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If you want to remove and replace a light switch, you don’t need to call in a professional. We’ll show you how to do it safely.
Instructions: Removing the cover from the light switch
Before you start work, you should remove the relevant fuse. If the light no longer comes on after removing the fuse, there is no longer any electricity flowing that could be dangerous to you. If there is a socket under the light switch, you can use a voltage tester to check whether electricity is still flowing.
- First, remove the cover from the light switch. To do this, use a small flathead screwdriver and carefully pry off the cover. Behind the cover are two screws, which you should loosen.
- If there is also a socket on the light switch, you must also loosen the screw in the middle of the socket to remove the cover completely.
- You can then put the new cover on and replace all the screws in their original positions.
Completely removing and replacing the light switch
If you want to remove not only the visible cover but also all the electronics behind the light switch, you will need to take a few more steps:
- The light switch is part of a box. The box is usually secured with four screws, which you can easily remove.
- Remove the loose box a little and check the voltage again, if you haven’t already done so.
- Tip: Take a photo of the wiring in the box so that you don’t mix up the wires when installing the new light switch.
- Loosen the wires using the existing levers or screws. The new light switch is now ready for installation.
- The black cable, the phase, goes into the connection marked “L.”
- The earth (PE) and neutral (N) wires are also reconnected. If the light switch is not labeled accordingly, refer to the old wiring.
- If the contact of a cable is too short, you can remove a little more of the insulation. However, be careful not to shorten the cable in the process.
- Finally, reinsert the box into the wall, tighten all screws, and replace the cover.
