Things You'll Need
Non-contact voltage detector
Screwdriver
Wire strippers
Pliers
Wire nuts
The 15- amp 120-volt Cooper Light Switch 1301-7W is the standard style of switch used in modern construction. Wiring is done in the same method as any other switch. A switch provides a mechanical method for opening and closing a circuit. They are typically connected using 14/3 gauge electrical wire. This provides three connections to complete the circuit. The black wire delivers the electricity from the panel, the white wire provides the path back, and the green or bare wire is the backup safety system.
Step 1
Turn off the power to the wires you are working on at the distribution panel. Double check that the power is off by touching a non-contact voltage detector to the wire's insulation.
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Step 2
Strip 3/8 inches of insulation from the three wires coming from the distribution panel and the three wires going to the light.
Step 3
Loosen the two terminals on the Cooper light switch with a screwdriver. Wrap the black wire from the distribution panel around the bottom right terminal and tighten it down. Wrap the black wire from the light around the top right terminal and tighten it down.
Step 4
Loosen the grounding screw in the back of the electrical box with the screwdriver. Wrap both green or bare wires around this screw and tighten it down.
Step 5
Twist the two white wires together with pliers and install a wire nut on top.