How to Fix a Broken Wire in a Light Switch

If you have a broken wire in a light switch, then you will not be able to use it to turn the lights on and off. Fortunately, repairing this problem is a great DIY project that can be completed in less than half an hour. To make things even easier, here is a simple how-to guide that will show just how to repair the broken wiring connection and have the switch working again in no time. Let's get started.

Step 1 - Shut Off Power

Before you begin, make sure the power to the switch you'll be working on is shut off. Do this by switching the breaker for the switch to the "Off" opposition in the service panel. Check the power with a multimeter or test light at the switch location.

Step 2 - Remove Cover Plate

Remove the cover plate on the light switch by loosening and removing the retaining screw.

Step 3 - Remove Switch Assembly

Remove the 2 screws that hold the light switch assembly into the mounting bracket. Then, pull the switch assembly out so that you can access the wiring behind it.

Step 4 - Disconnect Broken Wire

Locate the broken wire and loosen the connection to it on the light switch assembly.

Step 5 - Remove Broken Wire

If the wire is completely broken, simply pull it out. If it is simply frayed or damaged, use a pair of wire cutters to snip it and then remove the shorter piece. Use a pair of strippers to strip the wire shielding about 3/4 of an inch.

Step 6 - Cut and Strip Wire Extension

Take a pair of wire cutters and cut a piece of 12 or 14 gauge electrical wire about 4 to 6 inches long. Then, take the strippers and strip about 3/4 of an inch on both ends.

Step 7 - Install and Connect New Wire

Take the short piece of wiring that you made earlier and connect it to the wire that you stripped and repaired with a wire nut. Then, create a loop in the wire end with a pair of needle nose pliers and attach it to the switch assembly by securing it to the terminal screw.

Step 8 - Re-Install Switch

Line up the switch assembly so that the holes on the mounting bracket are properly aligned. Then, use a screwdriver to insert and tighten down the mounting screws.

Step 9 - Re-Attach Cover Plate

Place the cover plate on the switch assembly so that the hole for the retaining screw is properly aligned. Then, insert the screw and tighten it to secure the cover plate.

Step 10 - Turn On Power

Once you have repaired the broken wire, go back to the main breaker box in your home and switch breaker for the power to the repaired light switch circuit back to the 'on' position. Then, test the switch by flipping the switch up and down to make sure that it turns on and off the light or other device that is connected to the switch.