A retractive switch is a switch that returns to its original state after being pressed – unlike a common toggle or rocker switch, which maintains its pressed position.

While they are a common sight in industrial and commercial settings, retractive switches have recently become more prevalent in the home, largely due to the advent of smart home technology. They generally cost more than common 1- or 2-way switches and come in a range of varieties and designs to suit different purposes.

Push Button Retractive Switch

Push button retractive switches can come in a number of styles – from the smaller, more subtle designs used for lighting controls and doorbells, to the larger, industrial-looking buttons employed for door releases and emergency stop buttons.

One-way Retractive Switch

This switch closely resembles a regular one-way rocker switch and has the same up and down ON/OFF positions. However, it contains an internal spring that automatically resets the switch back to OFF upon release.

One-way retractive switches can be used in any situation where only a momentary electrical signal is required, such as internal bell switches and timed door releases.

Two-way & Off Retractive Switch

The two-way and off retractive switch has three positions – two up-and-down ON positions, with an OFF position in the centre. Similar to the one-way retractive switch, it is sprung and automatically resets to the central OFF position.

You can use two-way and off retractive switches to operate anything that requires raising or lowering – for example, an electronic shutter or blind.

Retractive switches in the home

Retractive Switches for Smart Homes

A smart home is an environment that allows appliances and devices in the home to be connected over a digital network and managed through a central hub. You can then monitor and control these devices through an app on a smartphone or tablet, meaning you can turn on the heating before you arrive home or set a timer to heat up the coffee machine before you wake up.

On top of the app controls, a smart home is also typically controlled through internal buttons and switches, and the retractive switch is often the most versatile choice in this environment.

Having a retractive switch that sends a momentary signal, rather than maintaining a switched-on position, is useful in a smart home because that signal can be programmed to trigger a wide variety of functions. The switch could raise and lower a blind or shutter, control lighting, turn up a thermostat, or even control an entertainment system.

Retractive Switches with Dimming Packs

Retractive switches can be fitted with dimming packs for simple light level control, allowing a single switch to both switch a light on and off, and control dimming. A quick push on the switch will turn the light on or off. When the switch is held down, the lights will dim down. When pressed and held again, it will dim up.

Unlike a basic rotary dimmer, a retractive switch with a dimming pack allows you to adjust light levels from multiple locations. For example, if you had rotary dimmers at the top and bottom of the stairs, only one would be able to adjust the light level. However, with a retractive switch you can control the light level using both the upstairs and downstairs switches.

Also, basic rotary dimmers can be prone to flickering, especially when used with LED bulbs. This is not an issue when using a retractive switch.

You can't simply install a retractive switch in place of a regular rocker or toggle switch as they require different wiring setups. Please consult a qualified electrician before attempting installation.

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