![]() ![]() Make an appointment today with the team at Mr. Also, older homes with metal boxes and no grounding system may require a professional. Three-way light switches may prove too complicated for the new DIY homeowner. Replace the switch plate with the original screws. If you have a metal electrical box, wrap exposed wire with electrical tape to prevent it from contacting the box.Įnsuring that you have the switch right-way up, use the new screws that came with your switch to secure it in place in the box. If the electrical box is plastic, you can simply shove the excess wire back into the box. Tighten all with the screwdriver to ensure connection. Then connect the copper or green wire to the green, grounding terminal screw. Likewise, connect the white wire to the neutral terminal (or silver) screw. This ensures the wire connection will be tightened when the screw is turned. Wrap the black or red (live) wire around one of the brass screws, going clockwise. Now, take a look at the picture you took earlier for reference. Unbox your new switch and find where the top is marked on it and note the placement of the screws. Bend the wires into a hook with a pair of pliers. Trim any frayed wire ends and remove the insulation up to half an inch with a wire stripper. The green or copper wire is the grounding wire and attaches to a green screw.ĭetach the wires from the switch with the screwdriver. This one is attached to a silver or light-colored screw. ![]() The white wire is neutral and often carries electricity. These are attached to the switch device with a brass screw. Red and black wires are live or “hot,” and carry electricity. Your switch is wired with three wires: a black or red wire, a white wire, and a green or copper wire. Using a screwdriver with a rubber handle, remove the screws holding the switch in the electrical box. This is because wiring can vary in homes of different ages. Grab your phone and take a picture of how your old switch is wired. Use a multimeter or current tester to make sure every wire in the electrical box. Once the breaker is off, remove the switch plate from the electrical box surrounding the switch. This is a critical step to prevent electrocution. First Stepsįirst, turn off the power at the breaker panel. But safely wiring a light switch of the single pole variety is a simple project if you proceed carefully. Incorrect wiring can cause injury and shock, and sometimes a house fire. The problem with electrical DIY projects is that there usually isn’t any room for error. ![]()
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