Switch question??

nick7744 · 03-17-2003, 11:06 AM

I found a 15 amp at 125 volt AC switch at sears. West Marine sells a 20 amp 12 volt switch for 3 times the price. What is the difference between the two??

I am planning on running a fish finder, GPS, 2nd bilge pump thru the switch to my battery. All of these devices have their own fuses.

RoadDawg · 03-17-2003, 11:25 AM

my guess would be weather resistant??

XXX

davidd · 03-17-2003, 12:55 PM

I am not sure about 12v but at higher voltages an AC switch will not switch DC. You will turn it on one time after that the switch will be fused together and you will be unable to shut off the devices. Get the DC switch.
Dave

ALBEMARLE 28

seadoginit · 03-17-2003, 12:59 PM

use the 12 volt switch

Sea_Dad · 03-17-2003, 01:35 PM

Not so about fusing ac switches when trying to control dc circuits. It's the current that counts not whether its ac or dc.

The main reason is CG approval. Most non marine switches are not ignition proof. You are paying for the approval and sadly it's a niche market.