How to Properly Change Out a Light Switch

If you change out the plate covers on your light switches to something nicer or more updated and the existing switch that rests inside of it is dingy, dirty, or stained, do not let the idea of changing the switch out intimidate you. I cannot tell you the amount of times I have seen a small issue such as this one plaguing someone simply because they did not want to mess around with anything involving electricity. The job itself is very easy to do, and the cost of doing it is minimal at best. The end result, however, is more than worth the small amount of time and money put into the project. You would think that a minor issue such as a switch on the wall would go unnoticed. Not so. A dirty, old, or outdated switch is just one of those minuscule things in a room that has a way of throwing off the whole look. I am not sure why this is so, I just know that it is. The following instructions will guide you through the process and hopefully leave you feeling at ease.

First you need to gather your supplies. You will need the following:

The switch. Decide what type of switch you are going to purchase. You can purchase one that is exactly like the one you are replacing, in the same or a different color, or you can update to a different type of switch, such as a dimmer, a push switch, or a toggle switch. You can also choose a switch that does something unique that you like, such as illuminating in the dark to make it easy to find.

Screwdriver

That’s it. Two items. The mounting hardware will come along with your new switch.

The very first thing you want to do is turn off the power that goes to the light switch. This is done at your fuse box or circuit breaker panel. Do not proceed unless you are certain that the power going to the area you are working on is completely off.

Now take your screwdriver and take off the existing cover plate. Now you want to unscrew the switch itself from the unit. Once that is done, gently pull it from the wall. Disconnect the wiring screws by gently loosening them with the screw driver and then separating them. Make sure that you remember the exact way the wiring is connected. You can write it down if you don’t think your memory will serve you well, or you just want to be sure.

Reconnect the wires to your new switch in the same manner they were installed with the old one. Tighten the screws and then gently put the wiring and switch back into the wall. Put your cover plate back on, or a new one, if you have decided to replace that as well.

Go back to the fuse box or circuit breaker panel and restore the power. Go test your light.

And that is it. It is as simple as it gets, and as you can see, the job poses no reason at all to be intimidating. You have now fixed a small issue that reaps big results. A new switch just gives a room that clean and finished look.