How To Wire a Light Switch
Wiring a light switch is a fairly easy home improvement project. The key here is to understand the wiring diagram. Why would you want to wire a switch? Most likely, you want to upgrade to a specialty switch such as a:
Or, maybe you just want to change from a toggle switch to a rocker switch.
You will probably only need a screwdriver (have a small flat-head and a Phillips-head). In rare cases, you may need a wire stripper/cutter.
First, cut the power at the circuit breaker box. This is shockingly important! You will be working with a live wire. If you own a circuit tester- use it just in case.
2-Way Switch (Single Pole)
2-way switches are common in rooms with one entrance such as bathrooms and closets.
There are three wires to deal with: Hot wire supplying the electricity (Black) Wire running from the switch to the light fixture (Black) Ground Wire (Bare or Green)
Connect the ground wire to the green screw on the back or side of the switch
Connect each black wire to one of the gold or silver screws. It does not matter which wire connects to which screw.
3-Way Switch
3-way switches are usually in rooms with two entrances and in hallways.
A 3-way switch has four terminals- a "common" terminal (which should be a different color), two "traveler" terminals, and a ground terminal (usually green). Assuming you are replacing an existing switch, note the connection of the wiring prior to removing the old switch. Attach the wires the same way to the new switch. Remember, the common wire gets connected to the terminal that is a different color (and not green). After both new switches are wired, restore power (don't screw them back into the wall yet) and make sure they work. If they do not work, cut the power and reverse the two traveler wires on one switch. That should remedy the problem. Once you have verified that the switches work, cut the power before reattaching them to the wall.
If you are installing new wiring, there are a couple of comprehensive articles that I recommend:
Jon
P.S. If you found this post helpful, give it a Digg. Thanks.
Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.
[...] July 28, 2008 Note: For instructions on how to properly wire a light dimmer, please refer to the article on wiring a light switch. Another easy home improvement project is to swap out a regular light switch for a [...]