Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

Over time, the light switch may need to be replaced due to wear, dirt or breakage. It is considered good practice to replace the electrical connection before the sale of real estate, so that all electrical equipment meets modern requirements and standards. In addition, modern switches can have additional functions, such as soft or touch off. Switch replacement skills are easy to acquire, but can save you a lot of money.

Steps

1. 1 Purchase a new switch from your local hardware store.
   • If the lighting is controlled from different locations, you need to purchase a pass-through switch.
   • Before replacing the switch, you can consider additional functions, such as: smooth dimming, motion and presence sensor; different options can provide convenience and comfort.
2. 2 De-energize the switch. You can either turn off a separate circuit breaker in the electrical panel, or you can de-energize the entire house from the main circuit breaker.
3. 3 Make sure the circuit breaker is de-energized. Try turning the light on and off, then check for current with an indicator screwdriver.
4. 4 Remove the switch cover (a screwdriver may be required).
5. 5 Unscrew the retaining screws inside the switch. They are usually found on two opposite sides (left and right, or top and bottom).
6. 6 Pull the switch out of the wall as far as the wires will allow (should be long enough to handle the wires).
7. 7 Mark each wire with a masking tape marked accordingly.
8. 8 Loosen the screws on the terminals with a screwdriver.
9. 9 Pull the wires out with narrow nose pliers. If the wires are long enough, you can simply cut them off at the terminals. If you cut the wires, strip each wire with a stripper. You can find out the length for which you need to strip the insulation on the back of the switch.
   • Make small loops at the end of each wire with narrow nose pliers.
10. 10 Connect the wires to the new switch in the same way as in the old switch. Place the wire loops over the terminals.
    • Make sure the switch is positioned correctly before connecting the wires. At the bottom of the switch you can find the "off" mark.
11. 11 Tighten the terminals.
    • The screws should press the wires against the terminals, make sure they do not push the wires out of the terminals.
12. 12 New switches have a separate green screw that must be grounded. If the old breaker was not grounded (with a bare or green wire), ground the new breaker. If your home is not properly grounded, skip this step.
    • Do not overtighten the terminals, you may break parts inside the switch. If you hear a crackling sound when tightening the screws, discard this switch and get a new one.
13. 13 Install the new switch in the wall, tighten the screws.
    • Make sure the switch is straight up.
14. 14 Place the cover on the switch. If the cover is on a screw, do not tighten it too tightly, as the switch may crack from excessive pressure.
15. 15 Apply electricity to the switch.
16. 16 Check the switch several times.

Tips

• Old houses sometimes lack grounding. Some motion detectors will not function without grounding.
• If the switch does not work, you may have made a mistake with the wiring diagram. In this case, you will have to call an electrician. While waiting for the electrician, keep the switch in the off position and do not touch it.
• Install the switch yourself only if you are absolutely confident in your skills. An incorrect switch setting can be dangerous!
• Remember to apply electricity to the switch after installation.
• Consider installing stepless or motion sensor switches for safety and energy savings.
• If the switch won't fit in the wall, try cutting and reinstalling the wires a little.

Warnings

• Even if you have completely de-energized the room, handle the wires with care. It is better to check the presence of current in the wires twice.

What do you need

• New switch
• Indicator screwdriver
• Flat screwdriver
• Masking tape
• Pen
• crosshead screwdriver
• Narrow nose pliers
• Stripper for stripping