How To Install a Dimmer | DIY

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I may not be an electrician, but I have done a ton of electrical work and learned a lot over the years from all the guys working on my sites and wiring my own houses on permit. Feel free to ask questions, You can do it....I can help!

[@VansWorld]

Home RenoVision DIY great video. Ive got a couple smart dimmer switches I need to install. The one says it must have 4 wires. What does that mean. For some reason it says it won’t work without the 4th wire. I’m really confused on it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

power to switch and then wire to light just as shown. If your power goes to the light first and you only have white black and ground then attach the white and the black to the leads. It will work great!

[@philipbreau1246]

At what point would you need to be licenced. I've always did my own electrical right to the panel and even did a complete house 30 years ago including meter base, panel and all wiring, but had to have it inspected. I know times have changed. How does it work today?

[@gregorhanston6683]

I have a very old house. Just remodeled my bathroom and want to put in a dimmer switch. I have the old cloth wiring, has a hot and a neutral/ground? I had it working, but the switch when off would be on, so I switched the hot wires around. It arced and blew the breaker, so I just spun the switch around. Unfortunately the dimmer doesn't work anymore. :(

[@gogojoejoe]

What experience have you had installing switches for Smart lightbulbs and other connected appliances?

[@stonesourG6]

Jeff; just a helpful tip (speaking as an electrician), it’s always good practice to check your electrical tester on a “known” live circuit BEFORE checking the circuit you’re working on. This way, you know that the “tester”, itself, is working.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

great point , not every tester has a set up like mine where when you turn it on it beeps and shows the light so you know the battery is charged.

[@didafm]

You could also check the voltage with a multimeter

[@lzen8197]

Before and after

[@lechence]

I just bought a home, and you are the second dad I needed to help me progress during all those new installations we're doing! Thank you!

[@alexill]

Is it ironic that your dimmer installation has brightened up my life?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad to help illuminate. Cheers!

[@olski2382]

Jeff is clearly a fixture in your life.

[@TheAgentmigs]

Dad jokes.

[@mynameisnotimportant2854]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@kimberlylawrence3183]

I have never commented on a video on KZbin before and I watch a lot of KZbin videos trying to learn how to fix things around the house. This video just impressed me so much with how well he explains the procedure and explains the basics of how electricity works. I really feel like this is something I can do myself which is great because the electricians quoted me $230 to put a dimmer switch in and I just started paying for my daughter's college. Now I need to figure out how to do my glass tile back splash myself. Thank you!!

[@willschultz5452]

Hi Jeff, I am a contractor but I enjoy watching your videos 😀 it seems some people are a little bit too critical about some things that really don't matter that much but are missing some important factors that they should really be worrying about LOL. I like your channel and how you explain it to the average DIY home owner!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks Will, Cheers!

[@duyle8921]

You are really good at explaining things. I especially appropriate that you did not drag on and on. You said what was needed to be said, and no more. Nicely done! Thanks for posting this. I find it very helpful. Keep up the good work.

[@Fliperyy]

My thoughts exactly. Great video, now I have dimmer switches in the house. Thanks!

[@asafamily8817]

i love the patience in which you speak! if you were my dad i might of driven you crazy i love learning and the way you teach is so inviting makes me want to keep learning

[@zanlorenzodubai5139]

WOW!... Within the first 4 minutes...You have just explained so many important things...All With Clear & Direct Instructions. I have been searching for someone to BREAK IT ALL DOWN the way you have. THANK YOU SO MUCH SIR! You are a true educator of all things HOME! As Always...GREAT SHOW & CHANNEL

[@donmichaelscandleco.7612]

I love Jeff he's so informative no matter what he's teaching. His kids are very lucky to be trained by a true professional.

[@jamesh4129]

This was a great video. I installed two LED dimmers in a mess of a box with this video. Another thing worth looking at is if this box is grounded instead of using a wire since I didn't see any grounding wires.

[@DeclanRyanRising]

This is a great real world example of wiring a single pole dimmer switch. Better than the manufacturers with the IDEAL construction environment (lame). Being that this particular video is so effective Id imagine that an instructional video for each of Lutron's dimmers. Not just one, but EACH dimmer they make and show us how to wire them in a real world situation. Then you'll be the greatest product video how to electrician on earth. Cheers!

[@olivercotton347]

It's important to turn off power when installing dimmers. You run the risk of arcing if the switch slides from off to on. Dimmer switches are rheostats. Also, look at what is being dimmed, add up all the wattage from all the bulbs being dimmed. If they add up to more than 600 watts your dimmer will heat up and may cause a fire. I like to leave the switch a quarter-turn loose on the 6-32 screws, when I add the wall plate I like to 1) use a torpedo level or 2) measure the edges if I am next to the corner or a wall or door/window moulding. This ensures that the plate is level or 'looks' level. Finally, I like to have all my plate screws with the slots vertical so that they look consistent throughout the house, don't collect dust, and, I can tell if someone has messed around with the switch/receptacle, etc without telling me (in the event of failure). It's very important to use a quality wire stripper. Any nicks in the wire will eventually break the wire (vibrations, removing during painting, replacing). Hope this helps.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Oliver!

[@olivercotton347]

I've learned so much from you on new products and best techniques. If I lived closer to you I would be wanting/hoping to work for/with you. Stay warm and healthy. Cheers! *hoists a Molson* @@HomeRenoVisionDIY

[@chadc9392]

Was just talking to my wife about adding a dimmer switch and you posted this video. Awesome!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

will be doing a little more in depth video next time to try to capture all the different options people will be seeing in their boxes. Cheers!

[@wfdrum]

The best home reno how to videos on KZbin right here

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thank you, glad you liked this one. Cheers!

[@limpfinger12]

My OCD thanks you for putting the plate screws the same direction!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Right! Cheers!

[@fettyguapo]

Hey Jeff, question, could you be my dad?...all my dad ever taught me was not to trust him when he says he’ll be right back...he went to the “store” 15 years ago

[@mikefasan325]

fetty guapo I feel for you

[@torreschan]

this is a #mood

[@jrcan74]

Thanks, Jeff, you let me learn new stuff which rever the other side to get the right spot when screwing.👍

[@TheBored22]

Just want to point out that a white wire is not always a neutral. Code allows you to use the white wire to bring power to a switch and then the black wire to the light (switch leg). This just saves having to run more wires. If you take apart your switch/dimmer and don't notice the wires and you realize later that there is a white wire with no other white wires in the box, this is why.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Very good point. We pretty much don't see that type of install anymore however it was very common in the old days when the power would go the the room center light. and then a leg would run to the switch and each receptacle individually.

[@TheBored22]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY yeah I haven't seen it done very much but I have had to do it because the switch was so damn far away

[@Lisa-gy5pw]

You make it sooo simple. You gave me confidence. Thanks so much. I hope you have a video for whatever situation I have next.

[@johnesmart5934]

I don't usually comment on KZbin but I just had to say you are a fantastic teacher and I very easily absorbed your info. You're obviously very knowledgeable. Thanks very much !

[@0617kitty]

Thank you! You are helping me to feel more confident about fixing my broken dimmer switch and also the regular switch!

[@mikesmith6476]

I’m doing two switches this morning. Thank you sir

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

Complete Reno on a 1880's house!!!!! Oh, boy the video possibilities!!!! And I KNOW trim videos will be coming up!!! Anxiously awaiting them!!! God bless, and Dirty Jersey out!!!!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Mike, we will be doing this project in 2 major stages. the first stage is an entry and bathroom remodel. we will be doing a lot of woodwork in that entry you will love it. Cheers!

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY yes, I will!!!! Thanks Jeff, 2019 is shaping up to be a great year for @Homerenovisiondiy!!!!! God bless you guys,and Dirty Jersey out!!!!

[@litatylovesyou]

I'm educated & ready to buy a new light switch! Also learned some fun facts. Thanks!

[@BigHairySasquatch515]

everytime I watch, learn a new trick. Screw click, son of..... Wish I thought of that before. Thanks for videos!!!

[@pharoahakhenaten6630]

Detroit loves RenoVisionDIY. Great work Jeff

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Chris, And Cheers to Detroit.

[@gaedikus]

I'm so glad I subscribed to this channel

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

We are too! Cheers!

[@xXLifeIsPaintBallXx]

Does this also work for replacing a regular on/off switch, or does it have to already be a dimmer switch?

[@kapnkerf2532]

It can replace a regular switch. However, you need to make sure your lights are rated for a dimmer switch. I recently installed a dimmer in one of my back bedrooms. The old lights could not dim down to the lowest level. I think they needed a minimum wattage/voltage to work. But It was not a problem because I replaced the lights with new, bright LEDs, which was also pretty easy.

[@kiwiflare]

@@kapnkerf2532 Did you just replace the light bulbs with LEDs or the light fixtures entirely?

[@vanandy]

Thank you for all the amazing DIY tutorial videos. So helpful! Keep up the amazing work!

[@stevem8128]

Great video I think you may have helped me solve a problem I'm having thank you so very much for all of your videos, love your personality!

[@cindeefromnashville]

Well, you’re a natural at this! Keep making videos...you rock!

[@pietro2221000]

Do ELV dimmers make a difference, do we actually need them for LED light fixtures and do they install the same? Cheers!

[@snapperkc9317]

Very helpful explanation on the switch power.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

This is a very typical situation. I will be happy to cover the info on many other setups. Cheers!

[@stephanecourval6090]

What does it mean when there’s a hissing sound from my dimmer installation?

[@wayneachen3568]

Thanks for this video. I’ve got a few switches needing changed and have been kinda sweating it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Wayne, I think some times things like this can be a little scary. Just remember work with the power off. You can also test the switch while it is removed from the box. then turn it off again and then wrap your switches in electrical tape before installing in the box. This way you know you are not going to have any problems. Cheers!

[@Cameroner1]

I was going to request simple electrical jobs videos from you but I didn't know if you did electrical. I'm excited to see that you do!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Cam, I am going to rewire my hole house this year on camera so buckle up. Cheers!

[@kathyr.6825]

I did it!! My new switch had wires but I twisted and capped like to like and joila!! 💪

[@kathyr.6825]

Thank you! 💕

[@ccwnoob4393]

Decent video but some tips: (i) test the volt-tester on a live outlet first and (ii) take a photo of the orig wiring before you pull everything apart.

[@mook528]

LMAO why would anyone need to take a photo of two black wires?

[@CavalierConfessional]

Thank you! Very clear instructions.

[@ItsVerosLife]

Yey!!! Thank you. I needed this video. U r the only one I trust.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thank you, feel free to offer up other video ideas if you have any! Cheers!

[@JMonty215]

I'm glad you did this video 😁 big thumbs up from me

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Glad to help. It was about time we helped out the budding electricians in all of us. Cheers!

[@JMonty215]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY right 👌😉

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

correct!

[@minhdo2896]

Thanks for the electrical videos you promised me were coming, let’s see “replace old lights with recessed lights” or how to wire closet lighting when there’s no light.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

will try to get them all. Cheers!

[@sgtrpalma]

Outstanding video Sir!!!

[@joes2362]

To make the hook, you can also use the holes that are located where the wire cutters are. I find using these holes easier to make the hooks.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers Joe!

[@rvd4lyfe]

Or even use the sides where the screws are of receptacle or switch

[@stevenmoomey2115]

Some of the LED Fixtures are 0 to 10 vdc for the dimmer. They make a dimmer the hooks into this 0 to 10 circuit at the Fixture. The first On click of the light switch, the Light is on full brightness. By repeatedly turning the switch on and off, you dim the light. This way you don’t have to fish extra wires in the Walls and Ceiling, to dim these LED’s.

[@margo6976]

Your videos are super helpful!

[@Irixion]

Love this! Simple, short, sweet and practical! How about one replacing a receptacle? Thumbs up on this vid 😁

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi, we will do the receptacle next, cheers!

[@Raybso247]

I love this guy

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Cheers!

[@syedarmaghanhassan4652]

Thanks very much for sharing Sir. You are certainly a very knowledgeable and experience person. How can we learn the basic of electrics and electronics both? Any book you would recommend to understand and start doing basic stuff safely? Trying to build a studio light, and add a dimmer to it. Bought a socket (E27), with on and off switch. Works fine, but I need to make it dimmable. How to cut the wire and attach a dimmer to it? Why I mentioned about learning electronics earlier? Because I am not sure if I can put 1 to 5 bulb-socket splitter. Because I don't want things to catch fire, or bulbs to fuse. I want to be able to understand, what Voltage and Wattage and Current Amperage input and output is right. How to understand this concept? It just all goes round and round as they are all inter-related. If you could please teach us a bit basic stuff, that would be very kind. Thanks!

[@rocio2574]

This was in my DIY todo list, thanks!!!

[@GenZyannd]

please talk about compatible bulbs for dimmer switchers.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I am a big fan of led everything. and they all work Cheers!

[@abedankiest6204]

Cool I got it! Thanks for the tutorial. Rookie mistake, I drilled too strong and broke the top part of the shallow switch box inside 😅.

[@alhavana9426]

I want to wire a shed have an outdoor 12-2 wire come into the shed wall n wire it for 2 wall outlets and 1 overhead light with a switch,do you any videos on this??

[@RepsUp100]

This guy is great

[@volrathdesign]

Hey Jeff, huge fan of this show, can you possibly add to this video how to install a dimmer switch when there wasn't one there before? This video is more of a "how to replace a dimmer switch with another dimmer switch"

[@mook528]

If the process is the same if you are repacing an on/off switch with a dimmer, just two wires (line and load) and a ground (maybe).

[@DanielKing2014]

Excelent video..!

[@DriverDude100]

Good video. He even clocked the screws on the plate cover.

[@xJUDAZ]

Thanks for video,what type of light bulb you recommend for dimmer?

[@vladorlovsky6623]

Great video. Thank you very much.

[@mikefasan325]

You should explain the other Canadian dimmer wiring... pull the the three way switch with one black, one white and a red where the dimmer/timer has b/w/r/y/g

[@NikeMikey101]

1:38 home wire is 14 gauge? Only if you are on 15amps. 12 gauge for 20amp.

[@davec.3198]

Why are you running a 14 to a light?

[@raymartinez1170]

Great video, Jeff you the man.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks Ray, Glad to help! Cheers!

[@redyumi6441]

Jeff's the man!

[@missarcastic4215]

My entire house is about to be dimmable!!!!!!

[@jamesswain5652]

Should I try this myself as I’ve never gone any electricity work please ?

[@justinyeary1037]

Hey Jeff, you're videos have been so helpful! I couldn't have done my drywall without you. Do you have any advice for replacing wall outlets so they are flush with the wall? I've replaced one room's worthy, but it looks like the boxes were either installed crooked or the walls just aren't flush. My wife and I bought a 1920 house and are slowly but surely putting a lot of love into it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Hi Justin, the secret to old uneven walls is to purchase the nylon unbreakable plates. they can be secured with more pressure and create the look of a flush plate by removing the shadows. if that is not enough then use an4|" knife and apply a circle of mud around the fixture evenly to create a smooth surface. Cheers!

[@CaptainCocaine]

inb4 "OMG leave electricity to electricians!" You likely use saws and routers that can easily take off your fingers. You work under cars that can easily crush you. Electrical is just another thing you have to know some basic safety rules to do basic tasks safely. Changing an outlet or light switch is very basic and this is a DIY channel.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

LOL, first let me say I have nothing but respect for an electrician. Secondly I have nothing but respect for electrical power. It is however as simple in most cases using lego blocks. All you need is the right tool and a little info to run most basic elements in a home. Cheers!

[@jordanl5341]

Can you do a video on how to run a new line? I am sure there are a bunch of great tips I didn't know about!

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

filming that process as we speak. we will have them out in a few weeks. Cheers!

[@karlag.glover2760]

This is a great video!

[@Engineer9736]

I have dimmers which have connections more like a potentiometer. Neutral and live coming in and one live out towards the bulb. So it’s quite dimmer specific how to connect it. If unsure, hook it up without power, turn power on, turn the dimmer on using a broomstick to keep distance LOL. If it explodes or starts smoking and stinking then it was wrong.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

some dimmers have different installation instructions.

[@ralphfurley123]

This video is extremely helpful!!! I subscribed because of it!!! Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!!! ☮️🖖🏽

[@qwaqwa1960]

Thank you for setting your cover screw slots vertical! Personally, I set outlet screws vertical, switch screws, horizontal :-)

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

That is awesome. I will have to remember that. Cheers!

[@HienNguyen]

Nice instructions. Do you need special bulbs to work with dimmer switches? I see some LED bulbs that say they are dimmable, and some that don't say. What's the difference?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

some lights are not compatible. always check before installing. Cheers!

[@HienNguyen]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY OK, thanks.

[@mariomatejka]

OK, the home wiring is 14 gauge. My dimmer and light fixtures have wires coming out of them which will have to be joined to the home wiring with marrettes. What is the typical gauge of these wires so I know what size marrette to use?

[@Anonmesye]

Whatever happened to having a black and a white wire rather than 2 BLACKS ?🤔

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

that scenario comes into play if the power is coming from the light first. in this case the power is coming to the switch box first andn then travels to the light. Cheers!

[@mr.g937]

Only devices that consume electricity need a neutral. A standard switch does not consume electricity. Smart switches and switches with lights do, however, and usually require a neutral. You will always have two hot wires (could be black and black, black and red, etc.) because one is the power source (line) and the other is the end device such as a light (load).

[@Toyotarunner13]

@@mr.g937 I have 3 blacks going in to a switch. When I connect them one of the 3 whit wires becomes hot? Wth then no power to the fan?

[@ibrazeau3044]

Hi Jeff, the strip pliers will strip easier if you tilt the plier at 40 to 45 degrees before closing them on the wire... this cuts and pushes the wire protection away from the cut making it easy to pull it off. If your on the electricity subject... three and four ways are my most commonly asked question and connecting commons of same circuits... you know, these white wires everyone seems to interconnect without question ;). Also, how to properly twist wires before installing the marrett... just subjects. Thanks for posting

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Thanks, we will be covering a lot of DIY electrical this year. Cheers!

[@justinlee713]

Can you create a video that explains carpeting a basement bedroom? So many questions.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

Great question. we will see !

[@matton8315]

Thank you, this was very helpful. Had half a clue but this made it fall together. My dimmer switch with LED works great.

[@ummasalma1247]

Hi Jeff, after watching your video, iI am trying to change my dimmer switch which is not working for months but looking at the wiring of the wall i am a bit confused. From bottom of the wiring box which i think is coming from panel, has one black and white wire. From top of the wiring box which i think is going to the light fixture has black, white and red wire. two ground wiring is attached with two screws in the box. now the dimmer switch i bought is Leviton which has two red, one black and one green. So please help me how i am going to connect the wires. your video inspired me to do it. I also DIY most of my house fixing things except the electrical things. I want to do it by myself with your help.

[@GeorgeHale1984]

Thanks for the video man! I've got a light switch upstairs in this house where the switch mounting hangs off the wall a bit because the box in the wall can't hold the screws anymore, but it's got a mess of wires from the ceiling light in there. I believe I just have to throw out the old box and put a new one in but that also means ripping the wall open and sorting out the wires through the holes. If you have any advice there I'd appreciate it.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

try using a course thread drywall screw to reattach the switch. Cheers!

[@someperson4712]

Can I replace any light fixture to add a dimmable?! I wanna make the kitchen lights dimmable, do I just replace the switch and the bulbs?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

most bulbs are compatible. and most fixtures as well.

[@martinalvarez3271]

Thanks for the video! Much help!

[@AlecBig]

Hey quick question my house was built in the 50s every electrical outlet only has a white and black no ground.. so if I wanted to install a dimmable switch for my dimmable recessed lighting would the switch need that 3rd wire to work?

[@justinlocke]

You may have ground in the box (es). you will need a multimeter to test for it.

[@albertclemente8739]

great video, as always

[@kazimierz3000]

Very helpful, thanks!

[@ebiedog]

Great video. Thanks!

[@Nsingh11]

Excellent, video. I commented few months ago about vent being covered up under the drywall, I manged to find two out of three, I used a Stanley inspection camera. I looked for the hot areas, but the Last one the exhaust for the water heater is close by; I can find it. Any ideas?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

guess, repair what needs to be fixed. it is only drywall. Cheers!

[@kryptik0]

Are those black wires interchangeable? If they were reversed, wouldn't your dimmer work in the other direction (OFF @ TOP and FULL @ BOTTOM)?

[@hmontoya8587]

So the black wires are interchangeable on say a dimmer or paddle switch with quick inserts

[@mook528]

yes

[@Andre-tc1wj]

Great video. I will go replace mines this weekend. Do you have any videos on recess lights.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

working on all things electrical as we speak. Cheers!

[@la196]

They say a high percentage of lacerations requiring stitches in emergency rooms is from opening those darn plastic packaging, might considering donning gloves:). Great job with the details as always.

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

I do not doubt it. Cheers!

[@NVGamingOwl]

Does it matter what type of light you have? Is it okay to use on a regular light bulb?

[@mook528]

You can use it on any bulb that is dimmable

[@marekbratos5313]

Hi Jeff, I have question but about something else. I have old vinyl stick to the concrete slab in laundry.What should I do remove it or put tiles on it. House was built in 1982 and I'm worry about asbestos. Thanks

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

You can always install a floating vinyl floor over top. I would use the new vinyl plank. it will look great and perform well and you save all that time not needing to remove the old one.

[@marekbratos5313]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY it will be nice option but is it going to work with drain in the middle?

[@peterjg001]

Do dimmers work with led spotlights?

[@Janice.AlbornozHome]

Well, I’m off to change my switches in my home 🏡 I hope I get to comment on your next video lol 😂

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

How are things going with the project. Still with us? Cheers!

[@Paintball4life87]

I need to install a dimmer for my new chandelier. However the chandelier had 12 40W LED bulbs. I can't seem to find a dimmer rated for LED bulbs over 450W where I would need at least 480W. I've looked everywhere, any thoughts?

[@Montanaunfiltered]

Great video, thanks, very instructional. Would you mind popping round to Spain and fixing mine?!

[@Bayoubebe]

New sub...love this

[@elenasimon1270]

Have an exhaust fan with light. Would like to put a timer on it. Is that doable?

[@HomeRenoVisionDIY]

most exhaust fans require full power and are not set up for a dimmer application.

[@willschultz5452]

Yes that's definitely doable and it's a fairly easy one 😀

[@willschultz5452]

@@HomeRenoVisionDIY I think she is referring to a timer so the fan only stays on a predetermined amount of time not a dimmer

[@elenasimon1270]

Home RenoVision DIY TIMER not dimmer. I’ll figure it out.

[@epluribusunum7736]

Easy. Basic rewire as if it were a new switch. Just purchase the correct timer.