Looking to get romantic this Valentine's Day? Who isn't. Try installing a dimmer switch to adjust the light in your apartment. It's easy to do yourself and, as an added bonus, it can save electricity. WARNING: you must be extra-careful when working with electricity. If you have doubts, consult a professional.
How to Install a Dimmer Switch
You'll need the following:
- screwdriver
- circuit tester
- wire cutter
- wire stripper
- 3 twist-on wire connectors
Step 2: Remove the light switch cover plate.
Step 3: Unscrew the screws that anchor the light switch in the box. Use a circuit tester to confirm none of the wires are live.
Step 4: Unscrew the ground wire and other two wires. Using wire strippers remove a portion of the wire insulation to reveal the wire leads. You'll connect these to the coordinating wires that come with your dimmer switch.
Step 5: Connect the ground wire to the ground wire of your dimmer switch using a twist-on connector. Rotate clockwise to twist into place.
Step 6: Connect the remaining two wires to the matching wires on your dimmer switch. Connect using the twist-on connector as you did in Step 5.
Step 7: Screw the dimmer switch into the electrical box. Replace the light switch cover.
Step 8: Attach your dimmer knob. It should just pop on by pushing it.
Step 9: Turn on the power again at the curcuit breaker.
Step 10: Enjoy your new dimmer light!
Here is an excellent video tutorial on the whole process.
Save the basic light switch. You can do the same process in reverse and take your dimmer switch with you when you move. Enjoy!
