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| Installing the Switch |
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When working with electricity always:
- Turn off the power.
- Test the wires to ensure the power is off.
- Lock the panel box, so no one can accidentally turn the power back on while you are working.
- Check with local authorities to see if a permit is required.
- Have your work checked by an inspector.
- Wear eye goggles and a dust mask.
- To avoid overloading the circuit, consult a licensed electrician.
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Even though they look alike, fan controls and dimmer switches have different functions. Always use the proper
switch for your application. Check the packaging to see whether the switch is for a light or a fan motor.
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These simple step by step instructions should work for either dimmer switches or fan controls. Check the instructions
included with your particular switch to be sure.
- Dimmer switches are rated by wattage. Choose a dimmer switch rated to handle at least the total combined wattage of
the lightbulbs it will control.
- Fan controls are rated by amperage (Amps). Choose a fan control rated to handle at least the total combined Amps of
the fans it will control.
- Turn off the power to the switch at your home's service panel. Lock out the circuit breaker or the service panel so no one
can turn the power back on while you're working.
- Remove the switch faceplate and the screws securing the switch in the wall box.
- Carefully pull the switch out of the workbox and test the wires to be sure the power is off.
Remove the two black wires and the ground wire from the switch. Inspect the exposed, copper ends of the black wires
for serviceability. If the wires are in good condition, you can use them as they are to connect to the dimmer switch. If
the wires are worn or have carbon deposits, clip them back to the black coating and strip 1/2" of the coating to expose
fresh copper wire.
- Use a wire nut to connect the ground pigtail (usually green) on the switch to the ground wire (usually bare copper) in the
workbox. Use wire nuts to connect the black pigtails from the switch to the black wires in the workbox.
- Push the wiring to the back of the box and secure the switch to the workbox. Install the faceplate, turn the power back
on and test the switch.
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These How-To's are provided as a service from Lowe's, the Original Home Improvement Warehouse of How-To information for the World Wide Web. The information in Lowe's "How-To" clinics is intended to simplify jobs around the house. Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Please read our terms of use.
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