Choosing the correct Retrotouch switch guide

Choosing the correct Retrotouch switch guide

Choosing the Correct Retrotouch Switch

This guide helps you select the right Retrotouch switch based on how your lighting is wired, how many locations control the light, and whether you want dimming or smart functionality.

For product information and support resources, visit Retrotouch.


Step 1: How many locations control the light?

One-way switching

Choose a 1-Way On/Off Switch when a light is controlled from a single switch location.

Examples:

  • Bedroom light
  • Bathroom light
  • Utility room light

A one-way switch is the most common lighting arrangement in UK homes.


Two-way switching

Choose a 2-Way Switch when the same light is controlled from two different locations.

Examples:

  • Top and bottom of the stairs
  • Two entrances to a room
  • Long hallways

Retrotouch offers several solutions for two-way control, including standard touch switches, rotary dimmers, and smart Wi-Fi switches. (retrotouch.co.uk)


Intermediate switching (3 or more switch locations)

Choose an Intermediate Switch when one light is controlled from three or more locations.

Examples:

  • Three-storey staircases
  • Large hallways
  • Commercial corridors

In a traditional circuit, the middle switch(es) must be intermediate switches, while the switches at each end are two-way switches. 


Step 2: Do you want simple switching or dimming?

Standard On/Off Switch

Best if you only need to turn the lights on and off.

Suitable for:

  • LED lighting
  • General room lighting
  • Simple installations

Rotary Dimmer Switch

Choose a Rotary Dimmer if you want to adjust brightness.

Good for:

  • Living rooms
  • Dining rooms
  • Bedrooms
  • Feature lighting

Retrotouch rotary dimmers support two-way dimming installations, allowing a light to be controlled from two locations. (retrotouch.co.uk)
NOTE:


Touch Dimmer Switch

Choose a Touch Dimmer for modern glass-panel control and dimming.

Important: Retrotouch touch dimmer switches are not conventional two-way dimmers. If you require physical two-way dimming from two locations, a rotary dimmer solution may be more suitable. (Retrotouch Support)


Step 3: Do you want Smart Wi-Fi control?

Smart Wi-Fi Switch

Choose a Smart Wi-Fi Switch if you want:

  • Smartphone control
  • Voice assistant integration
  • Scheduling and automation
  • Wireless two-way control

Retrotouch smart switches can be wired as standard switches and then linked through the app to provide two-way or intermediate operation without traditional strapper wiring between switches. (Retrotouch Support)

Ideal for:

  • Renovations
  • Smart home upgrades
  • Replacing existing two-way circuits

Choose a Smart Wi-Fi Dimmer if you want both smart control and brightness adjustment.

Note: Retrotouch documentation states that a neutral wire is required for smart dimmer installations. (Manuals+)


Step 4: Check if you have a Neutral Wire

Before ordering smart products, verify your wiring.

No Neutral Available

You may be able to use:

  • Standard touch switches
  • Certain Retrotouch smart switches are designed to work without a neutral connection. NOTE: It is required for our touch Wi-Fi dimmer.

Retrotouch offers wiring options for Wi-Fi switches, with or without a neutral. (Retrotouch Support)

Neutral Available

You can typically install:

  • Smart Wi-Fi switches
  • Smart Wi-Fi dimmers
  • Most advanced smart products

Step 5: Select the Correct Gang Size

The number of "gangs" refers to the number of separate switches on the plate.

Gang Size

Controls

1 Gang

One lighting circuit

2 Gang

Two lighting circuits

3 Gang

Three lighting circuits

4 Gang

Four lighting circuits

For example, if one switch plate controls the hall light and the outside light, you would need a 2-gang switch.


Quick Selection Table

Your Requirement

Recommended Retrotouch Product Type

One switch controls one light

1-Way Touch Switch

Two switches control one light

2-Way Touch Switch or Smart Wi-Fi Switch

Three or more switches control one light    

Intermediate Switch System

Adjustable brightness

Rotary Dimmer or Touch Dimmer

Smart phone control

Smart Wi-Fi Switch

Smart control + dimming

Smart Wi-Fi Dimmer

Existing wiring has no neutral

Compatible Smart Switch or Standard Touch Switch

Existing wiring includes neutral

Any Smart Switch or Smart Dimmer


Common Questions

Can Retrotouch smart switches be used in two-way circuits?

Yes. Retrotouch Wi-Fi switches can be paired through the app to create two-way and intermediate switching arrangements. (Retrotouch Support)

Can touch dimmers be used as two-way dimmers?

No. Retrotouch states that their touch dimmer switches do not operate as conventional two-way dimmers. Rotary dimmers are the recommended option for two-way dimming. (Retrotouch Support)

What back box depth is required?

Retrotouch smart switches generally require a minimum 35mm back box depth for installation. (Manuals+)


Simple Decision Tree

  1. Do you want smart control?
    • Yes → Smart Wi-Fi Switch or Smart Wi-Fi Dimmer
    • No → Continue
  2. Do you need dimming?
    • Yes → Rotary Dimmer or Touch Dimmer
    • No → Standard Touch Switch
  3. How many locations control the light?
    • 1 location → One-way
    • 2 locations → Two-way
    • 3+ locations → Intermediate
  4. How many circuits are controlled on the plate?
    • 1, 2, 3, or 4 gangs accordingly

Need Help?

If you require further support or experience issues, please contact the support team:

Phone: +44 (0)1293 279 426
Email: support@retrotouch.co.uk

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