First of all we should connect the ground wires to the box. (assuming it is a steel box). If the light switch has a ground screw on it (usually green and at the bottom .
Table of contents
- Wiring a light switch? Here's how.
- Want FREE Home Tips & Hacks?
- How to Replace or Install a Light Switch
- How to Wire Three-Way Light Switches
Here we look at how to install or replace light switches. Why might you want to do this?
Wiring a light switch? Here's how.
For starters, light switches wear out because of their frequent use. A light switch that gives off sparks is a fire and shock hazard and should be replaced immediately. Instead, you just replace it. Another reason for replacing a light switch is better functionality. As discussed in the Light Switches Buying Guide , light switches have come a long way in recent years. Today, options include dimmers, motion-sensing switches, timers, central lighting controls—and more. If you want to convert to a dimmer switch, please see How to Install a Dimmer Switch.
Appearance is yet another reason for switching switches. Quite simply, new light switches can add a contemporary look to a room.
Before working on a light switch, shut off the power to the circuit —never work on an energized circuit. For information on how to do this. See How to Turn Off a Circuit. Put a new bulb into the light fixture or plug a working lamp or other appliance into the switch-controlled receptacle to make sure the switch is faulty.
When you replace a switch, make sure you check the amp and voltage ratings on the back of the old switch. The new switch should have the same ratings. Pull the switch outward without touching any bare wires. Use an electrical tester to check the wires that go to the existing switch or the new wires that are intended for the switch so you can be sure they are not active.
Place one probe on the bare ground wire inside the box and touch the other probe on each of the wired screw terminals of the switch or the bare end of the black wire that will carry electricity to the switch. Now remove the old wires. To install the new switch you first need to make sure it is oriented correctly. Check to make sure the word TOP is on top of the switch.
Then reconnect the wires exactly how you disconnected them. This particular light switch has both terminal screw connectors on the side as well as push wire holes in back.
Want FREE Home Tips & Hacks?
It helps to have a pair of needle nose pliers for this step to bend a loop on the end of the wire before placing it around the terminal screw. Simply connect the black wire to the brass screw and the neutral wire to the silver screw. Then connect the ground wire to the green screw on the opposite side of the switch.
Now, carefully push the switch back into the box and secure it with screws. Then replace the switch plate and turn the power back on to test. If you have questions about this or any other home improvement project, be sure to read our list of Frequently Asked Questions for this video.
And be sure to print out our Project Instructions, which includes a Tools and Materials checklist, before visiting your local independent home improvement retailer. I am installing a led fluorescent light into an existing circuit.
How to Replace or Install a Light Switch
I am disconnecting one light and adding the fluorescent light fixture. You are all very well done. According to the rules and standards. Very high quality you have got it. You probably where that work in this direction?
- How to Install a Light Switch | Replacing a Light Switch in Your Home.
- asian dating white man;
- popular dating apps in korea;
- How to: Wire a Light Switch | SmartThings.
I was replacing a ceiling light which has one power feed in and another out with a line to the switch. With all 3 black wires connected and no switch installed should one of the white wires have power? I have two switches controlling different lights. I want to replace both switches but when I wired them thee way they had been, I thought the switches control multiple lights, outlets that they did not control before.
How to Wire Three-Way Light Switches
One was only for a ceiling light the other was for an outdoor light. How will my husband fix it? I nhave house and the bathroom switch control the light in the bedroom next to it and a wall socket across the hall and I turn on the switch in bathroom u can turn on.
I am replacing a dimmer light switch with a non dimmer. Completed fine except learned that this switch needs to separate it control power to lights in another room. As of now I have to turn on light in den switch replaced to get power in kitchen and they obviously need to work separately. Hi I have a new single switch light fitting to replace. Your email address will not be published. You can use a voltage tester near the light switch to check for an electric current.
Remove the screws holding the switch to the electrical box in the wall. Carefully push the switch back into the box and secure it with screws. Good luck with your project and thanks for watching. February 21, at March 12, at September 7, at 5: April 15, at 7: April 16, at 3: