How to Change a Dimmer to a Light Switch

This will give you the instructions needed to replace a dimmer switch with a regular light switch.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• flat-head screwdriver
• electricians tape (optional)

1. Shut-off the power to the switch. If you are not sure which breaker controls the switch, turn-on the light and then shut-off one breaker at a time, checking after each one, until the light goes out. Then, take a piece of electrician' s tape and place over the turned-off breaker.

2. Pull the dimmer knob off by applying steady pressure and pulling towards you.

3. 

   Using your screw driver, remove the screws to the switch faceplate.

4. Using your screwdriver, remove the two screws which are holding the switch to the outlet box.

5. 

   Gently pull the switch towards you, until you can access the wires on the switch.
   Next, get the new light switch and loosen the screws at the terminals (where the wires go).

6. Using your screwdriver, loosen the screw on the terminal holding the wire. Then remove the wire and place it in the exact position on the new switch (either in the hole or wrapped around the screw). Tighten the screw on the new switch.

7. Repeat with the remaining wires, doing them one at a time.
   The grounding wire is the bare, copper colored wire and that attaches to the larger screw at the upper or lower corner of the switch. Make sure all screws are tightened.

8. Very gently push the switch and wires back into the outlet box.
   Then reverse the removal process.

9. Turn-on the power.

Tips & Warnings

• Matching the wiring layout of the existing dimmer switch to the new switch is the easiest way to go. If you have any problems or questions, please let me know.
• Always use caution when working with electricity. Make sure power is out when working on the circuit.