Dear Mr. Electrician: How do I wire a light switch?
NOTE: Some text links below go to applicable products on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Using my links helps to keep this website FREE.
Answer: Since I am not sure if you want to wire in a replacement light switch or install new wiring for a new light switch location, I will answer both.
HOW TO REPLACE AN EXISTING LIGHT SWITCH
Replacing an existing light switch with a similar model can be easy. It is usually just two wires on a single pole switch that you remove and put on the new switch. A screwdriver and needle-nose pliers is typically needed for this.
In addition, a grounding wire is needed for the new switch and sometimes with older homes, the grounding wire isn’t there. The grounding wire always goes on the green screw.
For existing switches that have the wires inserted into the back and held in by a spring clamp, an additional tool such as a paper clip, very small nail, or a tiny screwdriver is needed to insert into the release hole next to the wire. It is best to avoid cutting the wire because that is all you have to work with.
Do not use the rear back stab holes on any new switches. It is best to tighten the wires on the new switch terminal screws with a hook on the wire. The screws are required to be torqued to the specifications set by the factory. A torque screwdriver is best for this. The torque specifications are mentioned in the switch instructions or by a label on the switch.
Click to see my wiring diagrams for single pole light switches.
Click for my wiring diagrams and for troubleshooting three-way switches.
Click for four-way switch wiring diagrams.
To help keep this website FREE, please use this Amazon link for all of your purchases.
Click for a FREE copy of my book “Almost Everything You Need To Know To Repair a Bathroom Exhaust Fan In Your Home.”
Get your required “Emergency Disconnect, Service Disconnect” labels and stickers to satisfy the 2023 National Electrical Code requirements in article 230.85(E)(1) and (2) by going to my Zazzle Shop here.
Visit my Link Tree for social, stickers, and merchandise links.
