Electrician Orange County

How To

Dimmer Light Installation

Installing a dimmer switch can be a simple process, however when handling electricity the first requirement is safety. Electrician Orange County offers a step by step account of how a new dimmer light switch is installed.

First

When you start a new project safety is always the first requirement. When installing a dimmer switch begin by shutting the power off at the main circuit breaker or fuse box. Place a peace of tape over the circuit breaker switch to mark that switch as the breaker or fuse that you are using, it is also used a safety measure to prevent someone from turning the switch on.

Second

To make sure that it is safe to proceed you will than double check the light switch to make sure the power is off. Later, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the old light switch faceplate in place. After the faceplate is removed test the light switch to see if the volt meter picks up any trace of electricity. Next remove the screws that hold the light box in the wall. Pull the light box out a couple inches to give yourself leeway to make the change. Remove the wires from the back of the old switch with needle nose pliers.

Third

Most new dimmer light switches only have two black wires. It does not matter witch black wires are connected to the dimmer switch wires. After connecting these wires place a wire nut on the ends of the still exposed wire to prevent the wires from tripping or shorting out. For additional protection place a peace of electrical tape surrounding the wire nut. The dimmer switch will have a green wire called a ground wire. Connect the white ground wire coming from the wall to the green wire located on the dimmer switch. Place a wire nut and tape on these also. At last push the installed dimmer switch into the electrical wall box, re-screw the faceplate into the wall and turn the power back on at the main circuit breaker or fuse box.