Replacing a defective light switch is a simple task, but safety guidelines must be followed to prevent risk of shock. The very first thing you should do when you replace a light switch is to turn off power to the light switch at the main panel. Once you've done this, you can proceed to remove the light switch. Now that the power is turned off to the light switch you can remove the light switch cover. There are usually two small screws that hold the single light switch cover on. Remove the screws and set them and the cover aside. Now you should have two screws holding the light switch in place. It is very important at this stage to not touch any bare wiring until you have tested to make sure no power is reaching the light switch. Once you have tested for no power, you can remove the two screws holding the light switch in place and remove the light switch from the box. There will be a few wires attached directly to the switch itself. Remember how they are wired. Remove the screws that attach them and set the old light switch aside. Grab the new light switch. Connect the wires to the new light switch. Make sure the connections are tight and carefully tuck the wiring back into the light switch box. Reattach the switch with the two screws you set aside earlier. Now replace the light cover with the other two screws. Turn back on the power to the circuit and test the light switch to make sure it works properly. Now that you've learned how to replace a light switch, you can try out some more of our easy DIY home repairs.
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