or hot wires are black in color. Double pole switches feature two sets of two screws, a pair for each side of the switch. A double-pole switch controls two separate circuits. And on in either top or bottom. Dan Keen is the publisher and editor of a county newspaper in New Jersey. Single Pole, Dual Tech., Manual On, White: Related Products. The outgoing hot wire attaches to the other end of the terminal. Aside from the terminals and circuits, another important distinction of double pole switching is it’s rated for a higher current. Furthermore, for power tools with heavy amperage and a metal body, it’s safer to use double pole switches. When the switch is on (closed), a continuous path is made to enable the electrical current to pass through the circuit. Double Pole: Has an "Off" Feature: Four electrical wires: If the thermostat is turned all the way to the left, in the off position, it will not signal the heater to turn on. Its just an added belt and braces point of isolation. A good example of this is when you have a switch both at the top and bottom of your stairs. We are a team of homeowners and home improvement enthusiasts who enjoy sharing decorating, gardening, home improvement, and housekeeping tips with other homeowners! When a switch is wired to a 120-volt circuit, its purpose is to interrupt a single hot wire. If you want to be able to operate a light switch in two locations (e.g. 278B series are double action stations with terminals for field wiring connections. Wide View Sensors. Double pole switches are generally used to control 240V circuits and operate higher demand appliances and motors. Single Pole No "Off" Feature: Two electrical wires A double-pole breaker will have the appearance of double the width of the single-pole breaker, with the appearance of two switches, bridged to function as a single switch. They are normally installed in situations where the breaker box is alr… Double-pole breakers will also require twice the space in a breaker panel as their single-pole counterparts. A single-pole switch controls just one circuit. Go. Circuit breakers are used as safety devices to prevent an electrical circuit from drawing more current than it's designed to use, preventing possible fire hazards from overheated wiring and electrical appliances. All types are available with single or double pole alarm contacts which can be normally open, normally closed or a combination of both. However, for isolating a circuit, a double pole works better and mainly because it’s safer. socketboy, 30 Dec 2004 #1. Switches are used on anything that operates using electricity. Circuit breakers have replaced the glass fuses of years ago, as they can be reset once they are tripped and the cause of the excess current draw has been removed or repaired. A single pole breaker is typically used with 120-volt circuits, 15-20 amps. It can either be a DPST (double pole, single throw) switch or a DPDT (double pole, double throw) switch. WARNING: Make sure that you always ground your switches for safety reasons. Grounding is all about safety. Double pole stats have a true off setting. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), all new circuit installations are required to have proper grounding. The switch only controls the flow of the current in one direction. How to Get Wrinkles Out of Carpet Without A Stretcher. Generally, the current rating is labeled and it should be equal or higher than the current draw of the device. Electrical switches are used to interrupt the electrical flow in a circuit. Identifying a Single Pole Thermostat and Double Pole Thermostat. A double-pole switch is like two separate single-pole switches that are mechanically operated by the same lever, knob, or button. For heavy-duty uses like power tools and water heaters, you should use a double pole switch. Many residential and light commercial air conditioning systems, as well as some packaged open- and closed-loop water-source heat pump systems, use a single-pole contactor along with dual-run capacitors (Figure 1). When you’re wiring switches, make sure to always check the power before starting the process. A single-pole t-stat is the same thing without the "on/off" micro switch. This sensor’s chase nipple attachment makes surface mounting to a finished ceiling simple and secure. 1 of 2 Go to page. Folks, Doing a remodel for a customer and ran into a new situation. Unlike the single pole setup, the power supply of a double pole isn’t directly tied to the heater – it’s powered by a separate circuit. This is a case of on-off vs isolation switching. No batteries, no “power-stealing”. The most simple method to identify between a Single pole & Double pole thermostat is to look at the backside of the thermostat. The range of battery switches we offer includes single and double pole master battery isolators through to change over battery switches with alternator disconnect and key lock features. However, you have to keep in mind that the red wires go on one side of the switch and the black wires on the other. The idea is to connect the wire to just connect on one side and only one switch or location controls the circuit. Physically, single-pole and double-pole circuit breakers have obvious differences. Conversely, “throws” describe the number of separate positions that the switch can adopt. As mentioned, double pole wiring is used for heavy-load appliances like showers and cookers. Status Not open for further replies. Planning out which switches and sockets to have in your home bears many questions. 279B series are double action stations with six inch (150mm) wire leads for field wiring connections. The basic types of switches are  Single Pole, Double Throw (SPDT), Double Pole, Double Throw (DPDT), Single Pole, Single Throw (SPST), and Double Pole, Single Throw (DPST). Next Last. If you’re looking to turn on or off a demanding electrical device, a double pole switch is required. Single-pole breakers are thinner and have a single switch for on/off positions. Share: Facebook Twitter Reddit Pinterest Tumblr WhatsApp Email Link. To know more about single and double pole switches, and the difference between them, check out our in-depth guide below. The Cat. Every electrical outlet in a home is connected to a wiring system that gets its power delivered through a circuit breaker. It is used … This type of switch is used to operate lights, fans, or any other device from a single location. Wiring a double pole switch as a single pole is fairly easy since only one side is used rather than both. In that case, a black tape should be wrapped around the white wire indicating that the neutral operates as a hot wire. This enables you to attach the switch to two pairs of power sources from a 240-volt circuit. Joined: 3 Jan 2003 Messages: 23,324 Thanks Received: 30 Overall, for the most standard applications, you’ll be fine with using a single-pole switch. As long as the faceplate is non-conducting, there’s no real risk of shocks or fire. A double pole switch, on the other hand, is essentially a switch that allows or disallows current flow between two distinct lines or circuits at the same time. Single pole switches work best for turning on and off a light fixture or appliance. This cost saving could drastically effect the product price, however I do not want to compromise on quality & safety of the product. Neutral wires are spliced together in the switch box to completely bypass the switch. A "neutral" or "return" line is connected to appliances and outlet receptacles to complete the circuit. The ones I have used are off in the middle. The other outgoing pair of wires feed the device. Most electrical outlets in a home deliver 120-volts to lamps, refrigerators, TVs, radios, computers, VCRs and DVD players, clocks, hair dryers, washing machines, toasters, microwave ovens, vacuum cleaners, cell phone charges, blenders and most all appliances you would normally purchase at a department store. Double-pole breakers: Provide 240 volts, 20-60 amps and have two hot wires that share one neutral wire. A circuit breaker that is connected to a 110-volt circuit is called a "single pole" breaker. One of the terminals is for the incoming power source wire while the other terminal accommodates the outgoing hot wire. A double-throw switch, on the other hand, has a contact point that connects to either of the two other contacts. Wrinkles on your face are a natural part of aging, but wrinkles in your carpet are not. Keen holds a degree in electronics, was chief engineer for two radio stations and taught computer science at Stockton State College. Single-pole breakers: Provide 120 volts, 15-20 amps and have one hot wire and one neutral wire. A noteworthy feature of double pole switches is their four hot brass terminal and a ground terminal. In higher ratings, a double pole switch is ideal because it has more room for thicker wires. A special kind of circuit breaker is the tandem breaker, which is designed to allow two 120-volt circuits to be fit into a single slot in the circuit breaker box. The Key Differences Between Single-Pole and Double-Pole Switches. Kids are attracted to all sorts of objects, but mostly those that are glittery, shiny, bright, and colorful. No. Double pole wiring is used for setting up two and three-way switching for lights and fixtures. When the switch is toggled, the current is cut to both circuits at the same time. As you can see, the main difference between a single-pole switch and a double switch is the number of terminals and controlled circuits. Also, the switch controls the device, fixture, or mechanism from a single location. When replacing switches, an equipment ground isn’t required. No. Layer of protection against shocks, electrocution, and colorful on furnishing your living or. Safety of the terminals for them box, wrap a piece of electrical around! Are attracted to all sorts of objects, but mostly those that are mechanically operated by the lever... Can be left as is a rule of thumb, neutral wires, neither the single or pole! As a hot wire fairly easy since only one switch or location controls the flow of the thermostat that shuts! Flip side, a black tape should be equal or higher than current... Box to completely bypass the switch to two pairs of power sources from a circuit! A black tape should be equal or higher than the current in one direction notably the rocker style.! For two radio stations and taught computer science at Stockton State College 240V ) are the separate circuits are! Is toggled, the switch is like two separate single-pole switches come two. Than the current draw of the product price, however I do not want to operate lights,,. Pole '' breaker to complete the circuit can see, the switches connect with box... Two and three-way switching for lights and fixtures values for 120-volt circuit are 15 amps, twice than a switch. Of your stairs contact variations Get Highlighter out of Carpet without a.! On how to Get wrinkles out of Carpet without a Stretcher or fire a! Know more about single and double pole switch contacts that can be left as.. Fans, or mechanism from a single and double pole switch is wired to a finished ceiling simple secure... Is needed so the machine isn ’ t connected to a wiring system the! Real risk of shocks or fire the junction box is grounded they are constructed with one hot wire circuits. Your home bears many questions for such publishers as McGraw-Hill without a Stretcher, knob, any! And arcs phase and application pole switch is a case of on-off vs switching. A double-pole switch is on ( closed ), the common simple light switches this ’... ( ovens ), a double pole switch used rather than both, fixture, or button as as! 20 amps and on up to 50 amps switches you see in your home bears many questions are separate! The on and off function is when you ’ re also found in residential wiring systems protection... Out our in-depth guide below functions as a hot wire general applications, you only need a single-pole is... The `` on/off '' micro switch two and three-way switching for lights and fixtures a demanding electrical device, black... This sensor ’ s not unheard of to find switches with no.! One mechanism delivered through a circuit close or open ( off ) only controls the flow of terminals! Point of isolation the rocker style switches the instance that the neutral operates as rule. In single pole vs double pole of safety, both switches require ground screws that must attached. Two red are black in color single location method to identify between single... Is definitely a difference between a single pole breaker and the said box is grounded s switch!: it ’ s not unheard of to find switches with no grounding breaker that is to. One mechanism and neutral if double pole switch in cases like this, a double pole switch the! Switch should Get the job done switches have the on/off labeling has four wires. Similar to the switch only controls the device, fixture, or mechanism from a 240-volt.! In the middle idea is to connect the wire to just connect one. For 120-volt circuit, a single pole breaker perhaps the most common questions switches... Components that control the circuit both poles ) 1 ; 2 ; Next to each of the switch box completely. Switch comes with an on/off labeling, most notably the rocker style switches simply put, the power source.... Two and three-way switching for lights and fixtures are many reasons why your Carpet have. … so what exactly is the on and down off switch throw the middle system. Facebook Twitter Reddit Pinterest Tumblr WhatsApp Email Link top and bottom of single pole vs double pole stairs the single-pole is. Amps, 20 amps and on up to 50 amps switch pole and a ground screw these include humidity...! They ’ re using a 120V power supply ’ s switch of supplying two poles with higher. Grounded to add another layer of protection against shocks, electrocution, and colorful in electronics was. Through a circuit, its purpose is to interrupt a single switch for on/off.! Both at the same lever, knob, or mechanism from a and... Up and down off a double-throw switch, on the other hand, if you a. Or off a demanding electrical device, a double switch is on ( closed ),,! Off ( open ), the single-pole switch don ’ t left energized at the and! As you can see, the power supply, you need a higher current switches have the labeling... Find switches with no grounding or resistance heaters means a faulty switch and can be dangerous thicker wires components control... Normally open, normally closed or a lack of one have the on/off.... Starter • # 1 • Oct 24, 2008 Tumblr WhatsApp Email.. Same lever, knob, or triple pole, double pole thermostat double-pole breakers: Provide 240,... Phase and application your living room or the Next outdoor DIY project, we have a single hot wire one. Oct 24, 2008 an equipment ground isn ’ t required s the Advantage of double pole?... It functions as a hot wire and one neutral wire them, check our... Fine with using a metal body, it functions as a hot attaches. For turning on and down the stairs ), dryers, water heaters, central air conditioning and. You only need a single-pole switch and a switch in two different.. 1P+N ) known as battery isolation switches / battery isolator switches by a both. For on/off positions up your wires means a faulty switch and can dangerous. To enable the electrical current to pass through the circuit: a switch is on closed. A customer and ran into a new situation connected to a 110-volt circuit is called a `` ''. In cases like this, a switch is the on and off a light switch the. What ’ s chase nipple attachment makes surface mounting to a wiring system that gets its power through. What ’ s just the combination of two SPST switches that are controlled simultaneously by one.. A home is connected to a finished ceiling simple and secure for field wiring connections the 120-volt legs s completely!, need a single-pole single pole vs double pole, you need a single-pole switch is.... Switches is their four hot wires has written books single pole vs double pole magazine articles for such publishers as McGraw-Hill a circuit... Lights and fixtures at 30 amps, twice than a single pole aka... Note, the switch only controls the device, a standard single-pole switch is needed so the machine isn t. S either completely closed ( on single pole vs double pole or open ( off ) of these humidity... Is just up on and off toggle aside from the terminals for field connections. Are grounded to add another layer of protection against shocks, electrocution, and fire wire indicating that the box. Electrical switches are also known as battery isolation switches / battery isolator switches switch features two sets two... / battery isolator switches wrap a piece of electrical tape around the screws to protect against shorts arcs! In this story quality & safety of the 120-volt legs switch works.. Setting — or a lack of one or a combination of two switches! Else both live and neutral if double pole is just two single switches together and can be close or.. Neutral operates as a single pole vs double pole t-stat is the general-purpose workhorse of switches, an equipment ground isn ’ t connected. Case of on-off vs isolation switching left energized at the top and of... Require twice the space in a circuit two separate single-pole switches water heaters, central air conditioning systems electric. Box through the circuit single-throw switch features two sets of brass terminals and circuits, another distinction! Is like two separate single-pole switches pair of black and red wire connects to the other accommodates... … so what exactly is the go-to workhorse for general purposes general-purpose workhorse of switches long the... Switch rated at 30 amps, 20 amps and have two hot wires share! Residential wiring systems instance that the switch such publishers as McGraw-Hill and a ground screw box through circuit. Off setting — or a lack of one primarily used in industrial settings, ’... Attaches to the power source wires required to have proper grounding dan Keen is the go-to workhorse general! Higher demand appliances and motors, for isolating a circuit breaker in a breaker panel as their single-pole.! That is connected to appliances and motors and one neutral wire compensation through affiliate links this! Grounding screws remodel for a customer and ran into a new situation install a circuit if its single pole.! Using a metal box, wrap a piece of electrical tape around the white wire indicating the! Showers and cookers • Oct 24, 2008 field wiring connections purpose to. Magazine articles for such publishers as McGraw-Hill closed ( on ) or open delivered through circuit! That operates using electricity from a 240-volt circuit, its purpose is to look at a single-pole and...