Dimmer switches are a nifty little thing. They can do the same work as your regular old switch, but with an added bonus – being able to regulate the light level so that you can achieve the perfect moody lighting!

Whether you want a bright room while you’re reading a book or a darker room to relax and watch movies in, a dimmer switch is exactly what you need.

Changing out a regular switch for a dimmer is nothing too complicated, but as with all electrical work, it can be dangerous if done improperly. Read on to find out how to safely install a dimmer switch yourself!

Selecting the Right Dimmer Switch

There are more than a few types of dimmer switches on the market nowadays.

Choosing the right dimmer for your needs will depend on several different factors:

  • What kind of fixture do you intend on dimming (incandescent, CFL, LED etc.) and their total wattage?
    Different types of lights need specific dimming switches to be able to work properly. And always make sure to calculate the total power draw of your bulbs so as not to overload the switch.
  • Whether your house has neutral and/or ground wires.
    Older homes might not have neutral or grounding wires, so you should pick the right dimmer that works correctly without those cables.
  • Whether you need to use a single-pole or three-way switch.
    Three-way switches allow lights to be turned on and off from two different locations (like at the top and the bottom of stairs). A three-way dimmer switch can be used like a single-pole one, but the reverse is impossible.

Make sure to explain these specifics at the hardware store, so they can help you pick out the right product for your home.

Tools Needed for the Job

Your new dimmer switch might come with a cover panel, screws, cable connectors and the like, but you will still need to equip yourself with some tools to get the job done safely and efficiently.

You will need:

  • A non-contact voltage tester;
  • Phillips and flathead screwdrivers;
  • A wire stripper;
  • Electrical tape;
  • Needle-nose pliers (optional but helpful);
  • Wire connectors (if not supplied).

Installation Instructions

Now that you’ve prepared yourself properly, it’s time to get to work! The process is fairly straightforward and will probably take around half an hour, give or take.

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#1 Turn Off the Power and Test

The first and most important step is to turn off the power to the switch you will be changing.

Open your service panel and look for any labelling to point you toward the correct circuit breaker. If no labelling is present, you will have to try each breaker to see which one cuts the power to your switch.

Suppose you’re unsure which breaker to turn off, or the box you will be working in contains several different switches connected to more than one breaker. In that case, the safest option is to turn off the main circuit breaker and stop the electrical supply to the whole house.

#2 Remove the Cover Plate

You can begin dismantling the old switch once you’ve turned off the power. Remove the cover plate by unscrewing any screws present. Once the screws are removed, gently take off the plate. Now you will be able to see inside the wall box itself.

#3 Remove the Existing Switch From the Box

Before continuing, use the non-contact voltage tester and place it near the wires connecting to the switch.

Check both hot wires and ensure the voltage tester doesn’t light up. If it does, that means power is still running through the cables, and you must stop the correct breaker.

Now that you’re sure there is no chance of electric shock, you must loosen the screws holding the switch to the box. After you’ve removed them, carefully pull the switch out of the box. Double-check all wires inside the box with the voltage tester.

#4 Disconnect Electrical Wires

Now that the old switch is out, you need to disconnect all the cables connected to it. Label the cables and/or take a photo with your phone, so you will know what goes where when it’s time to reconnect them.

The wire arrangement inside the box and attached to the switch will depend on your house’s electrical setup. There might only be two black or red cables running into the switch (hot wires), but there can also be a white wire (neutral) and a green or bare copper one (ground).

#5 Connect and Insert the New Dimmer Switch

First, ensure your new dimmer switch fits into the wall box. It shouldn’t fit too tightly, as that could cause overheating issues, which can lead to melting plastic, short circuits, and even a house fire. If needed, adjust the wall or box so everything fits properly.

Reconnect all the wires to their respective terminals using the labels and/or photos you’ve taken beforehand. Ensure all cables are fitted securely to the terminals so they don’t slip out. Having needle-nose pliers will prove helpful in removing and attaching the wires.

If your dimmer comes with attached stranded wires, you will need to use wire connectors to join them to those in the box. Use wire strippers to remove some of the cable insulation if needed. Wrap any exposed copper wire in electrical tape.

Once everything is properly connected, it’s time to place the new switch into the wall box carefully. Insert it slowly, making sure to fold back the cables so they fit snugly into the box. Screw the switch into the box, return the cover panel, and screw it in.

#6 Turn the Power Back On and Test

Now that the dimmer switch is in place, it’s time for the moment of truth! Turn the power back on and test your new switch. If the light turns on and is able to be dimmed, then congratulations on your handiwork!

Call an Electrician for Help

If you’re worried that you won’t be able to handle the job, or if you’ve already tried and it just doesn’t work, no matter how much you try, then it’s time to seek the aid of a professional electrician.

An electrician will easily be able to change your switch, and you won’t have to worry about anything going awry, as they will take care of everything safely and effectively. It’s up to you to decide whether your DIY skills are up to snuff, but calling a certified electrical technician is always a safe bet.

Conclusion

Being able to control the brightness of your lights almost as easily as you control the brightness of your phone screen is very handy!

If you want to dim the lights to watch a movie in a pleasant atmosphere or set them to the perfect level for your eye comfort, a dimmer switch is what you need.

Changing out your regular switch for a dimmer is nothing complicated, but as with anything electrical, knowing how to do it properly is crucial for your safety. And now that you’ve read our article, you are more than prepared to take on the task!