How to Install a Lutron Maestro Dimmer Switch

The Maestro allows lights to be easily brightened and dimmed.

The Maestro electronic dimmer switch, manufactured by Lutron, allows home lights to be brightened or dimmed as needed. The Maestro enables users to fine tune the amount of light in a room and to quickly change the dim settings. The device also features a 60-second dimming delay. This permits a user to turn off the light in a room, while still being able to see for one minute while exiting. Additional Maestro controls can also be added, providing dimming control from up to 10 different control locations.

Things You'll Need

• Maestro dimmer
• Flathead screwdriver
• Pen and paper
• Electrical wire connectors

Instructions

1. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the area of the house where the Maestro switch will be installed. Move the circuit breaker switch to the "Off" position. Verify that the power is shut down by testing lights and outlets in that area before proceeding.

2. Use a screwdriver to remove the wall plate covering the existing light switch. Set the plate and the screws aside. Remove the screws holding the light switch assembly to the wall. Pull the switch away from the wall, but do not yet remove the wires.

3. Examine the wires connected to the existing switch and determine the circuit type. A single-location switch will have two wires connected to a corresponding screw, in addition to a green ground wire. A three-location switch will have three wires connected to screws, plus a ground wire.

4. Note the arrangement of the wires on the existing switch. Use tape to number the wires, and create a simple diagram as a reminder of where each wire is connected. This is particularly important on three-location switches.

5. Disconnect the wires from the existing switch. Loosen the connecting screws as needed. Keep the electrical wires separated and numbered for easy identification.

6. Begin connecting the electrical wires to the new Maestro dimmer switch. Use standard electrical screw terminals to connect the wire leads of the Maestro to the wall wires. Connect the green ground wire of the Maestro to the ground wire from the wall, and the remaining wires to the corresponding screw terminals of the Maestro.

7. Verify that the Maestro is connected in the same way as the previous switch. Check the diagram and numbered wires to be sure that the connection is the same as before.

8. Push the Maestro dimmer module and its corresponding wires into the switch box. Place the dimmer control on top of the module, and align the screw holes. Tighten the mounting screws into place, keeping both the module and dimmer control flush against the wall.

9. Toggle the circuit breaker power back to the "On" position. Verify that the new Maestro dimmer works properly by tapping the top of the control button. The lights will brighten steadily. Press the bottom of the button to dim the lights.

References

• Lutron: Maestro Dimmer Overview
• Lutron: Maestro Installation Guide