Installing A Dimmer and Illuminated Switch

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Installing A Dimmer Switch

Whether you choose a round dimmer switch or one that looks more like a standard switch with a lever on the side, the installation procedure is the same. Turn off the power to the switch at the service panel. Remove the cover plate and the screws holding the switch to the box. Carefully pull the switch out of the box. Use a neon-bulb voltage tester to verify that no power is reaching the switch. Unscrew the wires from the old switch. Straighten the exposed wire ends and trim if necessary so that no bare wire will stick out of the wire connectors. The wires from the dimmer can attach to either wire in the box. With pliers, twist the ends of the two pairs of wires together. Slip a wire connector over each pair of wires and twist clockwise, making sure that is fits securely. Join the ground wires the same way. Push the dimmer into the box, screw the dimmer to the box, screw on the cover plate and slip the knob into place. Restore power and test.

Installing An Illuminated Switch

An illuminated switch has a light inside the toggle that glows when it is off. That makes it easier to find the switch in the dark. For instance, consider putting one in a bedroom. To install, turn off the power to the switch, remove the cover plate and the screws holding the switch to the box. Carefully pull the switch out of the box. Use a tester to verify that no power is reaching the switch. Lastly, transfer the wiring from the old switch to the new one. Push the switch back in the box, attach the screws, replace the cover plate and restore power.

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