How To Change A Light Switch | Beginners Guide

I will cover the complete process of changing out or wiring a 2-way light switch. I will also show an example of a 3-way light switch just in case that is the type you need to replace. This video is made with the beginner in mind and as such, I cover all aspects of the project to ensure you only need to take 1 trip to the home improvement store

Chapters
0:00 Project Introduction
1:23 Testing To Confirm No Power
2:20 Removing The Faceplate
3:09 Removing Light Switch From Electrical Box
4:11 Difference Between 2-way and 3-way Light Switch
6:50 Selecting the Correct Faceplate and Light Switch
9:47 Install New 2-way Light Switch
12:44 Finishing Job and Installing Faceplate
13:53 Final Project Notes

Tools and Parts Used

Tools Every Weekend Warrior Needs

DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.

[carlarose]

Somehow I made it to 65 without ever changing a light switch. Thanks to you, I will never again have to hire anyone for this simple task. your video was clear and concise, thank you!

[DBR]

Word of advice my friends. I had a similar wall setup with actually 3 switches. We needed to change the switches out as well. We shut the power off and checked the first switch and confirmed there was no power. However, the second and third still had power and we got zapped. The second and third were on different breakers. So if you have a something like what’s showing here, make sure ALL switches have no power going into them before touching wires with your bare hands.

[saillikeagirl]

I absolutely love how clear you are verbally and visually. Thank you so much!!!

[ashbbey]

I just replaced my light switch following your step by step instructions. No prior experience. Invest in a voltage tester period. Thanks for posting.

[mosesmom]

Hey I just successfully replaced my first switch and had every confidence after watching your video and looking at the diagram on the box. I am having to learn these basic skills as my husband has memory impairment and can no longer do home repairs. I just saved a bunch of money. Thank you very much.

[hotdogbowl]

Thank you for all of your videos! First-time homeowner, bought an old house that needed a lot of work, and so many of your videos have helped me tremendously.

[JW]

Thank you so much for posting this. My Electrician Husband passed away and I don't feel comfortable hiring an outside contractor, so your instructions made me feel comfortable enough to do this myself. I so appreciate this that I will follow your channel now.

[GTVAlfaMan]

Thank you. You are the first person to show me how to easily make a J-hook using the wire strippers.

[soflybrtt]

Came across your video for help with replacing two broken light switches. You were so clear and informative - I was able to do this safely with so much ease! Thank you so much!!

[johnepley]

I just recently found your channel. Already I’ve learned so much from you, things I really wanted to know. I love to do my own home repairs but have always been reluctant to tackle electrical projects. Your videos have given me the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make the basic repairs and upkeep in my 30 year old house! Thanks!

[CharlieLemmink]

Thank you! The first electrical work I've ever done, and I didn't die (or even get shocked!). I figured it would be a simple job, but your explanation touched on everything I needed, making it even easier than I expected. The rare job that only required one trip to the hardware store. Much appreciated.

[Aurleis]

This is another great video Scott, thank you. One thing that I do with a switch install, when I'm trying to determine which might be the traveler and load vs line (if all black) is disconnect the power, remove switching receptacle and wires, put the Wago 221 (2 conductor) on each of the black conductors. Next, I will flip the power back on at the breaker and test them. The ones that don't show up as the hot line, I remove the Wago (that way when I'm going between receptacle and breaker no one will come along and touch a hot and I know that the one that still has the Wago on will be on the hot).

[nemera]

OH wow. I needed to change the switch in the bathroom. Saw that speed wiring and freaked. You really helped me understand. I just replaced the switch following your instructions. I'm constantly amazed that people do these videos to share. Now I'm ready if if I need to do this again. 😗

[e-Factorgame]

Thank you for this great video. It helped me change a switch and only make one trip to the store. I used to have my dad do these repairs but he is gone now so you were a big help.
One thing I would add for people to know. When testing the switch box or plug outlets the electrician at the store said one prong of the outlet is hot and one is neutral. So when you test you might get a green light on the tester when the box is still hot. Sorry if I'm not using the right technical terms but bottom line is test both prongs of you outlets before doing amything.

My light is now fixed and I am grateful for your video. Thanks again.

[totallyfrozen]

I find this channel very helpful. Things I THOUGHT I knew how to do, I find myself learning new things or learning how to do them better. Great content! 👍🏻

[ratlips]

At 72, and a home DYI guy, I can't believe how much I have learned in this video. Where were you 30 years ago?

[wadeh]

Yes! Thank you! This is a great break down. After watching I was able to easily remove a second switch for a light accessory on a fan that I wasn't using. Most videos like this leave you completely guessing if your doing it right or possibly going to electrocute yourself. The details here are clear and concise. Thank you for doing it right. One more Subscriber.

[GraemePayneMarine]

Excellent presentation. I appreciate your emphasis on safety as well. Over the years - in several homes in several states - I have encountered a few abominations in hosehold wiring, some i was able to fix but many I had to call in professionals. I had a long career in repairing & calibrating elecrical-electronic test & measurement equipent, but I still know when something is outside my level of competence.

[idkmybe]

Your video and clear instructions gave me the confidence to do this on my own. Just replaced a bunch of light switches today. Thank you!!

[michellealdorasi]

This was a fantastic video! I managed to safely repair a broken switch in my dining room. I just subscribed; thank you for providing such great tutorials :)