The Single Pole Switch

The Single-Pole Switch

The single-pole light switch is one of the most common components you may encounter when working on residential electric systems. The term “single-pole” means that it connects (or disconnects) a single circuit when you flip the switch. 

The front of the single-pole switch is identified by the “on/off” label on the switch. Note: the 3-way switch does not have these words.

The back of the single pole switch has two screw terminals on the left side and a ground lug on the lower-right side. The hot and load wires will be connected to the screw terminals while the ground wire is connected to the ground lug.

There are alternative methods of connecting the wire to the switch. This includes the less recommended ‘backstab’ method as well as the backplate method of connecting the wires. Below is a short video discussing a couple of the switch types and their connectors, you may encounter as an electrician.