How to Fix a Dimmer Switch
Dimmer switches are an inexpensive way to change the ambiance of a room. They work by reducing the electrical flow to the light source, thus dimming the light. Dimmer switches have another advantage: they save on energy costs by reducing the wattage of a light bulb. Like all other home devices, a dimmer switch could become faulty either because of a manufacturing defect or worn through use. Remember to turn off the circuit breaker at the service panel before beginning any electrical work. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Duct tape
- Circuit tester
- Screwdriver
- Writing paper
- Pencil (or pen)
- New dimmer switch
Instructions
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1
Cover the turned-off circuit breaker switch in the service panel with a piece of duct tape so no one accidentally turns on the power while you are working.
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2
Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the switch plate. Take off the switch plate after removing the screws to access the wires inside the switch box on the wall.
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3
Pull the dimmer switch carefully and straight out to expose the wires on its underside. Avoid touching the metal parts on the dimmer switch. Don't touch the wires.
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4
Use a circuit tester to double check the dimmer switch, ensuring there is no electricity coming into it. Apply the positive red probe to the positive red wire and the negative or black probe to the negative wire. Note the response on the circuit tester. Do not proceed if there is a response, the wires are still hot with power. If clear, move forward.
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5
Draw a diagram of the wires on paper to help you identify which color wire goes to which terminal on the back of the dimmer switch for replacement.
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6
Loosen the wire terminal screws on the underside of the dimmer switch with a screwdriver.
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Disconnect the wires from their terminals by turning in a counterclockwise direction at the connecting point. Once the wires are disconnected, the dimmer switch will be separated from the wires.
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8
Take the dimmer switch with you to a hardware store and buy a new matching product. The supplying electric capacity and resistance rating of the new dimmer switch must be identical to the old one. This information is printed on the back of your old switch device.
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9
Attach the wires to the new dimmer switch terminal screws per your diagram direction. Wrap the wires around the terminals in a clockwise direction.
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10
Use a screwdriver to turn the terminal screws in a clockwise direction to secure the wires. Ensure the wires stay wrapped around the screws as you tighten the screws down.
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11
Pull lightly at the wires to ensure they are securely connected to the terminal nuts.
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12
Tuck the wires neatly into the switch box on the wall.
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13
Reinstall the dimmer switch plate using the original screws to attach it on the wall.
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14
Discard the duct tape and turn the electricity on at the service panel.
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15
Test the dimmer switch to see if it is working properly.
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