HOW TO REPLACE A LIGHT SWITCH – There are a huge variety of light switches on the market, from single switches, 2 Gang Switches and Dimmer Switches. While each has the primary function of turning your lights on and off they can add real style to a room. This guide below provides you with practical advice on how to replace a light switch.
NOTE: This guide is intended for the UK ONLY. Remember that when you replace a light switch you are working with electricity so please make sure you TURN OFF the power at the mains before you start.
Step 1
Locate your mains electric box and turn off all the power to your house. It’s a good idea to place a Post It note on the front of the mains box to let others know that you are working on the electrics. This will save someone accidentally turning on the power while you work.
Step 2
Take a screwdriver and removed the two front panel screws on the light switch.
Step 3
Gently pull this away from the wall. Remember the wires are connected so do this gently.
Step 4
With some masking tape place small pieces on each wire and mark with a pencil on the masking tape the wire positions.
Step 5
Take a screwdriver and loosen the clamp connectors that hold each wire and remove the wires.
Step 6
Take your new light switch and following the masking tape tags, reconnect each wire to its corresponding connector. Note that the letters printed on the light switch refer to wires that need inserting:
N = Neutral – Brown Wire
L = Live – Blue Wire
E = Earth – this will be either a Green Wire or a Green & Yellow Wire
Step 7
Remove the masking tape once all the wires are connected.
Step 8
Push the light switch panel back into place and screw this into place.
Step 9
Turn the mains power back on and test the light switch. Note if it does not work, then turn off the mains power and check each connection again.
