Upgrades are always a welcome change for homeowners. No matter if you are looking for a minor change or a major one, getting an upgrade can truly make the ordinary into something extraordinary. Not only do the upgrades better improve your daily life, but they generally increase the resale value. Many homeowners find dimmer switches a great commodity, where you can select ambient lighting or flood the room with light. Today, we at Simon Electric would like to share with people with an electrical background how to convert your standard switch into a dimmer switch.
How Do You Change a Normal Light Switch to a Dimmer Switch?
1) Cutting off the power is your first order of business for your safety. Turn the power off at the circuit or fuse breaker box. Use a voltage tester and test the light switch to confirm the power is out.
2) Collect a flathead and a Phillip screwdriver. The flathead will remove the light switch cover plate and the Philips screwdriver removes the switch box.
3) Detach the wiring with your screwdriver and gently fold the wires out the side of the switch. It is essential you remember the hookup. If you need to take some notes, draw a diagram and / or take a picture with your cell phone so you know where all the wiring goes. You need to separate the wires and keep them separated by gently pulling the wires in each of the corners. Needle nose pliers help you get access in tight, small, and confined areas if you need them.
4) Black and white are standard wires of three. The third is either a bare copper wire or it is covered with a black sheath. Refer to your notes or photo to properly identify the right colored wires to the appropriate connection and attach the wires to the dimmer as the previous light switch was connected. If the wire is copper, in order to attach make a loop in the end of the wire with the pliers and guide it around the screw on. Once the wire is fastened securely beneath the screw and is not splaying to the perimeter of the screw, tighten it down.
5) Carefully fold any excess wire after you are sure the wires are tightly secured and compress the dimmer into the electrical box. As you do all of the work to convert your standard switch into a dimmer switch, use caution and care to ensure you do not damage or loosen any wires. Once completed, replace the switch plate and tighten the screws to secure the switch to the box. Reestablish the power at the circuit breaker.
Note: When it comes to dimmer lights, you need to make sure that the light bulb is dimmer light capable. If you do not use a dimmer lightbulb, you can damage the electronics and the bulb. Check the label to ensure the bulb is compatible with your dimmer light fixture.
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The dimmer switch conversion shouldn’t be done by someone without any electrical knowledge. If you do not have any experience working with electricity, it is better to play it safe and call Simon Electric and let our electricians complete your dimmer switch conversion.
