How to Rewire a Wall Switch

If you're replacing or adding a light switch to your home's electrical system, choosing the right wall switch can make all the difference in how easily you can control your lighting features.wall switch Consider the functionality you want, compatibility with your existing lights, energy efficiency, and level of automation, before making your choice.

There are three basic kinds of light switches: simple single-pole (ON/OFF) switches, three-way switches, and four-way switches.wall switch All are available in various operating styles, including toggle, rocker, and push-button designs. They can also be equipped with dimmer-style options to allow variable light output.

The first step in rewiring a switch is to turn off the power at the breaker box, either by switching it to the OFF position or by removing the fuse.wall switch It's a good idea to use a circuit tester to confirm that the power is indeed off before you start working with the wires in the electrical box.

Once the power is off, you can unscrew the old switch from its electrical box and remove its cover.wall switch Carefully mark the location of each screw on the backside of the switch where the wiring connections were made to ensure you connect them correctly when reinstalling your new switch. If you're not comfortable working with electricity, this is a project that should be left to a qualified electrician.

When you're ready to connect your new switch, first make sure the power is still off at the breaker box by turning on another light fixture in the room or using your circuit tester to verify that no other live circuits are present. Then carefully remove the terminal screws from each of the switch's circuit wires, and if necessary, test them with your tester to find out if they are still carrying voltage.

If you're able to find out that the switch is bad, a licensed electrician can inspect and replace it. If your circuit breaker trips every time you flip the switch, that's a sign that there is a short circuit somewhere in the established wiring pathway. This is a serious safety issue that should only be fixed by a professional.

When it comes to installing a new switch, you should follow all applicable local electrical codes and hiring a licensed electrician is recommended. However, if you're comfortable with electrical work, the process of connecting and testing a new switch is relatively straightforward. Before you begin, carefully remove the old switch from its electrical box and verify that the power is fully OFF at the breaker by checking it again with your circuit tester.

Connect the black wire from the breaker to one of the switch's terminal screws, and the white wire to the other. If you have a three-way switch configuration, connect the traveler wire to one of the other two terminals on the switch. When the switch lever is flipped to the ON position, the gate snaps closed and allows current to flow through the switch and onward to the light fixture. When the switch lever is flipped to OFF, the gate opens up and interrupts the current.