Different Lamp Switches
Stepping on a cord switch, turning a socket switch or pushing a base switch all result in the illumination of light bulbs in lamps. The type of switch you choose for your lamp depends upon how you want the light bulb to function and on the location of the lamp in your room. Light switches must also be compatible with the lamp's socket type. Does this Spark an idea?
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Facts
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A lamp switch is located on the socket, base or cord of a lamp. Lamp switches can turn light bulbs on and off, and some can control the amount of light emitting from the bulb. Switches are made of metal or plastic and are available at hardware and home improvement stores. Different light bulbs are required for different types of lamp switches and sockets.
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Sockets
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Selecting a lamp switch depends on the type of socket installed on your lamp. Types of lamp sockets include one-way and three-way. A one-way socket turns the light bulb on and off. A three-way socket illuminates the light bulb with three different wattages, in addition to turning it on and off. Light switches can also be located on sockets. This type of switch consists of a dial or rod affixed to the socket of the lamp. When turned, it illuminates the light bulb. Socket switches are best for lamps that are easy to reach, such as table lamps that sit within arm's reach of a sofa or chair.
Cord and Base
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Switches to turn lamps on and off can also be affixed to the lamp cords. Bedside lamps often have cord switches so you can turn the lamp on and off while lying in bed. These switches can be in the form of a dial or a button. The light bulb turning on and off, as well as dimming and three-way action, are controlled by pressing the button. Some types of cord switches can be operated by foot. A base switch is located on the body of a lamp and can be a button, rod or dial. Desk lamps are often designed with this type of switch, as it is easy to reach when sitting down.
Dimmer
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A dimmer switch will allow you the most control of the light emitting from the bulb. This type of switch turns on the light bulb and lets you control the level of light. It will click once and then smoothly rotate and increase the amount of light from the light bulb until it reaches its maximum brightness. This type of switch is very useful when you want to create low, ambient light in a room.
Misconceptions
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Just because your lamp comes with one type of switch doesn't mean you are stuck with it. Changing the location and type of lamp switch on a lamp is a simple task for an electrician or individual trained in wiring electrical devices. If you want to go from a one-way switch to a three-way switch, you can also change out your lamp's socket. It is best to purchase a lamp based on its aesthetics, as you can always alter the way it is turned on by changing to a different lamp switch.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit "If I Had Something to Say" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: re_birf under the Creative Commons Attribution license.
