Dimmer Switch Wiring

If you are planning to install a dimmer switch in your home, you should have a good understanding of dimmer switch wiring. Any job that deals with electricity should be tackled with caution. Though working with electricity is a common day to day job, you must take the necessary precautions so that you do not get hurt. With this set of instructions and the appropriate tools you will be able to do the wiring for the dimmer switch. A dimmer switch is a good addition to a room and can quickly change the atmosphere of the room to suit your mood.

Step 1 – Turn the Power Off

Start by turning the power supply off at the mail panel. Now unscrew the screws and remove the plate that houses the switch.

Step 2 – Remove the Switch

Unscrew the crews and remove the switch from the box. Now you need to disconnect the wires that are connected to the switch.

Step 3 – Strip the Wire

Use the wire cutter to cut off the already exposed part of the wire. Use the wire stripper to strip about 3/8 of an inch from the end of the wire.

Step 4 – Connect the Wires

Connect the first black on the dimmer switch to the black wire in the switch box. Twist the two together and encase it in the wire nut, make sure that it is completely encased. Connect the second black wire on the dimmer switch to the other black wire in the switch box. Follow the same method you used to connect the first black wire. Make sure these two wires are also capped properly in the wire nut. Now connect the ground wire to the ground terminal on the dimmer switch. The white wires are the neutral wires, join them together and cap them with a wire nut.

Step 5 – Replace the Switch

Push the wires back into the switch box; you can bend them in a zigzag pattern and push them into the box. Now push the dimmer switch back into the box making sure it is straight. Place the screws in the holes and fix the dimmer switch back into the switch box. Make sure you have fixed the dimmer switch back into the box before turning on the power supply.

Step 6 – Testing the Switch

Turn on the power supply from the main electrical panel in your home. Check the dimmer switch to see if it is working fine. Your dimmer switch should work well. If it does not work, turn off the power supply at the main electrical panel and open the switch plate to remove the dimmer switch. Re-check all the wire connections and replace the switch. Sometimes while pushing the switch into the box some wires may come loose. Make sure all the wires are connected properly. Turn on the power supply and check your dimmer switch.