1. Check your voltage tester before you check the switch circuit.
2. Turn off each breaker in turn in order to find the one that controls the switch you are changing.
3. A helper can tell you when power is off to the switch.
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Project Steps:
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Materials you will need:
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#1. Plan your project
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- Decide on style of switch
- Options: same style switch, dimmer switch, touch control switch
- If home has aluminum wiring, replace with appropriate switch
- Match Amp rating of switch
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- New switch†15 or 20 amps
- Dimmer switch
- Touch control switch
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#2 Turn off power
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- Turn off controlling circuit breaker
- Test switch
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- Electrical tester
- Sign to mark breaker 'Do not touch'
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#3 Remove switch
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- Once power is off, remove cover plate
- Remove screws holding switch to electrical box
- Slowly pull switch straight out from box
- Test switch again holding tester to screw on each side of switch
- Loosen screws with wires attached
- Remove wires from screws or if spring activated, release spring holding wires
- Check to see that all wires are in good condition
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- Screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Linesman pliers
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#4 Install new switch
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- Make a loop on end of one wire with needle nose pliers and connect to screw
- Repeat with other wire
- For dimmer switch, twist switch wire and electrical box wire together with a wire nut
- Turn on power and test
- Screw switch to electrical box
- Replace cover plate
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- Wire nuts
- Wire stripper
- Electrical tape
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