Brad,

I'm seeking a covered switch 240 volt, maybe 20 amp. Will be installed by a sparky. What I have in mind has a plastic flip up cover (transparent or not, doesn't matter) to prevent accidental switching off.

I can't find anything like that in HPM and Clipsal catalogues, but then I find them a pain to use online anyway.

I'm sure these used to exist. Are such things still made?

What about one of these http://www.clipsal.com/Trade/Products/ProductDetail?catno=255 with a standard sized switch mech?

Ben

I did look at those boxes, but the application requires a heavy duty switch, maybe 20 amps, and may also be DPST.

In my mind's eye I can see just the thing, but it may not be made anymore.

Then again, they do have this mech:

http://www.clipsal.com/Trade/Products/ProductDetail?CatNo=30MD20

How big & Ugly? My solar unit has an enclosure on the wall similar to a fuse box that has a conventional CB in it rated at 20A It looks like it could hold three. As you would know those CB's come in smaller & bigger currents ratings. this has a lid that you could use Burndy tie or lock on.

You may have search solar for that one. There are some switches with pins & provision for locks etc that have no cover.

Marc

If you are getting a sparky to do it then maybe you should explain to them what you want. They can show you before its done so you can say yay or nay.

Could you use one of these? You don't have to use a padlock and a slight mod would allow you to prevent switch off instead of switch on.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/deta-20-amp-lockable-weatherproof-isolator_p4430665

https://www.zippyelectricalsuppliers.com.au/2-Pole-20AMP-Weather-Proof%20Isolator

I ruled those lockable ones out as it needs to be covered.

Unless Brad chimes in with an answer to my original question, then I'm heading towards posts #2 and #3.

The thing with the solar one having a circuit breaker; using that for a switch (which happens) given the chance & conditions, it will shut itself off.

Thanks, but there is already a breaker in the circuit. The requirement is simply for a remote switch.

G
Hi G,

Have a look at Lutron stuff, I use too
Rep for them selling the Graphic eye System. They have a tons of switches, Lutron was the inventer of the Dimmer switch in 58 I think, it was one of their sales plugs. I have a good mate at Lutron still , he would know if their available, but look up Lutron on the net . Worth a look,
All the best pete

Have a look at Lutron stuff

Lutron USA? I have to use Australian Approved stuff.

For a covered switch there's only two options I think. The Clipsal box at the link in Post 2 is the most common way. HPM makes a flush-mount version that is partially installed into the wall so it doesn't stick out as much. I don't know if this one is lockable though.

https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=USe3FySC&id=C25A7...46392&q=weatherproof+switch+box+clipsal&simid=608...222&selectedIndex=8&ajaxhist=0

NB: Yes, anything connected to hard wiring must carry an Australian approval number or C-Tick logo.

I can't find anything like that in HPM and Clipsal catalogues, but then I find them a pain to use online anyway.

Indeed they are both a pain and always have been. If one is lucky enough to get the Clipsal and HPM catalogues on CD then they should treat those like gold as they are very hard to get but apart from that we are stuck with websites that aren't fit for purpose.

Lutron is Australia approved, All the Architect s use it in their designs here. Thats who I sold it too. They use it in high end design and hotels etc etc.
Yes its made in the USA. They use to be the worlds largest lighting company. I was their Rep for controlled lighting systems about 2 years ago.
I will have a look and see if they have covered switches.

Thanks, Brad.

What I had in mind was something compact and neat like this covered outlet, except that it houses a switch mechanism:

http://img.diytrade.com/cdimg/1453800/21232855/0/1321518308.jpg

Pete, thanks.

That box pattern is similar to the Clipsal 56 Series. Clipsal make a box like that with a standard mechanism in it but I don't think they have a version with a lid.

UPDATE: I was wrong. http://www.clipsal.com/Trade/Products/ProductDetail?CatNo=56/32LE&c=6&ms=8&s=36&mg=12064

Standard switch mechs can snap into those. You would need to purchase a back for it too, or if it is going on a Gyprock wall the 56 Series flushmount kit should hold it.