Replace Light Switch

• Always make sure the power is SHUT OFF by turning off the breaker in the circuit breaker box or by removing a fuse in a fusebox. Note: fuseboxes are not as common as circuit breaker boxes.
• Test the switch. Make sure the light switch does not activate a lamp or other electrical device.

Supplies for Electrical Home Improvement to Replace Light Switch

Home Improvement Instructions to Replace Light Switch

1. First off, I am assuming that you really do have an existing light switch in a wall and you need to replace light switch. Note: there are Single Pole Switches and there are 3 way switches

You need to determine which kind you are replacing. A single pole switch has only 2 wires going to it (excluding any ground wire. A 3 way switch has 3 wires going to it.

Pay attention to each screw and remember what color wire goes to each.


2. If this is the case, then begin by removing the plastic switch plate to replace switch. This is accomplished by removing two screws located in the switch plate.


3. Next locate the two screws holding the switch into the box. One is located at the top and one is located at the bottom. Unscrew both and lay to the side.


4. Now your switch should be free and will pull out away from the wall about 4" or so.


5. Note the color of the wire going to the connection screws.


6. Check to make sure electricity is off.


7. Loosen the screw holding each wire. Unhook each wire. Try leaving the loop at the end of the wire as is. This will make it easier to replace switch.


8. If you have a green or bare copper wire attached to the outlet, this is the ground wire and it too needs to be removed.


9. If the wires are not anchored on to each screw on the side of the outlet, then they are pushed into the back of the switch and not hooked to a screw on either side of the switch, then you will need a small screwdriver to push into the tiny slot on the back of the switch near the hole where each wire is located. Push the screwdriver into the slot and the wire will easily pull out. Repeat the process for the other wire and unhook the ground wire.


10. You should now have the old switch free in your hand.


11. It's time to install the new one.


12. Examine the new switch. You will want to install a matching switch. In otherwords, correct style, color and shape. Also it is common to place the ON position upwards.
    A 3 way switch doesn't matter which is towards the top.


13. Re-attach the ground wire to the ground terminal screw. Make sure each wire is firmly held in place.


14. Gently push the switch back into the wall being careful not to break a wire by bending it too sharply.


15. Insert the bottom screw of the new light switch into the bottom hole in the box.


16. Insert the top screw into the hole at the top. Tighten both screws until the switch is held firmly against the wall.


17. Re-install the switch plate cover.

Replace light switch job done.