How to Replace a Fan Light Switch
Should your ceiling fan light switch become loose in the wall or spark when you turn it on, it may be time to replace it. Switches, like all other mechanical devices, can quit functioning properly over time. When the switch stops providing power to the light, it can become an inconvenience. When the switch sparks when you turn it on, then it becomes a hazard. Replacing a fan switch is something you can accomplish on your own without having to call in a professional electrician. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Electrical tape
- Phillips or flat head screwdriver
- Electrical tester
- Replacement single pole light switch
Instructions
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1
Verify which switch in the wall operates your fan light prior to disconnecting the power. Place a small piece of electrical tape on the toggle to identify it.
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2
Disconnect the electrical power to the ceiling fan by turning off the breaker at the main electrical panel.
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3
Remove the switch plate cover to test for electrical power. Use an electrical tester and test one prong to the screw on the right side of the switch and the other prong to the metal on the electrical box or to the metal on the switch. Referred to your tester's instruction manual for verification that the power has been disconnected. If your tester is equipped with lights, they should not light up if the power has been disconnected.
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4
Remove the fan light switch. Remove the two screws that hold the switch into the electrical box and gently pull the switch from the box.
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5
Disconnect the fan light switch. Loosen the two screws on the right side of the switch and the green ground screw located at the bottom of the switch. Remove the wires from beneath the screws and discard the old switch.
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6
Install the new fan light switch. Locate the wires you removed from the right side of the old switch and connect them to the two screws on the right side of the new switch. Place the bare copper wire onto the green ground screw of the new switch. Tighten all three screws.
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7
Install the new light switch into the electrical box. Gently push the switch back into the electrical box and attach it to the box with the two screws provided with the switch.
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8
Replace the switch plate cover onto the wall. Turn the electrical power back on at the main breaker panel.
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Tips & Warnings
Test to make sure the electricity is off to the area you are working in to avoid electrical shock.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Ceiling Fan image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com
