With time, the light switches inside your home wear out. To replace the broken or old switch with a newer one, you can either hire an electrician or handle the task on your own. You can certainly save yourself some money by accomplishing the task without the expertise of an electrician. Here are the tips to replace a light switch easily and effectively.

First of all, assess the condition of all the switches inside your home. Note down the number of switches and the power ratings of the switches that need to be replaced.

Home Electricity

There are three types of switches namely the single pole types, the three-way types and the four-way switches. Different types of switches are used for different conditions. A single pole switch is used to operate the lighting fixtures located in a single room. A three way switch can operate lighting fixtures in two different locations whereas a four-way switch is used to control the lighting fixtures of three or more locations at a time.

If you want to turn on and off the lighting fixtures in room then a single switch is enough. Similarly, install a three-way switch or a four way switch which allows you to turn on and off the lighting in three or more different locations. Before replacing the switch, you need to know the type of switch you require. If you do not have any idea about the type of switch you have installed then you can take it with you to the shop and ask the salesman for an appropriate replacement. Make sure that you cover the openings made on the switch panel due to removal of the switch with a tape.

You need a voltage tester, a screwdriver and a notepad to note down the colors and locations of the original wires before commencing the task.

With the help of a voltage tester, check whether the switch is working up to the mark or not. Use a screwdriver to unwire the switch from the board. At this time, note down the sequence and color of the wires in your notepad.

Test the switch using the voltage tester for the accuracy of the switch. With the help of electricity tester, test the supply of electricity. Now, unscrew the light switch from the wall box slowly. Unwire it and note down the sequence of the order of wires.

Keep your mind calm and active all the time during work. Do not try to replace the switch without switching off the main current supply as it can cause serious troubles.

Scott Rodgers is an expert with vast experience all over the country. His remarkable experting of contents has immensely helped a lot many electricians from Denver Electricians to Dublin Electricians . You are welcome to reprint this article – but get your own unique content version here.