How to Change a Lamp Switch

Swapping out a lamp switch is fairly simple.

Lamps are an attractive alternative to ceiling fixtures or track lighting. They require little maintenance beyond dusting and changing a bulb a couple of times a year, and changing bulbs on a lamp is much simpler than changing a bulb on other light sources. If something does go wrong with a lamp it is probably the switch. If you are careful and methodical, even the task of changing a switch is fairly simple.

Things You'll Need

• A new switch

Instructions

1. Unplug the lamp. This is an essential step for working on any electrical device. It also would be a good idea to remove the bulb and the shade while you are changing the switch. Put the bulb and shade in a safe place until the switch has been replaced.

2. Look at the switch before you disconnect any wires. For example, if there are three wires going to the switch and the middle wire is red, you will want to remember this so you can connect the new switch the same way. If there are only two wires it doesn't make any difference, but if there are more than two wires you should write the information down.

3. Disconnect the switch and take it to the lighting or hardware store. Talk to a knowledgeable person and make sure that the switch you are buying is the same as the old one. It is not enough that it be electrically equivalent, it must also have have the same mounting characteristics as the old switch. You must be able to physically put it into the same space it came out of. Ask for advice on installation.

4. Install the new switch, making sure that the wires are connected securely and that no bare wire touches anything. Reattach the shade and bulb and plug the lamp in. Keep your hand on the plug and take it out immediately if there are sparks or smoke.

5. Unplug the lamp if it is operating incorrectly in any way--this includes flickering, heating up, or not lighting at all. Recheck your connections, including the information you wrote down. If all else fails, take the switch back to the store and get another one. Faulty switches do get manufactured.

Tips & Warnings

• If your switch was attached with wire nuts, buy new ones when you buy the switch. They only cost a few cents and if the switch is too old the wire nuts probably are too old as well.

• If the wires are not securely connected to the switch or if there is any exposed wire, there will possibly be a dangerous situation in your future. Cover exposed wire with electrician's tape and keep an eye on the lamp during its first few hours of operation.

References

• ReadersDigest: Lamp Repair
• HomeRepair: Switch Replacement
• Inventors: Electrical Lamps

Resources

• AllExperts: Floor Lamp Switch Repair