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Duplex Switches

A duplex switch contains two switches on one body. They come in single pole and 3-way. Two of the common terminals are connected together with a removable metal tab. These terminals are usually connected to line voltage and can be black or bronze color depending on the manufacturer. This tab is removed to isolate the tabs from each other. Find Duplex Switches

Duplex switches can replace a single switch without expanding the switch box. They can be used for ceiling fans where one switch controls the fan and the other switch controls the light kit.

Single Pole Duplex Switches

A single pole duplex switch contains two single pole switches.

Single Pole Duplex Switches

Metal tab connects line voltage together

Common terminals black or bronze color

Metal tab removed to isolate common terminals

Both common terminals connect to same line voltage

When the tab is removed, each common terminal can connect to a different phase of line voltage

Metal tab removed between common terminals

Metal tab between common terminals

Ceiling fan diagram using duplex switch

3-way Duplex Switches

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