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How to Install a Dimmer Switch
Installing a dimmer switch is a very easy and inexpensive home improvement project. Even a beginner do-it-yourselfer can complete this home maintenance task in 20 to 30 minutes. With the right tools and advice, you can finish this small task and gain big results.
Your local True Value hardware store has the expert advice and products you need to complete this DIY project in no time!
Step 1. Cut the Power
Turn off the power at the circuit breaker. To do this, find the right breaker in the breaker box and flip it to the “off" position. If you have a fuse box, find the right fuse and remove it completely from the panel. Turn the light switch on to double check that the circuit is off.
Safety Alert!
- Whenever you are working with electricity, use extreme caution. Turning power off is the most important step and should never be skipped. Not only does it protect you from injury, but it also protects the dimmer switch from potential damage.
- After turning the breaker off, tape a piece of electrical tape over the breaker to ensure that no one will turn it on while you're working on dimmer installation.
Helpful Tip:
- Consider purchasing an inexpensive voltage tester (also known as a circuit tester) to make sure the circuit is off.
Step 2. Remove the Cover Plate
Unscrew the cover plate with a screwdriver and remove it.
Step 3. Remove the Switch
Remove the old switch by unscrewing the screws on the top and bottom of the switch. Carefully pull the switch out of the box.
Safety Alert!
- If you are changing a very old switch, wires may be loose or brittle. They may even disconnect—another reason to be certain the power is off!
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Step 4. Disconnect the Wires
Disconnect the wires that are connected to the light switch. There should be three wires: one black, one white and a separate ground wire. Use a wire cutter to cut off the bare wire just below the plastic insulation on all three wires. Then use a wire stripper to strip off 3/8" of the insulation. This will give you a clean piece of wire for the connection to the dimmer switch.
Step 5. Connect the New Wires
Take one wire on the dimmer switch and one wire from the wall box and hold them side by side. With needle-nose pliers, twist the exposed part of the wires together. Tighten a wire nut over the wires. Repeat with the other two wires. Bend the wires in a zigzag pattern so that they can easily fold into the workbox. Push the switch back into place. Tighten the two screws that hold it in position using a screwdriver.
Step 6. Install the Dimmer Plate
Install the new dimmer switch plate over the dimmer switch. Once it is set in the box, screw the dimmer plate into place using a screwdriver.
Step 7. Test the Dimmer
Switch the breaker back on or reinstall the fuse. Test the dimmer to make sure your installation was successful. If the dimmer doesn't work, turn off the breaker and double check your wiring connections.
Congratulations! Just by adding a dimmer switch, you can instantly change the mood and environment in any room. Stop by your local True Value hardware store for other home repair and maintenance advice.
For more projects, go to TrueValue.com. >
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