How to replace a light switch

The humble light switch; invented in 1884 and often taken for granted but an essential little gizmo for your home! Here's how you replace an old or damaged one.

Level of difficulty

Level 1: Basic

What you need

  • Screwdriver
  • Circuit tester
  • New switch
  • Screws
  • Light switch cover plate (optional)
     

The steps to follow

1. Make sure the light switch is off.
2. Turn off the mains power.
3. Unscrew and remove the light switch plate cover.
4. Unscrew the fixings that are holding the light switch mounting box on the wall.
5. Remove the light switch mounting box from the wall hole.
6. The light switch should have two electrical wires attached to it; these are the 'on and off' wires. Test these wires with a circuit tester to check if they’re live.
7. Unscrew the fixings that are holding these wires in place.
8. Attach the 'on and off' wires back onto the new light switch by rolling the ends of the wires around the screws.

Note:
Make sure that the new light switch is turned off.

9. Tighten the screws in place.
10. Place the light switch mounting box on the wall and tighten the screws.
11. Replace the light switch cover plate.

Note:
You may want to take this opportunity to replace the old light switch plate with a new one.

12. Restore the mains power and turn the light switch on to check if it’s working properly.

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