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Fan Isolator Switches

A fan isolator switch lets an extractor fan be switched off completely for cleaning or repair while the lights on the same circuit stay on. The fan isolators here are Knightsbridge 10A triple pole switches and modules for en-suite and family bathrooms, utility rooms and store rooms, as standalone plates in white and metal finishes, grid modules for multi-function plates, and key switch modules that stop casual switching.

Choosing Fan Isolator Switches

Match the plate style to the room's other switches, then choose between a standalone switch, a grid module and a key switch.

Why triple pole

A bathroom fan with an overrun timer is often wired into the lighting circuit, so it takes a switched live from the light as well as a permanent supply. A triple pole isolator breaks the three conductors together, so the fan can be serviced while the lighting circuit stays live. Every switch and module here is a 10A triple pole isolator.

Plate styles

Standalone Knightsbridge isolators come as screwless low-profile plates (SF1100), ultra-low-profile flat plates (FP1100), rounded-edge metal (CL11) and square-edge metal (CS11), with the curved-edge white CU1100 and the metal clad M1100 alongside. Most SF1100 and FP1100 plates have a built-in gasket, and the SN1100 is a hard-wearing white thermoset plate.

Grid and key switch modules

GDM020 modules such as the GDM020MB and GDM020BN clip into the front of Knightsbridge Grid frames, and most GDM020 modules are engraved FAN ISOLATOR. GDM021 modules add key operation to prevent unauthorised switching, with the key included. The CUGM19 and CUGM19K are made for the Curved Edge grid system.

StyleExampleNote
Screwless low profileSF1100MWMatt white, built-in gasket
Flat plateFP1100BCUltra low profile, brushed chrome
Rounded edge metalCL11PCPolished chrome, metal rocker
Square edge metalCS11ABAntique brass
Metal cladM1100Back box included
Grid moduleGDM020BNBlack nickel, clips into a grid frame
Key switch moduleGDM021MBMatt black, key included
Thermoset plateSN1100White, pack of 10

Brands we stock in Fan Isolator Switches

Knightsbridge.

All the fan isolators here are Knightsbridge models.

Related categories

Build a multi-function plate with grid switches, match the room with light switches or pull cord switches, and isolate other fixed appliances with fused spurs. The M1100 and other surface switches sit on metal back boxes.

Frequently asked questions

How do you wire a fan isolator switch?

Wire a fan isolator switch by connecting the incoming permanent live, switched live and neutral to its supply terminals, then running matching cores on to the fan. With the switch off, the three conductors to the fan are broken together. Turn off and test the circuit before starting, follow the fan maker's wiring diagram, and use a qualified electrician if you are unsure.

What is a fused fan isolator switch?

A fused fan isolator switch combines a triple pole isolator with a fuse, so the fan gets its own overload protection as well as a way to switch it off. It usually takes a low-rated fuse. Some fan makers ask for fused protection, so check the fan's fitting instructions. Unfused isolators rely on the circuit's own protective device instead.

What does a fan isolator switch do?

A fan isolator switch cuts the power to an extractor fan so it can be cleaned, repaired or replaced safely. It is usually a triple pole switch rated at 10A, because a timer fan has two live feeds plus a neutral. The range here includes standalone plates, grid modules and key switch modules in a choice of finishes.

Can a fan isolator switch be in the bathroom?

Yes, as long as it sits outside the bathroom zones. It is usually fitted outside the room, often beside or above the door, so it is out of reach of anyone using the bath or shower. Check the fan maker's instructions and the wiring regulations before you settle on a position.

  • Established 1975
  • Birmingham trade counter
  • UK-only supply

Written by the West Midlands Electrics technical team

Updated

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