What Is a One Way Light Switch?
A one way light switch is where one switch controls one light. This is in contrast to a light or lighting circuit controlled by two or more switches.
When do you use a one way light switch?
A one-way light switch is used whenever there's only one switch per light — the most common setup in most rooms of a house. Because the electrical components are very similar to one-way or two-way switches, many manufacturers now only produce two-way switches, which can be wired as one-way simply by leaving one terminal unconnected. See our guide on using a 2-way switch for 1-way switching for the wiring detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a one way light switch?
A one way light switch is a switch that controls a light or lighting circuit from a single location, with no other switches involved.
Can I still buy a genuine one-way-only switch?
Many manufacturers now only produce two-way switches, wired as one-way when needed, since the manufacturing cost is very similar. Our range works the same way.
Related guide: can I use a 2-way switch for 1-way?