How to Install Electrical Dimmer Switches
Electrical dimmer switches can be added to most any lighting circuit. The switch must be rated for the lighting load and be capable of controlling that particular lighting fixture. Dimmer switches are typically rated by wattage. In other words, a dimmer switch may be rated for 600 watts. This means the switch would be able to control up to six 100-watt incandescent light bulbs. Check the lighting fixtures and bulb manufacturers for installing dimmer switches on different types of lights. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Slotted screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Dimmer switch
- Dimmer switch cover plate
Instructions
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1
Remove all electrical power from the lighting circuit by switching off the circuit breaker or pulling the fuse to that circuit. Remove the old switch-cover plate using a screwdriver. Pull the switch from the electrical box by removing the upper and lower mounting screws. Keep these screws handy in case you lose the screws to the new dimmer switch.
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2
Remove the two electrical wires from the old switch. Inspect the bare copper wire for any surface nicks or breaks. Some switches may have a third green wire connected to the switch's metal frame. This wire is for the earth safety ground on the electrical system. Remove this wire as well.
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3
Connect the two power wires from the old switch to the two screws on the new dimmer switch. Unless noted on the dimmer switch itself, it does not matter which wire you connect to which terminal. Other dimmer switches will be clearly marked with the words "line" and "load" on the rear of the device.
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4
Connect the power wire coming from the main electrical panel to the terminal identified as "line." Attach the wire going to the light fixture to the terminal marked as "load." The green wire used as the earth safety ground must be connected to the green screw on the metal frame of the dimmer switch. Use needle-nose pliers to fashion the wires to fit under the screws. Tighten the terminals with the screwdriver.
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5
Secure the switch into the electrical box using the supplied mounting screws. Attach the cover plate over the dimmer switch. Re-energize the circuit. Test the dimmer switch.
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Tips & Warnings
Follow all local electrical regulations whenever installing electrical devices. Use only approved switches for the loads the switches are controlling. Not all compact fluorescents will operate properly on dimmer switches. Ceiling fans must utilize a specially made dimmer switch for correct motor operation.
