Modular Switches Made Simple: Designs, Ratings and Planning for Your New Home

1. Box: fixed inside the wall during wiring (metal or PVC)
2. Modules: the individual switches, sockets, regulators and other devices
3. Plate: the decorative cover on the front

Because each part is separate, you can mix and match, replace a single module if it fails, and choose from many plate designs.

Understanding Module Sizes

Each item takes up a certain number of module spaces (M):

Plates and boxes come in standard sizes such as 1M, 2M, 3M, 4M, 6M, 8M, 12M and 18M. Plan the modules first, then pick the plate size that fits, leaving a blank or two for future additions if possible.

• 6A switches and sockets: for lights, fans, phone chargers, TVs, laptops and other small appliances
• 16A switches and sockets: for heavy appliances such as AC, geyser, microwave, oven, washing machine, refrigerator, room heater, iron and induction cooktop Using a 6A socket for a heavy appliance can cause overheating. Always use 16A points where heavy appliances will be plugged in.

Room-by-Room Switchboard Planning

Living Room (main board near the entrance)

• Switches for main lights, fan, cove lights and decorative lights
• Fan regulator (or remote for BLDC fans)
• 6A socket for a mobile charger
• Consider a USB charging module

Typical plate: 8M or 12M

Living Room TV Wall

• Multiple 6A sockets for TV, set-top box, sound bar, router
• TV and data points if needed

Typical plate: 6M or 8M

Bedroom (near the door)

• Switches for main light, fan and other lights
• Fan regulator or BLDC control
• 6A socket

Typical plate: 6M or 8M

Bedroom (beside the bed)

• Switch for fan and reading light, so you do not have to get up
• 6A socket for phone charging
• USB charger (optional)

Typical plate: 4M or 6M on each side

Bedroom AC Point

• 16A switch and socket at the AC height

Typical plate: 3M or 4M

Kitchen

• Several 16A switch and socket points along the counter
• Points for refrigerator, microwave, mixer, induction, water purifier and chimney
• Light and exhaust fan switches Tip: Plan more kitchen sockets than you think you need.

Bathroom

• Geyser 16A switch with an indicator, placed outside the bathroom or away from water
• Switches for light and exhaust fan

Utility / Balcony

• 16A point for the washing machine
• Light switch

Choosing a Design and Finish

Switches are now an interior design element. Popular choices include:

• Classic white: clean, timeless and easy to match
• Matte black or grey: modern look, great with contemporary interiors
• Metallic and champagne finishes: premium, elegant feel
• Glass and wood-look plates: statement designs for living rooms Tip: Use a premium range in the living and dining areas where guests see them, and a durable, simpler range in utility areas.

Smart and Convenience Features

• USB charging modules reduce the need for separate adapters
• Two-way switches for staircases and rooms with two entrances
• Indicator switches show when the geyser is on
• Smart switches let you control lights from your phone or voice assistant (plan for these during wiring, as some need neutral wires or a hub)
• Child-safe sockets with shutters for homes with small children

Common Planning Mistakes

1. Too few sockets near the bed and TV. Modern homes have many devices.
2. No 16A points in the kitchen. Heavy appliances then end up on extension boards.
3. Geyser switches inside wet areas. Keep them dry and accessible.
4. No two-way switches on staircases.
5. Mixing different ranges in one room. It can look inconsistent.
6. Not leaving spare modules for future needs.

Simple Checklist Before You Buy

• Make a list of every switchboard location
• Write the modules needed at each location
• Choose plate sizes and boxes to match
• Decide the design range and finish
• Bring the list to the shop and confirm quantities

Plan Your Switches With Bharathi Electricals, Chickpet

See and feel different switch ranges and finishes in person. Bring your room plan, and we will help you count modules, choose plate sizes and stay within budget.

Bharathi Electricals, Havells Authorised Partner

1st Floor, Metro Station, VMKG Complex, #50, Gundopanth St, near Chickpet, Old Tharagupet, Mamulpet, Chickpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560053 Nearest metro: Chickpete Metro Station (Green Line), a short walk away. Majestic interchange (Purple and Green Lines) is close by.

One fair price for everyone, no commission added. Serving Bengaluru since 2005.