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Main switches are electrical isolator devices that disconnect entire installations or circuits from power supply. Available in 80A-100A ratings with single-pole, double-pole, or three-pole configurations, they enable safe maintenance isolation, emergency disconnection, and comply with AS/NZS 3000:2018 Australian standards. Features include DIN rail mounting, mechanical endurance up to 40,000 operations, and clear ON/OFF indication for residential and commercial switchboard applications.
A main switch (or isolator) is designed purely to switch power on and off manually—it does not provide overcurrent protection. A circuit breaker automatically trips during overload or fault conditions to protect circuits. Main switches are used for isolation during maintenance and servicing, allowing electricians to safely de-energise circuits. Circuit breakers protect against electrical faults but aren't designed for frequent switching operations.
Single-pole (1P) switches disconnect only the active conductor and are used for single-phase mains circuits or specific single-phase loads. Double-pole (2P) switches disconnect both active and neutral, providing complete isolation for single-phase installations—the most common choice for residential switchboards. Three-pole (3P) switches disconnect all three phases and are essential for three-phase installations in commercial and industrial applications.
The amp rating indicates the maximum continuous current the switch can safely handle. An 80amp switch is suitable for most residential installations with standard loads, whilst a 100amp switch is required for larger residential properties or commercial installations with higher electrical demands. The choice depends on the main service size, connected load calculations, and local regulations. Always match the main switch rating to or exceed the main incoming service rating.
Yes. AS/NZS 3000:2018 Clause 2.3.3 requires that every electrical installation has a main switch located at the main switchboard to enable complete isolation of the installation. The main switch must be readily accessible, clearly identified, and capable of being locked in the OFF position where required. All main switches sold at Sparky Direct comply with IEC 60947-3 standards and are suitable for installations complying with Australian Wiring Rules.
| Specification | 80amp Models | 100amp Models | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated Current | 80A | 100A | Maximum continuous current capacity |
| Rated Voltage | 240V (1P/2P), 415V (3P) | Suitable for Australian single & three-phase systems | |
| Insulation Voltage | 500VAC | Protection against voltage stress | |
| Mechanical Endurance | 40,000 operations (Hager) | 20,000 operations (Clipsal MAX9) | Expected lifetime switching cycles |
| Electrical Endurance | 10,000 cycles under load | Switching operations with a connected load | |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to +70°C | Suitable for Australian climate extremes | |
| Mounting | DIN Rail (35mm) | Standard modular installation | |
| Degree of Protection | IP20 (IP40 when enclosed) | Protected against solid objects >12.5mm | |
| Standards Compliance | IEC 60947-3, AS/NZS 3000 | Meets Australian electrical safety requirements | |
The 80A rating suits most standard residential installations with typical loads up to 18kW (single-phase) or 55kW (three-phase). The 100A rating provides additional capacity for larger homes with significant electrical loads such as ducted air conditioning, electric vehicle charging, pool equipment, or commercial applications. The mechanical endurance of 20,000-40,000 operations ensures reliability throughout the installation's lifetime, whilst the -25°C to +70°C operating range covers all Australian climate conditions from Tasmania winters to northern Queensland summers.
Switches Single Active Conductor
Use: For switching individual active lines in single-phase circuits where neutral remains connected. Common in residential switchboards
Width: 2 modules (18mm)
Voltage: 240V AC
Most common configuration for Australian homes—required by AS/NZS 3000 for main switchboard isolation.
Switches Two Active Phases
Use: Simultaneously disconnects two active conductors while leaving the neutral connected.providing complete isolation for maintenance safety.
Width: 2-4 modules (18-36mm depending on brand)
Voltage: 240V/415V AC
For Australian homes—required by AS/NZS 3000 for main switchboard isolation.
Switches All Three Phases
Use: Essential for three-phase commercial and industrial installations. Disconnects all three active phases (L1, L2, L3) simultaneously whilst neutral remains on a separate bar. Required for three-phase motors, machinery, and large commercial loads.
Width: 3-6 modules (27-54mm depending on brand)
Voltage: 415V AC
Standard for commercial premises, workshops, factories, and large residential properties with three-phase supply.
Selecting the correct main switch requires matching the amp rating, pole configuration, and voltage to your installation's requirements whilst ensuring compliance with AS/NZS 3000:2018 standards.
Check your main incoming service. Single-phase installations have one active and neutral (most residential). Three-phase installations have three active and neutral (larger homes, commercial premises). This determines whether you need a 1P, 2P, or 3P configuration.
Review your main service fuse/breaker rating from the meter box or distribution authority documentation. The main switch must have a rating equal to or greater than this rating. Standard residential is typically 63-80A single-phase. Larger homes or commercial may be 100A or three-phase. Add up maximum simultaneous loads to verify capacity. Always use an electrical contractor for all hardwired electrical work.
Verify available space in your switchboard. Main switches are measured in modules (9mm per module). 1P = 2 modules (18mm), 2P = 2-4 modules (18-36mm), 3P = 6 modules (54mm) for Clipsal MAX9, or 3 modules for some Hager models. Ensure adequate clearance around the switch for operation and maintenance.
Ensure the switch complies with IEC 60947-3 and is suitable for AS/NZS 3000:2018 installations. Check that it has a clear ON/OFF indication, can be locked in the OFF position where required, and has an adequate IP rating (minimum IP20, IP40 when enclosed) for the installation environment.
Select reputable brands like Hager or Clipsal for reliability and warranty support. Hager SBR series offers a 2-year warranty and 40,000 mechanical operations. Clipsal MAX9 offers a 7-year warranty and integrates with the MAXBAR busbar system for faster RCBO installations. Consider the ongoing availability of compatible components.
All switchboard work in Australia must be performed by a licensed electrician in compliance with AS/NZS 3000:2018 Wiring Rules. Main switch installation involves working with live mains voltage and requires the electricity distributor to isolate the supply. Incorrect installation can result in electric shock, fire hazard, and may void manufacturer warranties. Always engage qualified electrical contractors for switchboard modifications.
AS/NZS 3000 Clause 2.3.3.1: A main switch shall be installed to enable the disconnection of all active conductors from the source of supply. The switch must be readily accessible and identifiable.
Clause 2.3.3.3:
Domestic electrical installations shall be provided with not more than one main switch for
(a) each separately metered supply; or
(b) where there is more than one separately controlled supply from a meter, a main switch for each of the separately controlled supplies.”
The primary application—installed at the main distribution board to provide complete isolation of the house electrical installation. Essential for safety during maintenance, testing, or emergency disconnection.
These would be Isolation switches, as residential properties can only have one main switch. Required at sub-boards feeding garages, sheds, granny flats, or detached buildings.
Larger properties with three-phase supply (often for electric vehicle charging, pool equipment, or air conditioning) require three-pole main switches rated to handle the total three-phase load capacity.
Solar PV systems require main switches for both AC (inverter output) and generation isolation points. Additional isolation may be required between the inverter and the main switchboard per AS/NZS 5033 standards.
Shops, offices, restaurants, and retail spaces require appropriately rated main switches—typically 100A three-phase—to isolate the entire electrical installation. Must be accessible to authorised personnel and emergency services.
Individual three-phase machines, compressors, or equipment requiring frequent maintenance use dedicated main isolator switches for safe isolation. Prevents accidental re-energisation during servicing.
Multiple isolation points are required for large cooking equipment, exhaust systems, and refrigeration. Main Isolator switches provide local isolation for maintenance without shutting down the entire premises.
Critical infrastructure requires clearly identified main isolation points for emergency power-down procedures. Often involves three-phase supplies with 100 A+ capacity and remote emergency-stop capability.
Clause 2.3.3.3: The main switch shall be installed in a readily accessible position. Clause 2.3.3.5: A main switch shall disconnect all active conductors of the installation from the source of supply. Clause 2.3.3.7: The main switch shall be clearly and permanently identified. For installations where safety services are supplied, special provisions apply—consult the full standard and your licensed electrician.
Main switches start at $8.95 + ex. GST depending on brand, amp rating, and pole configuration. Hager SBR series offers a 2-year warranty, whilst Clipsal MAX9 provides premium quality with a 7-year warranty and system integration benefits.
| Product Code | Description | Poles | Voltage | Trade Price (ex. GST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HAGER SBR180 | 80A Single-Pole Main Switch, Red Toggle | 1P | 240V | $8.95 |
| HAGER SBR280 | 80A Double-Pole Main Switch, Red Toggle | 2P | 240V/415V | $69.95 |
| HAGER SBR380 | 80A Three-Pole Main Switch, Red Toggle | 3P | 415V | $48.50 |
Features: 40,000 mechanical operations, DIN rail mounting, 2-year warranty, red toggle for high visibility, suitable for inductive and resistive loads.
| Product Code | Description | Poles | Voltage | Trade Price (ex. GST) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MX9MS1100 | MAX9 100A Single-Pole Main Switch | 1P | 240V | $9.90 |
| MX9MS2100 | MAX9 100A Double-Pole Main Switch | 2P | 415V | $36.14 |
| MX9MS3100 | MAX9 100A Three-Pole Main Switch | 3P | 415V | $45.65 |
Features: 20,000 mechanical operations, 10,000 electrical endurance, 7-year warranty, MAXBAR busbar compatible, white housing (RAL9003), high-visibility ON/OFF toggle.
| Product Code | Description | Trade Price Range (ex. GST) |
|---|---|---|
| CLIPSAL RMSW180 | 80A Single-Pole Main Switch, Resi Max 4 Series, VisiSafe indication | $11.65 |
| NHP MOD6 Series | 80A & 100A Main Switches, 1P/2P/3P configurations | $15-$55 |
| Schneider Acti9 Series | 80A & 100A Main Switches, modular design | $20-$65 |
Trade Pricing & Bulk Discounts: For commercial projects, new home builds, or bulk orders, contact Sparky Direct for competitive trade pricing. We stock complete ranges from Hager, Clipsal, NHP, and Schneider for immediate dispatch across Australia.
Browse Main Switches → Request Trade Quote →AS/NZS 3000 Clause 2.3.3 requires main switches in all installations. Provides essential isolation capability for maintenance, testing, and emergency disconnection. Protects electricians and occupants during servicing.
High mechanical endurance (20,000-40,000 operations) and robust construction ensure reliable performance throughout the installation's lifetime. Quality switches withstand Australian climate extremes from -25°C to +70°C.
High-visibility toggle (red on Hager, white/grey on Clipsal) provides instant visual confirmation of switch status. Essential for emergency situations where quick identification is critical for safety.
Universal 35mm DIN rail mounting enables quick installation and easy replacement. Modular design enables flexible switchboard configuration and future expansion without requiring a complete board replacement.
Can be locked in the OFF position using padlock or lockout devices to prevent unauthorised re-energisation during maintenance. Essential for worker safety during electrical work on isolated circuits.
1P, 2P, and 3P configurations suit any installation from single lighting circuits to three-phase commercial installations. Flexibility ensures correct isolation for every application whilst maintaining cost efficiency.
Complete Hager & Clipsal range in stock • Competitive trade pricing • Fast Australia-wide delivery
Browse Main Switches → Get Expert Advice →Yes, Sparky Direct ranges list compliance to IEC 60947-3 and are suitable for installations designed to AS/NZS 3000:2018.
Always check the specific model datasheet and your state rules.
Common ratings are 80A for standard residential and 100A for larger residential or commercial loads. The main switch rating must meet or exceed the service capacity.
Yes, they mount on 35 mm DIN rail. Widths vary by poles/brand—commonly 2 modules (≈18 mm each) for 1P/2P and 3–6 modules for 3P.
Check the model dimensions before ordering.
Category-typical values are up to ~20,000 electrical and 20,000–40,000 mechanical operations, depending on brand (e.g., Clipsal MAX9 vs Hager SBR).
Refer to the datasheet for exact cycles.
Yes, marked ON/OFF position indication is standard, and most models accept a lockout device so the handle can be secured in OFF for isolation procedures.
Many ranges interconnect with branded busbars (e.g., MAXBAR for Clipsal MAX9). Check tooth pitch, pole spacing, and manufacturer advisories before mixing systems.
Warranties vary by brand (e.g., ~2 years for some Hager, up to ~7 years for specific Clipsal ranges).
Buying through Sparky Direct provides access to local warranty support and invoicing records
Yes, models marked for isolation per IEC 60947-3 and installed to AS/NZS 3000 can serve as the installation’s main switch.
Ensure the device is clearly identified and readily accessible.
Match or exceed your service capacity. Most homes are fine at 80 A; larger homes or sites with EV charging, big air-con or pools may need 100 A. Ask your licensed electrician to confirm.
A main switch is for isolation (manual on/off). A circuit breaker trips on faults/overload to protect the wiring. Many boards have both: a main switch plus individual breakers/RCBOs.
Sparky Direct offers fast Australia-wide dispatch with standard returns per our policy.
Check the product page for stock status and contact us for trade/bulk orders.
It isolates the three active conductors. Neutral and earth remain connected via bars, which is correct for isolation.
