Fixing A Wall Switch

When a switch fails in your home, there is usually one reason for it, and that’s because the contact points are worn out or have oxidized. When this happens, the switch must be replaced. There are three options for replacing it that you have: buy the same one or a dimmer switch or a silent switch.

Most of the switches that you need to deal with in your home are either single pole or three way. Single pole switches control the light from one area and the three way switch can turn the same light on or off from different locations. One of the first things that you’ll need to do when it’s time to replace the unit is to decide what kind of switch you’d like to put in the old one’s place.

When you’re buying a replacement you need to make sure that you read all the information stamped on the back of the new switch—the new one should have the same amp and voltage ratings as the old. As well, you need to shut off all the power to the circuit breakers before you start the work. Use a circuit tester to check to make sure that the circuit you’re working on is dead before you touch any wires.

For most of these repairs and replacements, you can use a simple utility knife to strip insulation off the ends of the wire that you’re working with to replace the switch. Use the knife blade to cut the insulation through all the way around and then pull the excess off the end. Remember to use some caution here. If you’re not very experienced using the knife in this situation, you could wind up cutting through the actual wire several times and making it shorter to the point where it could become unusable.

If you need to make a lot of electrical repairs, it’s suggested that you buy a wire stripper. This is an inexpensive tool that adjusts to different wire sizes. If you want to invest a few more dollars, you can invest in a electrician’s multipurpose tool that performs other functions as well. Either one of these tools easily removes the insulation without nicking the wire at all.

To replace the switch after the power has been shut off you need to remove the cover plate and unscrew and pull out the switch. Label the wire that goes to the common switch with tape to avoid confusion. Take the new switch and attach the common wire to the proper terminal. Connect each of the remaining wires to each of the remaining screws and then put the whole unit back and fasten it in place. Remember to ensure that everything is tightened up before you turn the power back on.

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