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How to Replace a Light Switch in a Ceiling Fan

Contributor
By Michael Straessle
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Ceiling fans are almost a necessity in controlling heating and cooling in a room. The convenience of operating them from the light switch is an added bonus. However, switches used to control the on and off power to the light on a ceiling fan have to be replaced from time to time. A wise homeowner will learn this process to save the expense of hiring an electrician for this project.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Alternate light source
  • Philips head screwdriver
  • Electrical tape
  • Wire nuts
  1. Step 1

    Turn off the light switch that operates the ceiling fan in question. If there is more than one light switch for the same ceiling fan and the ceiling fan is off, pull the chain that operates the fan to see if it will come on. If it does, turn it off at one of the light switches. Provide an alternate source of light while completing this project.

  2. Step 2

    Remove the globe covering the light by loosening the screws that hold it in place and remove the bulb(s). Locate the screws that hold the light kit to the ceiling fan and remove them with a screwdriver.

  3. Step 3

    Disconnect the wires that connect the light kit to the ceiling fan by removing the wire nuts and gently pulling the wires apart. Locate the pull chain light switch in the light kit and disconnect the wires.

  4. Step 4

    Remove the nut that holds the pull chain light switch to the light kit. It is located on the front of the light switch where the pull chain comes through.

  5. Step 5

    Secure the new pull chain light switch to light kit with the nut provided, being sure to thread the pull chain through the nut first. Next, connect the wires that connected the light switch to the light kit.

  6. Step 6

    Connect the light kit wires to the ceiling fan by inserting them into the wire nuts and turning the wire nuts clockwise to secure the connection. Secure the light kit to the ceiling fan with the screws from Step 2.

Tips & Warnings
  • Use new wire nuts if the old ones will not connect the wires securely.
  • Wrap the connections in electrical tape for extra security.
  • Never work with live electricity.
  • Always use appropriate step stools or step ladders for this project.

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