How to Install a Dimmer Switch on a Fan
Dimmer switches are an alternative choice for controlling ceiling fans. Rather than a simple choice of on or off or a selected number of speeds, a dimmer switch can cover all speeds from the highest to lowest possible on your particular fan. There is no flip of a switch. The on, off and speed options are adjusted with a glider. Fan controls are also based on amps, while light switches are based on watts. All of these differences make following instructions specific to the installation of a fan control extremely important. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Dimmer switch specifically for fan control
- 12/2 or 14/2 home wire
- Wire connectors
- Wire strippers
- Wire cutters
- Circuit tester
- Screwdriver
- Electrical tester
Instructions
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1
Purchase a dimmer switch that is meant to handle at least the amps of the fan that it is to control. They are usually in the range of 2.5 to 6 amps.
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2
Turn off all power that is connected to the switch before beginning installation. Do this from the service panel (circuit breaker).
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3
Remove the switch plate from the wall and remove the screws from the actual switch using the screwdriver.
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4
Pull the switch outward from the wall and use the electrical tester to check that the power is definitely off.
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5
Disconnect the two black wires and the ground wire from the switch. The ground wire will be copper and will not have any rubber or plastic coating. Make sure the exposed copper of the wires on the wall appears to be in good condition. If the copper is worn, use the wire cutters to trim off the exposed copper portion. Then, use the wire strippers to remove the wire coating from a small part of the wire. Remove approximately 1/2 inch of the coating.
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6
Use a wire connector to connect the green ground wire on the new dimmer switch to the bare copper wire on the wall.
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Use the remaining two wire connectors to connect the black wires on the switch to the black wires on the wall.
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8
Push the wires gently back into the wall enough to attach the new switch to the wall.
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9
Attach the new dimmer switch to the wall using the screws and screwdriver. Then reattach the switch plate also using the screwdriver and remaining screws.
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10
Turn the power back on and test the switch by moving the dimmer switch.
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Tips & Warnings
To make sure that nobody accidentally turns the power on while you are working, lock the service panel/circuit breaker box.
Electricity is dangerous. If unsure of how to complete any steps, contact a professional, licensed electrician.
References
- Photo Credit ceiling fan image by Adrian Hillman from Fotolia.com
