Great Adding A Light Switch

Back at the switch box test once again to make sure.

Adding a light switch. Step 18 attach both switches to the double gang remodel box at the top and bottom of the switch using the screws provided with the switches. Take note of which wire causes the tester to light up. In this diagram power is taken from an existing wall outlet for a new switch and light fixture.

With the light switch turned off hold the noncontact voltage detector against each of the wires connected to the switch. If you re adding a separate single switch this is the wire you ll use to power both switches. Remove the two 6 32 screws securing the switch in the box.

If not you ll have to wire a longer wire from the light fixture to the switch or from the switch to the power source. Wrap the remaining pigtail around the remaining screw on the new switch and tighten both screws. Wrap the black wire from your new light fixture around a screw on the right side of the new switch.

From the switch new 2 wire cable is run to the new light location. This is the hot wire and the one you ll connect to the hot side of the new double switch. Replace the existing twin and earth cable between the ceiling rose and switch with a 3 core and earth type.

Next above the ceiling locate the hole which can be made easier by poking something through from below and determine its location to the nearest joist. You can wire the new wall light fixture into the existing light and have a single switch control both lights. If your wiring is long enough you can use it to run to the switch.

The switch comes first in the new part of the circuit and new 2 wire cable is run to it from the outlet. Also find a diagram for adding a light from a switched receptacle you already have to include the fixture when you turn on the room light. If the existing cable is installed in conduit or a hollow wall it should be easy to pull a new cable in without damaging the wall.