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Why does my Safety Outlet Switch Seem to Be Working in Reverse?
Sometimes a safety outlet switch may appear to work “backwards” from what you expect. Here’s how to figure out what’s happening and what to do next.
Step 1: Identify Which Switch You Have
Switches come in two types:
- Magnetic Switch (non-contact limit switch comprises a magnet and a cylindrical reed limit switch).
- Corner Switch (corner mount housing containing a mechanical switch that is activated when a door pushes the plunger in).
Step 2: Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting Magnetic (Non-Contact) Switches
If you purchased a non‑contact magnetic switch that is working in reverse, follow these steps to begin troubleshooting:
1. Check the packaging and note the part number. Look at the shipping box for a part number, which should look something like this:
- 0290-6120B67
- 0290-6120B67-NO
- 6120-2002B
- 6120-2002B-NO
2. Identify the switch item number: On the black round cylinder (the reed limit switch), look closely for an item number. It will be one of these two:
- BR-1015A = Magnet Activates Switch (Normally Closed, NC)
- BR-1015 = Magnet Activates Switch (Normally Open, NO)
3. Verify you received the correct item:
- Does your switch item number match what you ordered? For example, if you ordered a Normally Closed (NC) switch but received a Normally Open (NO) switch (see #2 above), that explains why it is operating in reverse. [“Normally Closed” vs “Normally Open”]
4. Corrective action:
If there’s a mismatch between the switch you ordered and the switch you received, contact our team by phone at (866) 806-7228, or email sales@dockingdrawer.com so we can send you a replacement part.
Troubleshooting Corner (Mechanical Contact) Switches
If you purchased a non‑contact corner switch that is working in reverse, the most likely explanation is that the wrong switch was sent. There are no markings on this switch to tell you which type you have, so please contact our team by phone at (866) 806-7228, or email sales@dockingdrawer.com so we can send you a replacement switch.
Why Can’t I Just Flip It?
Switches come in two fixed states: Normally Open (NO) and Normally Closed (NC). Switching between states would require a three-wire design, but Docking Drawer uses a safer two-wire configuration. Because of this, the switch’s state is set at the factory and cannot be changed in the field.
👉TLDR;
If your interlock switch isn’t behaving as expected, simply note the part numbers from both the box and the switch body, then contact our support team so we can send you the appropriate replacement switch.