Replace Standard Light Switch With Dimmer

What you re unlikely to need however is a dimmer switch in a closet hallway bathroom or staircase where a standard on off light switch is a more helpful and potentially safer option.

Replace standard light switch with dimmer.

Check the rating of the dimmer switch you purchase. Basic electricians pouch hand tools a non aluminum ladder and voltage tester. Here s how to replace a regular light switch with a dimmer switch. If the light can be switched on and off from two or more switches buy a three way dimmer switch.

Most dimmer switches can handle 600 watts of power. If you want better control over how bright or dim your lights get installing a dimmer switch is a great way to make that happen especially if you want to adjust them regularly. If you re replacing a standard toggle switch that controls a light from a single location you ll need a single pole dimmer. There are also three way dimmers that work with regular three way switches to provide dimmer control at one of the two switch locations the regular switch just turns the light on an off.

Select a type of light switch that is compatible with the circuit where it will be installed. For example if a light is controlled by one switch you ll need to replace it with a single pole switch. Replacing a standard single pole or three way switch with a dimmer switch is no different than replacing a standard switch. Dimmer switches don t work on most fluorescent fixtures and low voltage lighting requires special low voltage dimmers.

How to change a dimmer switch to a normal switch. If the switch you re replacing is the only switch controlling the light buy a standard single pole dimmer. A light switch opens or closes an electrical current to turn on a light fixture ceiling fan or similar electrical device. Here s how to replace a regular light switch with a dimmer switch.

Be aware that all dimmer switches have larger bodies than. How to replace a dimmer switch with a light switch. Instead of merely turning lights on or off get a wide range of light by installing a dimmer switch most dimmers are designed to fit a standard wall box opening which makes it easy to replace the switch for any incandescent or halogen light with a dimmer. This electrical wiring project is best performed by a licensed electrical contractor.