How to Correctly and Easily Install a Dimmer Switch

You too can wire you own dimmer if you read this article...

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver set
• voltage tester
• wire nuts/elect.tape

1. 

   First count the number of lightbulbs this switch will control, add the wattage of each one. Write this number down and buy a dimmer rated over this wattage to prevent heating and burnout.

2. 

   Lets pull our switch cover and pull out the switch that you are changing and determin the hot wire on the existing swich , with switch in off position use voltage tester and determine which one has 120v and this will be hot side. Mark this wire and turn power off at panel.

3. 

   Now disconnect existing switch and connect hot wire to wire that reads line(if not marked it will be in directions included with switch). Now connect bare ground with green wire and last wires go together.

4. 

   Tape wire nuts and reinstall switch and cover. Insure your cover is right for whatever style switch you buy...

Tips & Warnings

• If you have a 3way(2 or more switches controlling lights) be sure and get 3way dimmers. If more than 2 controls you will have to get 4ways for all the extras. This is more complicated and you will probably want to call an electrician or contact me and I'll try and walk you through it.
• BE SURE AND GET THE RIGHT WATTAGE RATING ON YOUR SWITCH!!!

Resources

• www.parkercontractors.com

[JackLTrades]

on 1/14/2009 Great article. I am glad they have finally started to come out with a dimmable flouresent.

[Chrisparker]

on 12/3/2008 Check the wattage rating on switch and then count wattage of both lamps. May just be a bad switch because most switches are at least 600watts, 2 lamps inside are surely not 300 watts apiece. If your using 100w lamps try 60 and see if it makes a difference and if you still have enough light...chris

[Chrisparker]

on 12/3/2008 Check the wattage rating on switch and then count wattage of both lamps. May just be a bad switch because most switches are at least 600watts, 2 lamps inside are surely not 300 watts apiece. If your using 100w lamps try 60 and see if it makes a difference and if you still have enough light...chris

[maryellen1001]

on 12/1/2008 Great step by step instructions! I need to put a dimmer in my hallway, with these instructions I can get my husband to do it!

[Chrisparker]

on 12/1/2008 Check the wattage rating on switch and then count wattage of both lamps. May just be a bad switch because most switches are at least 600watts, 2 lamps inside are surely not 300 watts apiece. If your using 100w lamps try 60 and see if it makes a difference and if you still have enough light...chris