Some switches are operated with keys, timers or photoelectric eyes that sense daylight. Some switches are paired up with electrical outlets (a "combination" switch). You say it's hard to find a switch in the dark? For that situation, you need a switch with a pilot light.
Outdoor switches, mounted in a special waterproof electrical box, are operated with a lever that protects against shock.
Switches should match the amperage and voltage ratings for the electrical circuit that they serve. And if your home has aluminum wiring, be sure the switches attached to that wiring are designated "CU-AL" for compatibility--otherwise they can be a fire hazard.
The most familiar light switch, the common "light switch" is actually referred to by hardware dealers and electricians as a "single pole light switch."
With a single-pole light switch, the simplest and most common type, flipping the lever up completes the circuit, turning lights or appliances on and flipping it down breaks the circuit, turning lights or receptacles off.
A single pole switch has two brass terminal screws on the side that receive the black wires of the circuit. Modern single-pole switches also have a green grounding screw that should be connected to the circuit's ground wire (not shown in the illustration).
The type of switch that will operate hallway lights from either end of the hallway is called a three-way switch; it has an extra terminal. Two are required. For more about how to wire three-way switches, see three-way switches.
