How to Fix a Light Switch

When you turn on the light switch and nothing happens or the light flickers and pops, your first reaction may be to replace the light bulb. Sometimes, however, the bulb is not the culprit. You may have to fix or replace the light switch.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Replacement light switch
• Screwdriver
• Voltage tester
• Small notepad
• Pencil

1. Purchase the type of light switch you need. You may need a single pole switch, a three-way switch or a four way model, depending on how many lighting locations the switch is responsible for directing.

2. Turn off the power to the light switch at your main electrical panel. Many homes have these in basements, bedroom closets or garages.

3. Remove the light switch's cover plate with a screwdriver. Set the screws aside.

4. Use a voltage tester to test the light switch for electricity. It should indicate that the electricity for the light switch is off. If it does not, go back and make sure you have tuned off the braker to that area. Test again.

5. Unscrew the screws that are hold the light switch into the wall box. Set the screws aside.

6. Remove the wires. Write down the wire sequence order as you remove each one.

7. Install the replacement switch. Insert the wires into the new switch, following the same placement and sequence order you noted when you removed them. Connect the ground wire, if there is one, to the green terminal.

8. Place the wires back into the wall box, and then place the switch into the wall box. Mount the switch. Screw any mounting screws you previously set aside.

9. Turn the power back on using the main electrical panel box.

10. Use the voltage tester to verify the light switch is getting power.

11. Test the light switch by turning it on and off.

12. Replace the light switch's cover and screw it back in.