How To Change A Light Switch | Beginners Guide

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Klein Tools Voltage Tester (NCVT-3P): geni.us/h9Hl Eaton Decora Light Switch (10 Pack): geni.us/n59m 2-Gang Decora Faceplate: geni.us/ZLVKY Wire Strippers: geni.us/MdOB #1 Milwaukee ECX Screwdriver: geni.us/fuSEW Klein Tools NCVT-3P: geni.us/h9Hl Klein Outlet Tester: geni.us/kdBAJ Tools Every Weekend Warrior Needs Makita Cordless Drill Combo Kit: geni.us/t7dIA Dewalt Drill Bit Set: geni.us/oFlSl Dewalt Screwdriver Bit Set: geni.us/VDcr Craftsman Screwdriver Set: geni.us/jXqFI Eklind Allen Wrench Set: geni.us/7XfvO Pliers (4-Piece Set): geni.us/RIdx Milwaukee Fastback Utility Knife: geni.us/MlyiLk Stanley Tape Measure: geni.us/bUfD1R Studbuddy Stud Finder: geni.us/RySCuVw Johnson Torpedo Level: geni.us/wiLcDY Stanley Hammer: geni.us/bPDk8Wo Buck Bros Wood Chisel Set: geni.us/vk3cpTW Klein Voltage Tester: geni.us/h9Hl Klein Outlet Tester: geni.us/kdBAJ Milwaukee Wire Strippers: geni.us/5zuLAbC Little Giant Ladder: geni.us/fmlmTk 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.

[@cowgirl2]

I'm 76 & a widow. I never before attempted to mess with electric. Your video is very precise and made it easy to understand. Thank you so much!

[@AngeloR674]

Youre very lazy! And incompetent!!

[@carlarose45]

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!

[@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.

[@LatinBostonH8ter79]

Same. How did I make into my mid-40’s and not know how to DIY my own switches and outlets?

[@ratlips4363]

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?

[@JW3213]

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.

[@RockinwitRoxy]

I’m sorry for your loss

[@gabrielguevara7895]

1) I stayed because of your eyes. I'm secure enough in my maculinity to say that. 2) I appreciate the up close view and percise explanation. I didn't die, so instructions were good. Thanks!

[@Dietahumanaadecuada]

😅 He does have beautiful eyes.

[@anthonylopez9900]

Simple enough. I purchased a voltage tester and wire cutters with the money I saved, not having to pay a professional. Thanks for the step-by-step!

[@GTVAlfaMan]

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

[@glenb4887]

Absolutely! I’m 69 and I have wrestled with the things for years!

[@nemera34]

exactly. I never knew how easy it was to do.

[@rebeccawebb5891]

Me too! I had no idea. I've always used needle nose pliers.

[@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.

[@DBR00]

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.

[@1953beckley]

I love your videos, but I also have a problem with my smart switches, to explain in details my hallway has three lights connect to my three way . Do I purchase a 4 way light switch with 2 black connector and 2 brace connector. My smart light wifi switches only have a hot connection and 4 out connection. I don't see a load connection. Just a hot and 4 out and a ground.

[@windsorpatb]

even with power off confirmed, I still avoid touching bare wire when possible.:-)

[@nelsonparra3797]

Good point. I just replaced a quad receptacle in my kitchen. Each side (duplex) in the box was fed from a separate breaker, so I had to shut off two breakers to change the one Quad.

[@leonelsway]

@@1953beckley I don't understand what you are trying to do. If the lights are on the same circuit, wire them in series. You only the one wire from the switch. Down side is if one light burns out the downstream lights will turn off. You could wire them in parallel using one wire coming from your light switch, this is preferred as any light on the same circuit not working will not affect the ones downstream. This applies to a regular old school switch as well as a smart Wi-Fi connected light switch. I'm not sure why you need 4 wires of load coming from the switch.

[@markymark5352]

Good. You got what you deserved.

[@saillikeagirl]

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

[@LatinBostonH8ter79]

Clear and direct instructions make all the difference

[@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.

[@ajays5]

You are a great instructor. Thank you so much for making that video.

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Thanks!

[@Darkflowerneko]

I'm a first time home owner and knew that if I didn't do it myself then I really couldn't consider myself one. Your tutorial was very informative and thorough and I was able to do it all by myself as a 34 year old woman! Thank you so much! ❤

[@jonathanablythe]

Thanks!

[@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).

[@jergervasi3331]

Great video. Watching you strip the wires taught me to cut, then use the tip to pull off the insulation, AND how to use the holes to make a J-hook. Can't believe I never knew that. Thanks!

[@nemera34]

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. 😗

[@1575murray]

I purchased a #1 Robertson screwdriver in Canada and use it all the time when changing out switches and receptacles. It is much less likely to slip and ruin the screw head than a slotted or phillips head screwdriver.

[@so0flybr1tt]

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!!

[@chrishebert5672]

New subscriber. Good videos. I'm no electrician, but I was taught to never touch the conductive part of the screwdriver when working with electrical (as you did when you removed the switches) at 4:00. I know, you had checked and the power was off. However, it's kind of like treating every gun as if it's loaded. You don't take any chances. Many years ago (1978), I was removing the cover plate of an outlet and the screwdriver slipped and went right into the outlet. There was a large "pop", the lights in the building briefly dimmed, and the end of the screwdriver melted. Fortunately, I was only touching the rubber part of the screwdriver. My coworker came over and asked if I was okay, which I was. If I had been touching the shaft of the screwdriver then who knows what would have happened. Today, I triple check that power is off and I still never touch the shaft of the screwdriver.

[@beninaskaria]

Typicality you want to use screwdrivers that have insulation on the shaft which prevent this sort of thing, but electrical theory states that electricity always takes the path of least resistance. Assuming your skin has a much higher resistance than your metal screwdriver I doubt you would have been harmed. If your hands are wet on the other hand, all bets are off.

[@RCRoads]

Back in 1978 the circuit breakers were not what they are today. You could arc weld on a 20amp circuit by grounding out the phase conductor. Breakers never seemed to trip out.

[@idkmybe123]

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!!

[@johnepley1945]

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!

[@sunnysolheim2628]

I just found your channel, first I had to admire your green eyes, then back up the video, and try to concrete on the project. I think I’m feeling confident to change my light switch. My switch has 4 dimmer switches. A bit scary, so I think I’ll turn off the main breaker. Thank you for your step by step video.

[@breathnstop]

I'm glad you brought up the paint issue and using razor blade. It will make tears in your walls paint.

[@jeffs6809]

Wow. There are plenty of DIY channels on KZbin, but yours is the best I’ve seen so far. I’m not a beginner, but certainly no pro when it comes to performing simple electrical projects around the house. But I watch to pick up tips I may not know…. For example: I have the exact same wire stripping tool, but never used the hole to prep my wire for screwing into the switch. Now I don’t have to carry needle nose pliers anymore! Thanks for the tip! I clicked on your channel because I have two black wires leading into my switch, and I’ve always seen one black and one white. Now all I have to do is test for the hot wire and hook them up. Thanks again - - very well done!

[@AlongtheRiverLife]

I always write the breaker number on the inside of the face plates for each switch. Then no guess work there after.

[@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! 👍🏻

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

Exactly.

[@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.

[@r3mnyc]

Thank you. Followed easily and changed my first switch. The only think I could have used more help with is buying a wire stripper. There must have been at least twenty version at my local hardware. And the prices ranged all over the place. The most basic model did just fine. Best.

[@LTian-so4td]

Best complete explanation on every single detail I need to know!! Thx

[@spencerrs-e2g]

Really well done video. In a future video you should discuss the wire strippers you use and why, and how to properly use them. I have always struggled pulling the wire casing off with the “cutter portion” of the tool, not as you did with the end of the tool. So I learned something here! Thank you for that! Teach it in your next electrical video…..

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

Me too: I'd never seen that cut and pull trick.. And using the holes to bend the wires was nifty too.

[@kimmccoy9870]

Can I just use regular pliers?? I don’t know how often I’ll do this job and not sure I really want to buy an extra tool to sit around

[@spencerrs-e2g]

@@kimmccoy9870 Hi Kim, no, you can't use regular pilers for stripping wires. Just asking this question suggests that maybe you should not do this job, but if you do, please be sure the breaker is OFF to the circuit you are working on. Cheers

[@hoozthair6076]

I know generally the push in connectors are thought to be inferior. I have a house that's 43 years old and I've replaced almost all of the outlets and switches in the house. They used the push in connectors on every one and I never found one that was loose, in fact I would have to break the plastic to get it out. However, I did find at least one screw that the wire was nearly off and two others that were loose. Also as far as colors, what you are calling an almond in the past used to be called ivory which I believe was the same as one of your almond. Also there is a dark brown color. I wired an addition on this house and finished the upstairs on a previous house and I always used 12 gauge wire. After I make the hook for the screw terminal I take a pair of needle-nose pliers to squeeze them together so they actually make a loop around the screw. Interesting as always.

[@ericstoverink6579]

The problem with them is that the connection only makes contact with the wire across a tiny area when compared to the screw terminals. While it could be a strong physical connection it makes for a weak electrical connection.

[@hoozthair6076]

@@ericstoverink6579 this is very interesting but I would have to say that a loose screw doesn't really make a good electrical connection either. I don't remember that I've ever had trouble with either one but I just thought the push in connector was more secure. Are these no longer put on any outlets? Thank you for the information.

[@mathmusicmom]

My mathematical self loved that you line up the screws to all be vertical at the end.😍😍

[@allisonwert6905]

Just changed my switch! Didn’t even have to call my Dad 😭 thanks for the video, it was very easy to understand.

[@monroe2245]

Just thought I'd throw something else out there when buying switches - face plates can also change the appearance of your project. Doing my own, I found out plates (for switches and receptacles) come in either nylon or plastic. Nylon is bit more $$ but it's got a more glossy finished look over plastic. Also it's more pliable, so if you've got uneven walls or a multi switch plate that's not laying flat nylon is the better bet.

[@0552steve]

I was going to skip this because it's for 'beginners', and I'm not. But watch anyways. I did already know about 98% of what you described. but THAT 2%! Thanks. Liked and subscribed.

[@teresasomers248]

Excellent video, outstanding instruction, easy to understand, clear and concise step by step. Keep the help coming!! Just another DIYer, who just subscribed to your site. Thank you.

[@alfieavalon]

I appreciate the tips keeping me from electrocuting myself. Very simple instructions and glad I ran into your instructions. Thanks!

[@imalt8271]

Good lesson and a well spoken presenter.

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Thanks!

[@michaeljohnson9551]

Get a Non-Contact Voltage Detector like this video says! Especially if there is more than one switch in the box. The one I just replaced was in a double. The breaker panel was poorly labeled. By trial and error we got the good switch power to turn off, as evidenced by the light bulb going off. At that point I would have assumed that the power to both switches were off, however the Non-Contact Voltage Detector told me otherwise. In fact, the two switches were fed by two different breakers. I didn’t want to spend the eighteen dollars at first, but I am glad I did.

[@devil0717]

Thank you for this video. I’m working on my parents property and this helped me immensely!

[@janegilbert6280]

Thank you! You very clearly explained something I'd been unable to find an answer to.

[@GraemePayne1967Marine]

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.

[@josephquinn3259]

Great video! Simple, clear, and very informative.

[@karendavis7988]

Thank you for your wonderful video! It was very informative and precise. This video was exactly what I needed in order to replace my switch.❤❤❤❤

[@Irishguy777]

This was great, thanks very much; appreciate the simplistic and easy approach.

[@robertdicke217]

Love that "pro finish"!!

[@toastonryeYT]

Good way to check for power is have the light on, see it, use the NCV tester to confirm it's working . Then hit your power breaker off. You visually confirm light power is off but you also use the NCV because there still could be a 2nd power source. From some funky DIYer

[@KingSobieski]

Just leave the power on. If you don't shock yourself you saved a trip downstairs.

[@alohamark3025]

​@@KingSobieski If you do shock yourself, you may get a free trip upstairs. Like you, I do a lot of installations on hot circuits. An AC voltmeter, gloves and insulated screwdrivers and pliers have kept me alive. Finding neutral and hot in a circuit is critical for 110 VAC boxes.

[@paandmi]

LOVE your videos. The only thing I wish this would've included was details on 15A vs 20A light switches.

[@KanMan1973]

Great job on the video. Very clearly communicated and fully informative.

[@mg1881]

I didn't know about using the hole in the wire stripper to make the j-hook. That'll save me lots of time in future and do neater work. Thanks!

[@karendavis7988]

Thank you for your wonderful video! It was very informative and precise.

[@tamaralyn79]

Thank you for this step-by-step tutorial!! I just replaced my pantry light switch after it went all wonky. I’m also confident in how it was installed since you have great, easy to understand directions. Now to learn how to do outlets. I do have a question, how would I cover the telephone wall jacks and aux ports? We don’t need them or them anymore because of cell phones and VOIP home phone.

[@rebeccawebb5891]

I replaced all of the light switches in my 3-story house and I had a collection of single pole, 3-way and even a 4-way switch. The rocker switches were beige and from the 90s and I wanted to replace them with bright white ones. It wasn't very difficult except that it wasn't always clear which wire was the hot wire since they weren't different colors. The orientation of the placement of the neutral and hot wires in the old rocker switches were not the same as in the new rocker switches. This means I couldn't just remove one from one switch and put it in the same place as the other switch. In your video, your wires are also the same colors. How did you open it up and automatically know which one was the hot wire? I had to go turn the power back on and use my tester to determine which one was hot. I also didn't realize that I didn't have to connect the copper or ground wire to the switch until your video? Why is it there?

[@SportsGod4Ever]

Annnd you just gained an easy subscriber lol. Thanks for the help!

[@Number1fanofcaptain]

The 2 and 3 way examples was super helpful!

[@dhndavid1]

Thank you. Great beginner video. In installing a 2 way switch are the two black wires interchangeable. Thank you

[@saltytoothpaste]

Wow thank you this actually worked for me in two seconds after “wiggling and pulling” for 20 minutes. Gotta love KZbin

[@wadeh486]

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.

[@johnmerkel756]

I loved how you used the wire stripper to make the J hook !

[@johnskedgell405]

Appreciate you vids. I have been using the tools I you show for years and never knew all of then ways to use to make the jib easier!

[@tsetendorjee9040]

This is a very good show and we love it !

[@SophieBird07]

Wow! I have learned so much! Being a bit nervous still, but inspired! I’m going to throw the main power probably, and then fix all the ancient outlets and switches I have. Still will be using a Fluke tester. But thank you so much!

[@jolldoes1515]

I always put electric tape around before inserting switches or outlets. Good presentation

[@XLGaming]

I only use electrical tape if the contacts are too close to the edge of a box or mud ring (my home has metal boxes). otherwise you are left with a sticky switch if you ever replace it. Theres nothing wrong with electrical tape, it's just not necessary in most homes that use plastic boxes.

[@jroney10]

At 10:12 on your How to change a light switch/ Beginners Guide video Notice that there are two slits on the device where the mounting screw is located. One slot is for 12 AWG the other side is for 14 AWG wire, both can be used as a stripper.

[@hoangduocsu75]

I really like they way you take time to explain the subject. thanks for the very helpful video

[@edpowell5754]

Thank you for posting this video. I ALWAYS tape the wirnuts AND tape around the switch itself. If possible when using a metal workbox I try my best to use a ground wire from the switch to the box. I have had switches themselves go bad making the lights flicker. When having to install a new box replacing an old one If possible I like using deepwell box's. Thanks again for posting this video. I like using a wiggie so as to test the ground wires. But often when replacing the wires it can surely become a can of worms big time.

[@mrsmucha]

Thank you so much for this video! Now I have no excuse to change my light switch!

[@TaffenFelspar]

Nice video! Greta info for the DYIs.

[@michellealdorasi8506]

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 :)

[@DavidSmith-lw8tv]

Nice job! Thorough. Job done✅ and I learned.

[@jillmcdonald1714]

Hello Scott, I am trying to do many repairs to my 1999 Triple wide Manufactured home on my own. I thought I knew what I was doing but after replacing only 1 light switch to upgrade to the flat panel switches and outlets. I also replaced 4 outlets but now for some reason, my outlets and the one lite switch, nothing is working at all. I think what you were saying is that a light switch will be a double switch if there are more than 1 switch that goes to 1 room. The power has worked fine before but I don’t know where the problem lies. The light switch does have two switches for the dining room and it has 2 black wires and one Red wire. I investigated a different switch but it is different than the first switch. I was taking only 1 wire off at a time so I am sure it’s correct then go to the next wire and repeat. Both of these switches have a separate switch to light the hallway and dining room. The wires are different so I left those others alone. I did the same thing using just 1 wire at a time to not screw it up and I have replaced 4 of them. Can you please let me know if I am doing something wrong and how to fix the problem. I, like you don’t like the holes to pinch the wires in to so I did the same as you making the J- Hook. I am 61 yrs old and a widow so I have no one that could be able to assist me. I can’t afford to pay an electrician to com out to fix them. Is there a site that you have on here somewhere that would tell me what I did incorrectly? I am trying to work thru my disability and do the work myself or I may never get it done. I would appreciate any help you can give me. Thank you so much. Jill from Washington State

[@donnareed-f8h]

I'm 72 and watched this because I need to fix my kitchen light switch, after seeing you do this, I am sure I'll buy the wrong thing at the hardware store to begin with...but I just want to say and I know it's not relevant to your skills, which I'm sure are top level, but you have beautiful eyes. Not trying to come on to you again, I'm 72 and a great-granny for goodness sake but I am just sincerely saying, you have beautiful eyes.

[@grizz1108]

Thanks for the Chapters amigo

[@J-Jim]

Switches require grounding either through a wire (without getting too technical - the bare or green wire) or by attachment with metal screws to a metal box (that is grounded). Since your box looks non-metallic, the green screw of the switch will need to be attached to a bare copper wire (technically called the equipment grounding conductor). Love your channel!

[@SwiftHelix]

From what I've gone through, grounding a regular switch is more of a hazard than help. Sometimes you don't get the luxury to turn the circuit off and the band around the switch is really close to the live wires. Sometimes the conductors are also really short to work with, trying not to short them out. I ground receptacles all the time and fixtures, just not the switches, unless its a smart/dimmer.

[@pauljohnson1991]

What about houses that don't have a ground wire? Connecting a wire to it won't do much good if it's an actual ground.

[@SbassLaser]

A ground wire inside the light fixture should be all that is needed

[@J-Jim]

@@pauljohnson1991 The NEC has exceptions for this scenario under 404.9.B, Exceptions 1, 2, and 3.

[@1packatak]

@@pauljohnson1991 they have special switches for that. We got them to replace the stuff in our daughter’s 1947 rancher

[@AlongtheRiverLife]

Great video, loved watching it!

[@warrenosborne6044]

Even at 70, I still pick up tidbits. Thank you.

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

You bet 👍

[@rickypurdy2898]

Awesome video, it was a big help.

[@davf4234]

Excellent video Lots of Info .Thanks

[@kennetht.1624]

Very clear instructions for beginners like me. Love it. Thanks

[@211milkman]

Good thing to do while at Lowe's...If you're shopping for single pole switches, Make sure if you need more than one. To check that they are ALL the same kind. I needed 3 single pole switches and when I got home. 2 of them were double pole switches in the single pole bin at the store. Now I have to return the 2 doubles.

[@liamfan]

Followed this and it worked. Thank you!

[@anthonygutierrez2932]

Great video and great channel. One thing I do is mark the hot wire with tape for future reference.

[@beninaskaria]

Which hot wire are you talking about? If your not talking about the travelers then the other wire could either be the source side or the load side in a three way circuit. It depends on which of the two switches your working on.

[@richardgoldman6382]

Excellent work. Like the focus on safety, regulation, and the "Don'ts". And love the teal shirt.

[@Joshyohmygoshy]

You sir are a life saver

[@dhenschel4]

Lots of good information here, thanks for putting it together. Any time I put together a box with more than one fixture in it I wrap every other fixture with black tape to prevent any short between the fixtures. Some people do all of them, but I think thats overkill.

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Yeah, I really only wrap with electrical tape in a tight metal box. Appreciate the feedback.

[@jameskappel]

@@EverydayHomeRepairs Hello, during the '50s and 60's used friction tape for electrical work. is there an advantage or disadvantage or safety reason or self-life for friction tape? or am maybe I'm old school

[@thomasdragosr.841]

@@jameskappel Friction tape DOES NOT insulate. You should only use "plastic" electrical tape for a wire repair or wrapping a switch or receptacle. In the old days splices were dipped in solder then wrapped with rubber tape for an insulation then friction tape was applied over the rubber tape for mechanical protection.Friction tape will dry out from heat and crumble off the splice. The first wire nuts were porcelain followed by bakelite and then modern plastics, now the Wago type connectors are becoming popular (with some electricians) I imagine those old timers freaked out when the first wire nuts came on the scene just like they do today with Wagos.

[@jameskappel]

thank you. got it. much appreciated. have a nice day @@thomasdragosr.841

[@etherealrose2139]

Electric tape is for hacks and amateurs. There is literally no need for it. Nothing is magically shorting out and there's not near enough voltage to jump an air gap of that size. A needless waste that gums up the inside and traps heat and can actually lead to failures. Don't be that guy.

[@isthisme1]

Super helpful. Thank you!

[@thomasloading]

Is it required to cut the wire and make a new J hook or can I unscrew and reuse the existing exposed wire?

[@denisdeslauriers7277]

Here, we talk about single pole vs three way switch (or four-way, if that's the case). Also, with the model of switch you could have put the wire behind the plate and tighten the screw. This type of switch (probably a Cooper), allows you to put two wires in (on the hot side), instead of using a wire-nut (when feeding a second light switch somewhere else).

[@rcartmell9163]

You indicated on the two-way switch, two wires are connected. One is the hot wire and the other is the line or load going to the light fixture. How do you tell which is the hot wire and which is the line? Does it matter which terminal you connect them to. Perhaps labeling one of the wires before disconnecting from old switch. Always enjoy your videos. Would like to see one on a 4-way switch set up. A screwdriver I enjoy is Klein Tools Rapi-Drive screwdriver. Sort of like a speed wrench for screws and works well especially when some switches have long mounting screws.

[@MrFitness94]

It doesn’t matter which terminal you connect them to. Some guys like to have the line side (incoming) coming in through the top still for consistency. To test it, turn light off, turn breaker off, remove switch from box, turn breaker back on, use your tester to see which wire is hot (only one will be). If you have already removed both wires and you still want to know which is the line side and you forgot, then just wire-nut both wires on their own, turn breaker on, test.

[@etherealrose2139]

Doesn't matter. You're breaking the circuit. If you need to know just use your multimeter and test the voltage of each wire to ground.

[@totallyfrozen]

The hot should be black, the other should be white….unless you buy a house one of these other guys owned. Then you’ll be playing guessing games and running back and forth to your panel and poking around with your NCV or multimeter. The NEC specifies the correct wire colors for hot and neutral.

[@daleinaz1]

@@totallyfrozen No, the hot should be black, but the load should be black or red. White is for neutral only, and is connected to the opposite side of the lamp from the switched/load side. All white wires should be connected to earth ground back at the main breaker box. But, yes, it does not matter which wire is connected to which terminal of the switch.

[@MsDaddyrabbit1]

Nickel & dime- awesome 😊

[@bearslair2010]

Excellent job. The only concern I had regatds the colors referred to asbetween light almond and almond - I know them labeled & referred to as almond, and Ivory, and is much less confusing, IMO.

[@TristanMiller88]

THANK YOU SO MUCH...... I WAS ABOUT TO GIVE UP AND CALL A ELECTRICIAN 🤣🤣🤣🤣 BUT THIS SAVED ME

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Happy to help!

[@PiperDad]

Love your videos and been watching a lot of them lately. I haven't measured but do you happen to know if there would be an issue putting two decoras in an older box. Looking at the box might be two tight but again I haven't measured it. Updated all the receptacles now staring to replace the stitches. I beleive the house was built in the 50s. I know the receptacle boxes are metal but seem on the small side so things are a little tighter.

[@johnjohn-ne8fw]

Nicely done 👍

[@rayornelas8459]

Really helpful and informative, thanks.

[@EverydayHomeRepairs]

Happy to help.

[@jefflebowski918]

Pro tip: If the light is only controlled by one switch then the switch is a single pole, if the light is controlled by two switches then you must use a "three way" switch. If a house was built before 2011 then you were allowed to have non-grounded switches and have a white wire, the 2011 NEC code required all switches in dwellings to be grounded and both wires are black.

[@hugoanson2135]

Thankyou for your clarification.

[@lynneaton4302]

So if I have a single pole switch that has three wires (all the same color casing), and I know which is the hot wire, what do I do with the third wire?