Suitable replacement for antique switches

Marvo · Dec 17, 2017

I have a client with a house full of these switches and I need to find a suitable replacement for several of the porcelain switch modules.

Any ideas?

[ElectriciansForums.net] Suitable replacement for antique switches

M-Ty · Dec 18, 2017

The mounting yokes have a vaguely American look to them.
The nearest UK thing I can think of is the mechanism of the early Wylex MCB rewireable fuse replacements from around 30 years ago
(such as WYLEX 5 15 20 30 45 AMP PUSH BUTTON PLUG IN MCB CIRCUIT BREAKERS | eBay - https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/WYLEX-5-15-20-30-45-AMP-PUSH-BUTTON-PLUG-IN-MCB-CIRCUIT-BREAKERS/170983299526?hash=item27cf6619c6:m:movAJepVIyjIvkHbyDpsFpg)

marconi · Dec 18, 2017

I think the switches may be by Pass and Seymour, a US firm of switch makers. See:

Push Button Light Switches, Push Button Light Switch Covers, Dimmers - https://www.kyleswitchplates.com/push-button-switches-plates/

Remember to check contact voltage and current ratings and action. Some of the switches I looked at were only for low voltage use. You may have to use low voltage switches to operate relays or contactors.

Marvo · Dec 18, 2017

The switches are US origin, manufactured by H&H switches (Arrow-Hart & Hegeman Electric Co).
I've found a company in the US that manufactures modern day replacements and they seem to do the full range but it's easier for me to import from a UK supplier if there is one.

marconi · Dec 18, 2017

All my searches on H&H and alternative search terms only ever turns up US sites. Sorry can't do better. I would not know for certain if these switches are used in the UK - I suspect not.

Marvo · Dec 18, 2017

You may be right, I'm also not sure if they were widely sold in the UK or not. Wishful thinking on my part, thanks for you and M-ty taking the time to look.