How to Change a Light Switch Beginners Guide - DIY Install or Replace a Light Switch for Beginners

How to Change a Light Switch Beginners Guide - DIY Install or Replace a Light Switch for Beginners

Product Links:
GE Toggle Light Switch: https://amzn.to/4eJLnLb
Non-Contact Voltage Detector: https://amzn.to/47LxOZp

Chapters:
00:00 - How to Change a Light Switch
00:37 - Line vs Load Wires
01:27 - How to Wire Light Switch
03:11 - Alternate Wiring Method

There are many reasons why a light switch might need to be replaced. And in this short video I'll show you how to change a single pole light switch. This is a switch that controls one fixture from one location. The first thing to do is to shut off the power to the room and remove the cover. Here on the inside loosen the 2 screws holding the light switch to the wall. And using a voltage detector, I'll verify there is no electricity at this junction box.

Now I'll grab an insulated screwdriver and I'll start loosening the bottom terminal. And the way I like to replace switches is to do one wire at a time. Here's what I mean. So once the line wire is detached I'll immediately connect it to the new light switch. For me, it's a more methodical way that helps me keep track of the wires. Once that's done, I can detach the load wire from the old switch. And this connects to the top terminal on the new switch. The last wire is the ground wire. It typically does not have any insulation on it. And it's almost always connected to a green screw. And just like before, just tighten this down with a screwdriver.

These replacement switches can vary in price but the one I'm using today was under a dollar from Lowes. Now carefully stuff the wires into the junction box and tighten the screws. At this point, just reattach the cover. I know the thought of changing a light switch can seem intimidating but I hope I've shown you that it's actually quite simple to do even if you've never done it before. And you're gonna save a lot of money doing it yourself. Now I can turn the power back on and test this out.

Again, it's pretty simple to do and it might take you about half an hour or less to do this. If this video was helpful please give me a thumbs up and hit the subscribe button to stay up to date on all my DIY videos!


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