Replace a Light Switch

A 10-minute job that fixes worn, loose, or noisy switches. The wiring is simpler than an outlet — usually just two screws.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 15 min Cost: $3–$25
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Confirm power is OFF at the wiresA switch can feed off a circuit other than the one you expect. Always test with a non-contact voltage tester after flipping the breaker — never trust the breaker label alone.

Tools

Materials

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    Single-pole = one switch controls one fixture. Three-way = two switches control one fixture (has 3 screws + ground). Match what you're replacing.
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Steps

  1. 1

    Cut power and verify

    Flip the breaker, then test the switch terminals with a voltage tester. No light = safe.

  2. 2

    Remove the cover and switch

    Unscrew the wall plate, then the two screws holding the switch to the box. Pull the switch out gently — wires stay attached.

  3. 3

    Photo the wiring

    Take a phone photo showing exactly which wire goes to which screw. This is your reassembly reference. Note: on a 3-way switch, the "common" terminal is usually marked or a different color — it must end up on the new switch's common too.

  4. 4

    Move wires one at a time

    Unscrew the old switch terminals one at a time and move each wire directly to the corresponding new-switch terminal. Curl the wire clockwise around the screw so it tightens, not loosens, as you turn.

  5. 5

    Reinstall

    Push everything back into the box, screw the switch in, attach the cover plate, turn breaker back on, test.

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