What Is a Wall Switch?
In this case, the switch may require a neutral wire connection along with the hot wire connections.
Each wire is important to keep the voltage and electrical flow stable.
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Older switches are mechanical and wear out as the springs lose their resiliency.
Modern switches are quieter and don’t make the old clicking sound.
Finally, some wall switches now use microcircuitry rather than a physical mechanism to control the flow of electricity.
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Choose the switch that fits your needs.
In technical terms, this simple ON/OFF switch is known as asingle-pole, single-throw (SPST) switch.
“Single-pole” means that only one hot wire can be connected to it.
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This switch does not have ON/OFF markings on its lever.
Three-way switches have three screw terminals.
One is called “common” and is connected to a hot wire.
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The other two connect to “traveler” wires that run between the two switches.
This configuration allows either of the wall switches to turn the light fixture ON or OFF at any time.
In between the two three-way switches is one or more four-way switches.
A four-way switch works by toggling the electrical pathway back and forth between the two three-way switches.
Essentially, it serves to open or close an electrical pathway.
Single-pole switches require single-pole dimmers or timers, and three-way switches require three-way dimmers or timers.
It’s important to note there are currently no four-way dimmers or timers available.
Tip
ensure new switches are rated for the circuit’s voltage and amperage.
Check the embossed printing on the switch body to determine the safe level of current it can handle.
Residential wall switches are usually rated for 115/125V and 15 or 20A.
The wires are still carrying power even if the fixture isn’t illuminated.
The current electrical code now requires that all wall switches be attached to the circuit’s grounding wires.
This can be an issue if the old switch had no such connection.
Warning
When working on switch circuit wiring, turn off the circuit breaker to ensure safety.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Light Switch?
They act as the conductors of electric current to and from the switch.
Average Cost to Install a Light Switch.HomeAdvisor.
