Using domestic spur switch for 12v

[mattonthesea]

I need a decent switch for the fridge. I want an indicator that it is on as well. All I can find on this by Google is domestic 240-volt spur switch with a neon light. Is there any reason why I shouldn't use one of these for a 12-volt fridge?

 

[geoffatstanpit]

I need a decent switch for the fridge. I want an indicator that it is on as well. All I can find on this by Google is domestic 240-volt spur switch with a neon light. Is there any reason why I shouldn't use one of these for a 12-volt fridge?

12 volts won't light a neon light.

 

[Rappey]

What's wrong with 12v switches with led from chandlers?

 

[john_morris_uk]

You also ought to be aware that the rating of AC switches is a lot more generous/lenient than a DC switch of a similar size. If the AC is switched off and the switch arcs it’s only transient as the current effectively reduces to zero less than 1/100th of a second later. If you switch an inductive DC load off and the switch arcs it tends to carry on arcing.
The better DC switches have a ‘snap’ action to minimise the problem.
Just sayin…

 

[mattonthesea]

What's wrong with 12v switches with led from chandlers?

Unfortunately no chandlers in Bristol any more; and online I can only find switch banks. I only want one ?

 

[john_morris_uk]

Unfortunately no chandlers in Bristol any more; and online I can only find switch banks. I only want one ?

12 volt dc/30 amp rocker switch with led - Google Search
Other ratings available..

 

[Rappey]

Ebay? Often very cheap for leds ,switches etc. Can buy a few at some of the prices.

 

[PetiteFleur]

Lots on ebay or try 12 volt planet

 

[mattonthesea]

Sorry, forgot to say that I need to mount it on half inch ply so normal car stuff won't work.

 

[PaulRainbow]

Sorry, forgot to say that I need to mount it on half inch ply so normal car stuff won't work.

Look for something like Carling Contura Matt. Rocker switches available with LED illumination and /or "on" LED

 

[Tranona]

Suggest you counterbore the back of the panel to take the back of the switch.

 

[KompetentKrew]

Sorry, forgot to say that I need to mount it on half inch ply so normal car stuff won't work.

Can you drill a hole in the ply?

• ON/OFF Push Switch, Round, Red LED Illumination - 10A@12V
• https://www.amazon.co.uk//dp/B00ICMJJHI

 

[VicS]

Sorry, forgot to say that I need to mount it on half inch ply so normal car stuff won't work.

If you were planning to use a 240 volt spur switch why not mount an illuminated 12 volt switch ( and a fuse ?) on a blanking plate and use that.



Or make a suitable panel

 

[Boathook]

Look for something like Carling Contura Matt. Rocker switches available with LED illumination and /or "on" LED

I've mounted something like that in a ply panel. Even managed to make the hole the correct size for the switch to push in! Now have a few more tools to make the next one easier ...

 

[mattonthesea]

Update: have gone for one of those round rocker switches as I can wedge it in place and have drill bits to fit

Thanks all for your advice. It's great to get different ideas.