How do I rewire this old double light switch? Ask questions and find answers to many subjects relating to electrics and electrical work

[AndyFaeLarky]

I have a double light switch that controls the kitchen and the outside lights. I want to replace it with a new switch but the new switch looks very different to the old one.

I tried to post photos but couldn't for some reason.

Any able to help me - I can send phots if required.

Andy

[Mr White]

Without pictures, anything is just a guess.

Allowed file types are jpg, jpeg, gif and png with a maximum file size of 500KB per image file and maximum dimensions of no more than 1024 pixels in width and no more than 1000 pixels in height.

[ericmark]

Some switches use the label 'com' plus L1 and L2, and others just L1, L2, L3, if that is the case L1 = Com, L2 = L1, and L3 = L2.

Also switches some times have a place for the neutrals, seem to remember called Loop, this does not connect to anything, and if the new switch does not have it, then a bit of terminal block is required.

Switches come in many types.
Single pole on/off two terminals used.
Two way, better name is change over, three terminals used.
Intermediate, better name reversing switch, four terminals used.
Double pole on/off again four terminals used, and looks very much like the Intermediate switch but inside very different.

For an outside light I would use a double pole on/off switch, and since the other switch is simple single pole on/off I would use a grid switch, where I can select switch wanted and click them into a plate.

With this in mind you need to reduce picture size and post them, I use FastStone Photo Resizer in the main, it was a free program, there are other free programs like Gimp, or those you pay for like Photoshop.