Question About AC vs DC Rocker Switch

[PoiYui]

I need some advice from an expert in the forum. Can I use a 120VAC
rocker switch with 12VDC current? The switch will be carrying less than
6A (75W). It switch's rating is 10A 125VAC/6A 250VAC.

Thanks

 

[CFoley1064]

Subject: Question About AC vs DC Rocker Switch

From: "PoiYui" [email protected]
Date: 12/24/2004 9:32 AM Central Standard Time
Message-id: <[email protected]>

I need some advice from an expert in the forum. Can I use a 120VAC
rocker switch with 12VDC current? The switch will be carrying less than
6A (75W). It switch's rating is 10A 125VAC/6A 250VAC.

Thanks

You can probably use it (unless your load is inductive), but it won't last very
long. DC rated switches will pull the contacts farther apart (because of
arcing considerations), and also pull away faster than switches that are only
AC rated.

Get one that's rated for DC service.

Good luck
Chris