Generally, a light switch comes in a monotone color such as white, black, brown, or red. It does not glow in any scenario or change its shade to something else. Conventionally, such a happening remains associated with a light bulb or LED. Nevertheless, the case is a little different with illuminated light switch types. They are also branded as night lights.
Why is My Light Switch Glowing Orange? A light switch may glow and appear orange if it is an illuminated one. The appearance and position of the color vary with the switch category. A night light can get classified as either a locator, pilot, or lighted toggle.
What Are The Different And Distinct Types Of Illuminated Light Switches?
An illuminated light switch has the primary purpose of indicating its position by a particular color or glow. It helps find the electrical appliance or assess its location in dark or dimly lit conditions. In general cases, the illumination color is orange. Sometimes, it may be some notable and recognizable shade, such as red.
Overall, an illuminated light switch can get categorized or classified into the following types or kinds:
Locator Light Switch
A locator light switch gets illuminated when they remain in the OFF position. The glow helps locate the electrical appliance in dark environments or rooms.
Pilot Light Switch
A pilot light switch gets illuminated in the exact opposition condition as a locator light switch. In other words, it glows when it remains in the ON position.
Such lighting generally works to alert or warn about another light switch. It typically remains associated with ones that are out of sight and site. It can be in the closet, porch, or basement. The glow helps indicate that the other light switch is ON.
Lighted Toggle Light Switch
A few unique and distinctive toggle light switches come with lighted handles. They glow orange to mark their location or position in dimly lit or dark places, such as hallways and rooms.
In some other cases, the toggle light switches may glow or get illuminated solely around the edge or end.
Is It Normal For An Illuminated Light Switch To Blink Or Flicker When Glowing Orange?
The most “normal” operational condition is a continuous orange glow for an illuminated light switch. It implies that the illumination should not flicker or blink. If it shows such behavior, it indicates some problem with the entirety of the night light or its lighting component.
For instance, the part responsible for the orange illumination may be broken or damaged. It may be due to extensive use and abuse. It can lead to undesired blinking or flickering. Otherwise, it may signify that the light switch has turned old and needs to get replaced.
Can Any Light Switch Other Than The Illuminated Ones Glow Orange?
Generally, only illuminated light switches or night lights come with the feature and ability to glow in the dark. The conventional counterparts of these electrical appliances do not possess this attribute. Nevertheless, some exceptions may exist.
However, exceptions can get found in very few cases. For that reason, an individual can assume that the traditional light switch has some issues within its components or parts if it starts glowing. It is especially so if the illumination color is close to dark orange or even red.
It may indicate that some part inside the light switch is burning or melting down. In the worst-case scenarios, it can result in an undesired electrical spark. It may lead to a fire. The best course of action is to repair the light switch or replace it altogether.
What Are The General Indications And Signs That Show When It Is Time To Replace A Light Switch?
Several indications exist to show when a light switch needs replacement. It is best to heed and follow such signs as they help prevent and avoid further complications and dangers. It can consist of detrimental situations such as an electrical appliance catching on fire.
A few light switch replacement time indications consist of the following:
- Delay
Suppose you turn a light switch to its ON position. However, it takes a short while before the connected light bulbs or LED lights to start operating or functioning. In some cases, the lights may even flicker before turning on perfectly.
If the problem persists even after replacing the light bulb, the issue lies with the light switch. In such cases, it is time to change or replace the latter.
- Noise
A light switch may make a clicking sound when switched or flicked between its ON and OFF positions. However, there may be some internal issues with the electrical appliance if it produces continuous noise. It may be a buzzing sound or anything that seems unnatural or unordinary. Such noises indicate that the light switch requires replacement.
- Sparks
Although uncommon, the worst thing that can happen to a light switch is catching on fire. It generally happens or originates from a spark formed in the internal components of the electrical appliance.
The issue is highly detrimental because it cannot get detected easily. In addition to that, it becomes arduous without opening up and looking behind the light switch. For that reason, it remains unhandled for a considerable time and develops into something irreversible.
Nevertheless, a light switch should get replaced at the earliest signs of a spark. It can consist of rapid light flickering, smoke, a burning smell, or even a sparkling sound.
- Heat
Suppose a light switch feels warm when it remains in the ON position. In such cases, it indicates that something is wrong with the electrical appliance and that it is best to replace it.
It is natural for a few light switches to get warm or heated during operation. It can consist of dimmer varieties. Such a phenomenon comes with its design and functioning. However, it is not a regular or standard occurrence for conventional light switches. They should not feel warm or hot to touch no matter how long they get used.