While the 2017 National Electrical Code book does not provide a specific definition for “switching device” or for “switch,” it does define many specific types of switches and disconnects. In other words, a circuit breaker protects a circuit from overload by automatically shutting off the circuit. And a breaker can also be shut off manually by flipping its toggle switch. Every electrical circuit in a modern home’s electrical system is protected by a circuit breaker. The breakers are housed in the main service panel, commonly called the breaker box. Older homes often have fuses instead of circuit breakers. Fuses function differently from circuit breakers and must be removed (rather than switched off) to open the circuit manually. When a fused circuit is overloaded, the fuse blows automatically and opens the circuit. While circuit breakers and fuses meet the technical definition of switching devices, they are not intended to be used as routine general-use switches to control power flow on a regular basis. The NEC calls these devices “overcorrect protective devices,” not general-use switches. A circuit breaker has a limited number of cycles in its lifetime operation, and it should not be used in the same manner as a wall switch to routinely control power, other than during repair or replacement work on the circuit. In this case, “interrupting” means opening the circuit to stop the flow of electricity through the switch. This type of switching device includes standard wall switches that control light fixtures and appliances (such as a garbage disposer) throughout a home. Switches on standard 120-volt circuits typically are rated for either 15 or 20 amps. This is a general definition that can apply to many types of switches and disconnecting devices. A good example in a home is a disconnect switch or service disconnect that is installed between a utility meter and a home’s service panel. This switch isolates the service panel from the source of utility power. The main circuit breaker on a service panel is another form of disconnecting means. A disconnecting means can also be in the form of a standard switch, such as the toggle switch used to shut off the power to a gas furnace. This type of disconnect often is subject to special installation requirements; for example, it may need to be reachable or at least clearly visible from the appliance location. A transfer switch is a special type of switch in that it’s not simply for cutting power to a circuit. Rather, it transfers the path of electricity from one power source to another. Homes that have large generators for backup power usually have a transfer switch that changes the connection from the utility source to the generator. Some solar power systems use a form of transfer switch to disconnect from the utility grid and connect to the solar power source, and vice versa.
