All of the light switches available to buy from Candy Queen Designs are available in the following styles :
1 Way (1 Gang) 400 Watt Rotary Dimmer Switch - Rotary ´Click´ On/Off
2 Way (1 Gang) 400 Watt Push On/Off Dimmer Switch - Push On/Off
Standard Push On/Off Light Switches
(Low Voltage Dimmer Switch - Pirce On Request)
(1000 Watt Dimmer Switches – Price On Request)
All of the above light switches are recommended for mains voltage lighting only.
It is not necessary to have a dimmer switch in the room already to fit a Candy Queen dimmer switch. You can have either a flick switch or an existing dimmer switch, either are very simple to replace. It is only the light switch which needs to be replaced, not the wires in the wall or the light fittings.
Depending on the style of light switch you choose, the lights will be turned on and off by either a rotary ‘Click’ On/Off action or a Push On/Off action. If you do not wish to have the lights dimmed, simply turn on completely for full brightness.
Full fitting instructions are supplied with each light switch. Fitting is a simple procedure and regular flick switches can easily be replaced with a dimmer switch. Dimmers make great ambient lighting. Simply turn down and relax.
There are three types of light switch to choose from, to make things easy to understand :
A One Way Dimmer Switch is for 1-way circuits. This means that one light switch controls the lights – this is common in most bedrooms, kitchens, lounges etc.
A Two Way Dimmer Switch is for 2-way circuits. This is where the same lights are controlled by two switches, (this is common on the stairs and some bedrooms) you must choose a Push-On/Push-Off 2 way dimmer switch to replace one of your switches and/or a standard On/Off switch to replace the other if you´d like to have two funky switches, (although it is not necessary to replace both switches).
Our Standard On/Off Light Switches Push On and Off. They still have a rotating action but DO NOT dim the lights, they are simple on/off light switches. These can be used anywhere you have a dimmer switch or flick switch, as a direct replacement. These light switches are ideal for people who like the look of a dimmer switch but don’t particularly want the lights to dim. Please note, as these are Push-On and Push-Off the switch knob (Frog/Lizard etc) protrudes further than with a standard dimmer switches which look neater and have a satisfying ‘click’ action.
Please Note : Dimmer Switches are Not compatible with Energy Saving light bulbs. If used together either the bulb or the dimmer switch will burn out and no longer function. However, Dimmable Energy Saving light bulbs are now available, these are compatible with dimmer switches and can be used instead of a standard energy saving light bulb.
Light Switch Plate Dimensions - Size : Width 80mm, Height 80mm, Depth 12mm.
Our original dimmer switches before we start to loving customise them and make them look fab for you are made for us by VARILIGHT. VARILIGHT® is the brand name of Doyle & Tratt Products Ltd, the leading British manufacturer of dimmer switches and decorative electrical wiring accessories. VARILIGHT® dimmer switches have an industry-wide reputation for exceptional performance, long life and innovation.
Replacing a light switch is fairly straightforward, but you need to take great care as you are dealing with electricity which can be dangerous.
Step 1: Make sure you Turn the Power to the light switch Off at the main circuit breaker or fuse box. Test by turning the light switch on to make sure the Power is OFF. Tag the circuit box ´Man at Work/Do Not Touch´ or something similar so no one mistakenly turns the power back on while you´re working.
Step 2 : With a small screwdriver undo the two retaining screws that hold the cover plate onto the switch box and pull away the switch. (The cover plate is the piece of metal or plastic covering the switch.) Pull the switch away from the wall. The switch should come out a few inches, exposing the wires.
Tip : If it´s an old switch that has been painted around many times over the years a good idea is to score round it with a sharp knife. This stops you pulling away the paint work on the walls.
Step 3: Unscrew the small screws in the light switch terminals which hold the wires. Remove the wires making sure you tag which wire came from which screw (L1, L2 or C, they are also usually colour coded) with tape and reconnect them to the new light switch using exactly the same terminals .
NB You will see differing amounts of cable depending on what type of switch it is and how it has been wired. You´ll need to replace like with like and replace the cables in the same configuration. Make a note of what goes where and mark them with tape before you unscrew the cables. When you screw the cable to the new switch make sure they are nice and tight and no bare wire are showing.
Step 4: Make sure the wires are all firmly secured into the new switch terminal. Bend any extra sheathed cable neatly into the box so that it cannot be trapped by the new cover plate.
Step 5: Screw the new cover plate on, reconnect the power supply, then check the light works
NB Metal switches Must be earthed. The earth cable should be connected to the back box And the metal switch plate. If you´re replacing a plastic switch with a metal one and there is no earth cable to connect call a qualified electrician for assistance.
One way switch
A one way switch has a common (C) and Line out (L1) terminal.
The common is the main live coming in. The L1 is the switched live going out to the light. They will be marked so you can tell which is which.
Two way switch
A two way switch (for switching a light from two different locations like in a hallway) has a common (C) a L1 and an L2 terminal. L1 is off when L2 is on and vice versa depending on the switch position.
Our On/Off light switches actually come two way as standard for use as both.
REMEMBER... If in doubt consult a qualified electrician. Changing a light switch is relatively simple but it’s a job for someone who has experience with electrics.
Please don´t hesitate to get in touch if you have any technical queries technical@candyqueendesigns.co.uk
