Pull switch


A pull switch is a switch that is actuated by means of a chain or string.
An electric pull switch is attached to a toggle type switch: one pull to switch on and next pull to switch off.
The most common use of a pull switch is to operate a ceiling electric light. The ceiling fan and mechanical wall fans are also appliances often operated by pull switches. Pull switches may be either two-position or multi-position.
Mounted inside a pull switch, there could be two types of two-position toggle switches. One type would switch to closed already during the initial pull in the string. The other type would switch to closed only when releasing after a full pull. With the first type, the weight of the string and handle could accidentally switch the load intermittently on and off, when still around the initial position. This could potentially increase the danger of overheating in the switch.
In a damp environment, electrical pull switches have a safety advantage because the user is separated from the electricity by a significant distance if the lead is made of an electrically insulating material, such as cotton string.
Most commercially available pull switches use a short length of ball chain, which may then be connected to any number of optional leads for added length or decoration. Leads for decoration or utility are usually made of metal or plastic. They can come in many different shapes ranging from animals, geometric shapes, or look just like a weight.