Switches, MCB and DB — price, types and what to check
Modular switches, sockets and circuit protection.
Switches and sockets are on every wall; MCBs and RCCBs in the distribution board are what keep people and appliances safe.
The basics
- 6A/10A modules for lights; 16A/20A for AC, geyser and kitchen appliances.
- MCBs protect circuits from overload; an RCCB protects people from shock.
- Plates come in polycarbonate, glass and metal finishes.
Switches, MCB and DB types and price ranges in India
| Type | Specification | Best used for | Indicative price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modular switch 6A/10A | 1 module | Lights and fans | ₹30–250 |
| 16A/20A switch and socket | 2 module | AC, geyser, microwave | ₹120–600 |
| Cover plate | 2M–18M | Finish | ₹60–1,500 |
| Fan regulator | Step / touch | Fan speed | ₹250–1,500 |
| MCB | 6–63 A, C-curve | Circuit protection | ₹150–700 |
| RCCB 30 mA | 25–63 A | Shock protection | ₹1,500–4,500 |
| Distribution board | 8–24 way | Main panel | ₹1,200–6,000 |
| Smart touch panel | Wi-Fi / Zigbee | Home automation | ₹2,000–12,000 |
Quality checks before you accept delivery
- Switches should click crisply; sockets need safety shutters.
- Choose polycarbonate plates over ABS — they resist fire.
- Match MCB to wire: 2.5 sq mm → 16–20 A, 4 → 25 A, 6 → 32 A.
- Sockets should grip a plug firmly — loose sockets spark.
- MCBs should be ISI marked with breaking capacity (6 kA or 10 kA) printed.
- Switch action should feel the same across every module in the lot.
Pro tips
- Install a 30 mA RCCB on socket and bathroom circuits.
- Add a surge protection device in the DB in lightning-prone areas.
- Common heights: switches 1,200 mm, bedroom sockets 300 mm, kitchen sockets 1,100 mm.
- Smart switches need a neutral at the switchboard — plan it now even if you add them later.
- Use two-way switches for stairs and at bedroom doors and bedsides.
- Plan USB sockets near beds and study desks.
- Mount the DB at an accessible height, away from water.
- Leave spare ways in the DB for future circuits.
Mistakes to avoid
- Too few sockets, leading to extension boards everywhere.
- Switchboards hidden behind the door swing.
- Skipping the RCCB to save money.
- Switchboards inside the shower zone.
- Plugging heaters and ACs into light-circuit sockets.
Where you can save
- Premium plates in living areas, mid-range elsewhere.
- Stick to one series so modules match across rooms.
How much you need
Roughly 1 switchboard per 60–80 sq ft of carpet area.
Brands to know
Legrand, Schneider, Anchor, GM, Havells, Crabtree, Hager, Wipro
Related materials
Wires and cablesHidden in walls for decades — never compromise here.Lights and fansLED lighting, BLDC fans and exhausts.Air conditioning and ventilationSplit, ducted and VRF systems, copper piping, ventilation.Security, automation and fire safetyCCTV, video door phones, sensors, detectors, EV charging.Home liftsTraction, hydraulic, screw and vacuum lifts for homes.