Technical Specifications
• Current Rating:
o 45A (Standard): The most common rating for modern instant showers (up to 9.5kW–10.5kW).
o 20A: Typically used for smaller storage water heaters or low-power (3kW–4.5kW) systems.
• Voltage: Rated for 220V – 250V AC (50/60Hz).
• Switch Type: Double Pole (DP). This is a critical safety feature that disconnects both the Live and Neutral wires simultaneously to ensure the appliance is completely isolated from the power supply.
• Plate Dimensions: Standard square plate is 86mm x 86mm.
• Back Box Depth: Requires a deeper back box, typically 35mm to 47mm, to accommodate the thicker heavy-duty cables (e.g., 4mm² or 6mm²).
• Materials: Constructed from fire-retardant Polycarbonate, Bakelite, or Urea Formaldehyde to withstand high temperatures without melting.
Key Features
• Neon Indicator Light: A red light that clearly indicates whether the switch is currently "ON".
• Mechanical Indicator: High-quality models often include a physical "ON/OFF" label on the rocker itself as a backup to the neon light.
• Heavy-Duty Terminals: Features high-conductivity brass terminals designed to securely grip thick cables and prevent loose connections that cause overheating.
• Pull-Cord Variant: In some installations, a ceiling-mounted pull-cord switch (rated 45A or 50A) is used to allow safe operation from within a damp bathroom environment.
• Compliance: Should meet BS 3676 or BS EN 60669-1 standards.