How to Replace a Light Switch

You can replace a nonfunctional light switch in a few minutes.
But as with any electrical repairs, be sure to make safety your
first concern.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Masking Tape
• Masking Tape
• Marking Pens
• Circuit Tester
• Screwdriver Sets
• Switches

1. Turn off the power to the switch at the main circuit breaker or fuse box. Test by flipping the switch on to make sure the power is off. Tag the circuit box 'Man at Work' or something similar so no one mistakenly turns the power back on while you're working.

2. With a screwdriver, remove the two screws holding the cover plate and take the plate off. (The cover plate is the piece of metal or plastic covering the switch.)

3. Remove the two mounting screws holding the switch in place inside the electrical box.

4. Pull the switch out of the wall. The switch should come out a few inches, exposing the wires.

5. Remove the screws holding the two wires coming out of the wall to the switch, making sure to tag which wire came from which screw (they are usually color coded) with colored pens and tape.

6. Take the switch to the hardware store and get another one exactly like it. Ask a salesperson for help if necessary.

7. Take the new switch home and hold it up to the wall, right side up, so that the word 'off' appears when the switch is in the off position.

8. Attach the wires to the screws on the switch's back according to the tags you made earlier.

9. Secure the new switch in the box with mounting screws.

10. Replace the switch cover.

11. Turn the main power back on and test your work.

Tips & Warnings

• Marking which wire came from which screw prevents wiring mixups in case you are unknowingly working with a three-way switch - a single light controlled from two locations.
• You can purchase an inexpensive circuit tester at your local hardware store.
• Working with electrical systems is potentially dangerous. If you're unsure of your abilities or of any aspect of the project, call an electrician (see "eHow to Hire an Electrician').
• Whenever you turn the circuit breaker off or on, use only one hand and look away from the breaker to reduce the risk of injury should the breaker blow.

[zarpie]

on 4/26/2009 Thank you for this, I did it myself in just 10 minutes. Very helpful article.

[akendall]

on 1/22/2009 If you buy switches or plugs in boxes of 10 they might be cheaper. Then you will always have them handy when you need one. I keep them in a tool box marked, "Electric" and put tools for electricity in the tool box. I always change plugs or switches during the brightest part of the day to ensure that I have plenty of light to do the job without having to use flashlights.

[Duckwax]

on 1/15/2009 This was well explained, I really liked the fact you pointed the reader to trained support if needed, and then told them how to TAG OUT THE BREAKER!. Thats one of the simplest life saving tips there is around electricty. VERY good advice, thank you for including it. Safety ia always first when we work on any potential hazard. I would have added to wear safety glasses when closing breakers, but you covered that alittle bit. Well done, good article.