The switch may require replacement due to the most various reasons. Sometimes the box just breaks or wears out. It won’t take much time to carry out the whole complex of work yourself. It is known that replacing an old switch with a new one takes no more than 20 minutes even for an untrained person. However, before starting work, you need to take precautions. In this article we will tell you how to replace a light switch in an apartment with your own hands, and consider options for single-key and two-key switches.
Preparation
If possible, it is better to use the services of an electrician to replace the switch. Replacing the switch yourself can be dangerous.
- Before you replace the switch yourself, you must first remove the light bulb and check whether the switch is really at fault. After all, it often happens that the cartridge simply burns out.
- It is also necessary to establish that there is light in other rooms of the apartment.
- If it is definitely established that a specific switch is faulty, then it must be dismantled. However, before this, you will first have to completely cut off the power to the apartment. After turning off the switch, you should make sure that there is no voltage on the line. After this, you need to tell your loved ones not to turn on the light or turn the switch. People who are in the room must be aware that electrical work is being done.
Dismantling
- First, the switch keys are removed. This is usually done simply: you just need to pry them off and carefully remove them.
- Double keys must be removed one by one.
- After the keys are removed, you should remove the outer part of the box, which serves decorative decoration for the switch. As a rule, it can be removed as easily as the keys themselves. Just pry it off with a screwdriver and pull it towards you.
- After removing the decorative part, the technician will see the screws with which the switch itself is screwed on. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws.
- The switch is removed from the opening.
- After dismantling the switch, the technician will see the wiring. They must also be disconnected. It is important to remember in what order and in what places they were installed.
- The wires should be insulated. After all the manipulations are completed, you can even turn on the switch. Wires in this condition are not dangerous.
Since the wires must be insulated in any case, it is better to use different insulating tape for these purposes, then the wires will never get mixed up.
Choosing a new switch
When the work is completed, you can check whether the installation was carried out correctly. To do this, you need to turn on the switch and turn on the electricity. In case of any malfunctions, it is better to quickly de-energize the system.
Touch systems and switches with LEDs are installed in the same way as a simple switch.
Video
The following video will help you understand the technology for replacing switches:
Replacing a light switch in an apartment is a fairly simple operation that even a beginner can handle home handyman. All you need is basic knowledge of electrical engineering and the ability to work with simple tools.
Preparatory stage
The main thing when working with electricity is safety. In the absence of confidence in own strength It is recommended to use the services of a professional electrician.
If you decide to do the work yourself, follow these preparatory steps:
- The lack of light is not caused by problems in the electrical network, but by a burnt-out cartridge. Checking the cartridge.
- Let's see if there is light in other parts of the house (apartment).
- If, based on the results of the check, there are no malfunctions not related to the electrical network, we proceed to dismantling the switch. Before changing the switch, we turn off the power to the apartment. To do this we use a switch. We check the mains voltage with an indicator. We inform family members about the event repair work. No one should use the light while the switch is being replaced.
To carry out electrical installation you will need the following tools and materials:
- voltage indicator (do not use this tool as a screwdriver due to excessive fragility);
- a set of screwdrivers (phillips and a couple of flat tools of different sizes);
- pliers;
- stationery knife;
- insulating tape;
- flashlight for illuminating dark areas.
Dismantling
We carry out the work in the following sequence:
- We remove the keys from the switch. We do this with a screwdriver, prying off the keys. We remove the double keys one by one.
- Filming external panel boxes with the same screwdriver.
- When the panel is removed, the screws that secure the switch itself become visible. Unscrew the screws.
- We take out the switch from the niche.
- Disconnect the wires. It is important to remember the order in which the wires are connected. It is recommended to take a photo working field so as not to get confused later.
One button connection
Before replacing any light switches, we strip off the insulating layer on the wires. We lay five-millimeter sections of wires into the switch terminals. The phase wire (red) is directed to the contact designated as L1. We connect the blue (black) wire to pin L2. We install the switch in a niche. We secure the housing using sliding strips and screws.
We turn on the power supply at the distribution panel and test the system for operability.
Sometimes the light is turned off by moving the key upward. Then we turn the device case over and swap the conductors. We fix decorative panel and a switch key.
Installation with two buttons
Replacement single-key switch to a two-key switch is carried out according to the same algorithm as in the case of a single-key switch.
There is a difference: you will need to connect three phase conductors to terminals L1, L2 and L3. For a three-key device we use four conductors: one to the phase, and one to each contact.
Not in every case, wires of the usual colors are used: red for phase, black (blue) for zero. In old buildings and private homes color scheme often different. Single-color wires are also available. It is recommended to search necessary wires using the indicator.
It is easy to replace the switch with one of the same number of contacts and type of installation. Switches according to the type of installation are for outdoor and internal wiring. Switches differ greatly from each other in the number of disconnected contacts, and in order to replace a single-key switch with a two- or three-key switch, you will need to lay one or two additional wires from it, respectively, to the lamp.
Find the tool you need.
Pockets should have:
- voltage indicator, do not use it as a screwdriver; this tool is very fragile;
- three screwdrivers - one with a Phillips blade, and two different in size with a flat blade;
- pliers or wire cutters;
- stationery knife;
- insulating tape;
- A flashlight is always useful.
Take safety precautions when working with electricity.
It is necessary to wear shoes with thick insulating soles. Go to the electrical panel and turn off the electricity supply to your apartment, near the electric meter. It's as simple as unscrewing the fuses, turning off the circuit breaker, or turning the handle of the package switch.
Protect yourself, warn everyone in your household about your work. Write and hang a piece of paper on the electrical panel with the inscription “Don’t turn it on! Work in progress" . This is especially important if you turn off the electricity on a common landing.
For additional safety, you can lay a rug made of insulating material. This will especially save you if the apartment has a bare concrete floor.
Shoot old switch.
Open the switch. Remove the keys by prying them with a wide screwdriver and pulling them towards you with the other hand, and also remove the decorative cover.
Make sure there is no voltage at the contacts to which the wires are connected. A must for everyone! Use a simple voltage indicator for this. 
Unscrew the screws on both sides where the wires do not fit. If they hold the switch body on the mounting frame, then unscrew them completely. There is no need to completely unscrew the screws on the expansion tabs; just loosen them and the inside of the switch will come free.
Take out inner part device. Pull it out as far as the length of the free wires allows.
Place new switch.
Inspect the ends of the wires for signs of overheating or oxidation. Cut off damaged ends until good insulation begins. If you need to lengthen short wires, do it with a piece of wire of the same material and no less thickness. Be sure to solder the connection point for excellent contact, and insulate it well.
The insulation on the wires should be removed by approximately 6 - 7 mm, for fastening without bends, and stripped by 18 - 21 mm, when twisting the ring. It is convenient to bend the ring of wires over the screw with which it will be pressed.
The most important thing is to find the phase wire. Move the exposed wires further away in different directions and make sure that they do not sag or touch the wall. Turn on the voltage temporarily. Use the indicator to find the wire that has voltage and mark it.
Connect the wires correctly. There are switches with marks where you need to connect the phase; this “L” mark is located on the base of the device. The icons “1”, “2” or an arrow indicate the mounting points to which the outgoing wires to the lamp are connected. 
There are no markings, then we connect the phase wiring to the central contact, in the middle between the other two wires. In a single-key switch, the phase must be supplied to the fixed bottom contact, although this rule is not strictly controlled.
Clamp the wires with screws, and check that the wires are securely fastened by pulling them out of the clamps.
Make sure that the bare part of the wire does not protrude from the contact by more than 2 - 3 mm.
Reinstall the switch. Pay attention to the correct installation of the switch. The keys should turn on when they are pressed at the top. 
Align the switch horizontally and secure it. Screw the mounting frame to the installation box or secure the switch with expansion lugs. If you can’t securely fasten it with the paws, then put a plastic ring cut from a bottle, pipe, or anything else into the socket.
Finish your work. Fix the decorative trim first. Don't be stupid, place it correctly if it says "ON", "OFF" or others. Apply exactly decorative trim keys and press them into place.
To change a switch in an apartment or office, you don’t have to understand the electrical wiring at all, where the phase or neutral is located. With the switch everything is very simple, if you first turn off the voltage in the panel and know how to handle a screwdriver. We'll assume you can do it. So, how to change a switch with your own hands?
Where to start?
Put aside your fear of electricity (if you have one, of course) and boldly get down to business. In this case, you will receive three pluses. Firstly, save your time waiting for the master. Secondly, save your money. And thirdly, you will gain experience working with electricity. If it seems to you that this is not entirely easy, you can use our instructions and you will succeed, and making such a replacement is no more difficult than.
Important! Before you begin any action, you must be sure that the power to the outlet is turned off!
Tools and materials for work:
- Switch to replace the old one:
- Phillips or flathead screwdriver;
- Small pliers;
- Indicator screwdriver.
Instructions for replacing the switch
Video: how to change the switch
In addition, look short video a story about replacing a switch with your own hands without calling an electrician and remember, if the wiring is not completely old, then doing such work will not be difficult for you.
In the process of life, you have to face the need to replace the switch. This could be at work, at office premises or apartment, most often due to repairs or a malfunction of the switch. In any case, if you want to master the technique of replacing switches with your own hands, so as not to resort to the services of an electrician, it will be useful for you to read this article.
Operating principles
In order to replace switches and avoid mistakes that could lead to undesirable consequences:
- short circuit;
- failure of lighting fixtures;
- burnout of wiring in walls and junction boxes;
- worst case scenario – electric shock to a person
you need to familiarize yourself with the principle of operation of switches, safety precautions, remember the diagrams of their connection in the circuit electrical wiring, study the rules for dismantling, installation and connection, take into account design features when installing new switches of various types.
Species
Switches are divided according to the method of mounting on the wall:
- Switches for hidden wiring are inserted into a pre-made recess in the wall with a plastic or metal cylindrical socket box.
- Surface-mounted switches for open wiring are used in wooden switchboard structures. In these cases, the wires are often mounted on the wall surface or laid in special plastic cable channels.
Products are divided according to the design of terminals for fastening the ends of the wiring:
- Screw terminals clamp the stripped end of the wire between two plates. As a disadvantage of this design, one can note the slight heating of the contacts when clamping aluminum wires with brass plates. The difference between the metals in the contact creates resistance; when current passes, the terminals heat up. For this reason, the screws must be periodically tightened to ensure more reliable contact. If the wiring in the room is made with copper wires, there will be no such problem.
- Clamping spring terminals do not require any maintenance screw tightening. A powerful spring constantly presses on the brass plate, pressing the stripped end of the wire. In this way, high-quality contact is constantly maintained.
- Switches are divided by the number of buttons: one-button, two-button and even three-button. One button turns on a light source with a single or group of lamps that turn on simultaneously, for example, in a toilet or bathroom.
Almost always in the hall, lighting structures have several groups of lamps, which can be turned on separately or all together using different buttons of one switch. Listed here are the simplest light switches, often used in everyday life in apartments and private houses.
There are switches of more complex and expensive designs:
- Touch (capacitive) are triggered by a light touch with a finger;
- With a dimmer - by changing the resistance, you can achieve a smooth increase or decrease in brightness;
- Acoustic switches are triggered by clap or voice command;
- WITH remote control have several functions: switching on by groups, changing brightness and others.
The principles of their operation and the features of connecting them yourself deserve consideration in a separate topic.
Dismantling
When making renovations in an apartment with your own hands, at the stage of replacing switches, pay attention to the safety rules. First of all, at the distribution board, turn off the circuit breaker from which the lighting group with the switch to be dismantled is powered. By de-energizing the circuit, you will eliminate the possibility of electric shock.
On old-style switches for hidden wiring, the mounting bolts are located on the front panel and are easily accessible. In new models they are located under the keys of the switch buttons, which are simply pryed off with a screwdriver and removed. By unscrewing the fastening screws and removing the top cover, you will see the switch structure fixed in a cylindrical frame.
IN classic version upon contact with terminal thumb must be kept on the top of the handle, where a contact is provided to provide a control circuit. If the screwdriver indicator light on one of the contacts lights up, the circuit breaker on the distribution board is not turned off.
Turn off the switch of the desired group; if there is no voltage at the terminals of the switch being removed, proceed to further actions.
Remove the two screws of the sliding strips securing the switch frame to the wall socket. Unscrew the screws on the terminals, freeing the wires; if the ends have burnt insulation, bite off that area with wire cutters. Mark the phase wire by bending it, or glue it with electrical tape for ease of further connection.
Switches for open wiring are dismantled using the same method, the difference is that they do not have a locking mechanism with sliding bars. Then the screws are unscrewed, pressing the switch structure to the wall.
One button connection
Strip the insulation at the ends of the wires, connect 5 mm sections to the switch terminals, the phase (red wire) to the contact marked L1. Blue or black wire - to the contact marked L2. Insert the switch into the socket, secure the housing with sliding bars and screw in the screws.
Turn on the network at the distribution board and check operation. It happens that turning off is carried out by pressing the key up, turn the switch body over or swap the wires. If everything is fine, screw on the decorative cover and secure the switch key.
Installation with two buttons
The difference in connection with a single-key switch is that three phase wires are connected to terminal L3 and two wires to L1 and L2. A three-key switch has four wires: one phase and three contacts for different groups connections. The rest of the removal, installation and connection method for hidden and external wiring switches remains the same.
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Basic requirements for work on replacing electrical equipment
There are a number of requirements for carrying out repair work on electrical equipment. Their implementation will ensure the safety of the entire work process.
It is important to take into account that each installed device partially differs in installation principle according to its distinctive features.
Replacing a single-key switch
Experts consider it the most simple option removal/installation. The diagram for connecting the lamp via a single-key switch is shown in the figure.
But it is still important to take into account a number of actions, and the topic of the day, how to change a switch, will disappear by itself. To dismantle the light switch, you must sequentially perform:
- removing keys using a screwdriver;
Installing a new switch to replace the old one is carried out in the reverse sequence of the above steps.
- The place of work must be de-energized;
- We check the integrity of the insulation on the wires;
- We prepare a new switch for installation;
- We customize required length wires;
- If necessary, we strip the wires of insulation;
- We connect the wires to the switch;
- We check the quality of tightening of contacts;
- Once again we check the correctness of the assembled circuit;
- We install the insides of the switch into the socket box;
- We set the switch to the level;
- We screw the switch using screws to the socket box;
- We install the decorative trim and switch keys in place.
After installation, we check the work done by turning on the electricity supply.
Replacing a one-button switch with a two-button one
Craftsmen faced with installing more simple equipment, they probably know how to replace a switch with more keys.
Suppose you decide to replace an old one-button switch with a multi-button one for better or more economical distribution of light in the room.
When installing a switch with two buttons, it is important to consider the moment of connecting the wires to the equipment. One wire with a phase is suitable for the two-key switch (it comes from the circuit breaker in the input panel). You need to find it even before the voltage is removed from the switch using a voltage indicator or an indicator screwdriver. Required quantity There should be two outgoing wires from the switch to the load. Each key has an individual wire connected to the lamp, through which the current from the switch will subsequently flow.
The installation sequence for a two-button switch is similar to the steps for replacing a one-button switch in an apartment.
How to change a switch to a touch switch
When installing a touch device, you must perform the following steps:
- electrical shutdown;
- dismantling old equipment;
- removing the top part of the panel;
- connecting wires according to the terminals;
- installation in a mounting box (socket box) with fixation using spacers and screws.
So, there is nothing complicated in the question of how to replace an old switch with a touch switch; you just need experience in installing a regular push-button switch. The main thing is to read the instructions for connecting the touch switch.
Installing a switch with a dimmer
If you decide to purchase and install this type of device yourself, there is no reason to worry. It is installed in order to be able to adjust the lighting. 
But many are still interested in the question of how to replace regular switch to the dimmer. This modified device in installation is not much different from the installation of conventional equipment of this type. The only condition imposed by the manufacturer can be considered compliance with the rules for connecting wires to the phase and load terminals on the switch. You will also read about this in the manufacturer’s instructions and in the article on connecting a dimmer. 
electry.ru
Operating principles and types of switches - what you need to know to avoid harming yourself
Replacing a light switch in an apartment is a relatively quick procedure that does not require any additional tools and equipment. However, you must act as carefully and carefully as possible, since you have to deal with electricity. Wrong actions can lead to very disastrous consequences:
- Fire of wiring in the distribution panel and walls;
- Failure of lamps and other household appliances, connected to the network;
- Short circuit;
- The saddest development of events is electric shock.
In this regard, before starting work, it is imperative to purchase protective gloves, preferably made of rubber, and strictly follow all the requirements and rules of electrical safety. To avoid mistakes during operation, it is recommended to spend some time studying the design features electrical equipment, and also remember the connection diagrams in the electrical wiring circuit. In some cases, you can even take a photo with your phone so that there are no problems later after replacing a broken device.
Due to the fact that light switches are used almost constantly, especially in winter time years, a huge number of the most different models, which differ appearance, design features, functionality. First of all, there are two groups of switches depending on the mounting to the wall:
- 1. Hidden wiring– a special metal or plastic socket box is used, installed in a recess in the wall. This is where the equipment is installed.
- 2. Open wiring - in this case, you will need surface-mounted switches, which are used in panel board products made of wood. The cable is routed outside, so it has to be hidden in special cable channels so as not to be accidentally damaged during everyday activities.
If we talk about the design of the terminals with which the device is attached to the wiring, then there are also two main groups. The first includes screw terminals - these elements are designed to secure the stripped ends of the wire located between the plates. If you use aluminum wires together with brass plates, a lot of resistance is created, which causes serious overheating of the entire equipment. To avoid this, it is necessary to constantly tighten the screws, which will ensure high-quality contact between the elements. At the same time, copper is not subject to such temperature changes, so wiring from copper wires does not overheat.
Naturally, changing wiring to copper seems to be a rather complicated process. It is much easier to use clamp terminals, which are equipped with a special spring mechanism. Thanks to this, the brass plate is constantly under enormous pressure, resulting in reliable and high-quality contact. The possibility of fire is minimal, while preventive tightening of the screws will no longer be necessary.
Based on the number of buttons, light switches are:
- 1. Single-button – work with one light source or group of lamps. When pressed, all lighting elements connected to this switch are turned on at once.
- 2. Devices with two or more buttons - with the help of such devices you can turn on individual lamps on a chandelier. Very convenient, especially if the lamp is equipped with a large number of lamps. In this case, you can turn on only a few lamps so as not to waste a large amount of electrical energy.
Speaking about the types of switches, it is impossible not to mention modern expensive designs, which are becoming increasingly in demand:
- With a dimmer - a rotating element that allows you to smoothly increase or decrease the brightness of the light;
- Touch – responsive to the palm placed in close proximity to the equipment;
- Acoustic – triggered by voice commands or clapping;
- With remote control.
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Switch replacement
1. Remove the switch key(s) by prying it(s) off the edges one by one with a flat-head screwdriver or putty knife.
After this, remove the decorative frame-overlay. Depending on the design of the switch, it can be attached directly to the switch body, or through an additional pressure plate.
Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry up the frame or the plate that secures it and pull it towards you.
It should snap open and be removed from the switch body. Once you have removed the keys and frame, you will have access to either the screws holding them in place. electrical wires to the switch terminals, or the wires themselves.
With the switch in the off position, use an indicator screwdriver to touch all the screws one by one, or to the bare sections of the wires to make sure that there is no phase voltage on the wires and that the switch can be replaced safely. The indicator light should not light up. If the indicator light lights up somewhere, try turning off another switch on the panel, or turning off the power to the entire apartment.
Once you have verified that there is no phase voltage in the wires, you can safely continue.
2. Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screws securing the switch housing in the socket box, rotating them counterclockwise. If these are the screws of the spacer “legs”, then it is enough to unscrew them 3-5 turns (loosen the fastening).
If the switch is screwed to the socket box with screws, then to remove the switch you must completely unscrew them.
Remove the switch from the socket as far as the wires allow, carefully straightening them.
If you have a one-button switch installed, then unscrew the screws that secure the wires to the switch terminals 2-3 turns and disconnect the wires from the switch.
Some types of switches may be equipped with self-clamping terminals (no screws required). In such terminals, the wires are inserted with some force into the holes intended for this purpose, without subsequently being fixed with screws. If you do not find any sign of screws in the place where the wires are inserted into the switch, try to forcefully pull the wire, and it should pop out of the terminal clamp. Alternatively, locate and press the release button, which will release the wire.
If there are more than one buttons on your switch, then mark all the wires in the order in which they are screwed to the switch. Hang tags, mark with a marker, stick on different pieces of electrical tape, or otherwise mark the wires so that you can then connect them to the new switch in the same sequence. One wire (phase, if the electricians did everything correctly) should be connected on one side of the switch, the other 2 or 3 on the other.
3. Inspect the wires for damage. If the end of the wire is damaged, oxidized or broken, and the length of the wires allows them to be shortened slightly, then trim the broken area with side cutters and strip off 5-7 mm of insulation.
Also check the socket box in which the switch was installed. If it is loose in the wall or has started to fall apart for some reason, it would be best to replace it.
If everything is in order with the socket box, then you can connect a new switch.
4. Remove the new switch from the packaging. Remove the switch key(s) by carefully picking them up by the edge. Try to do this carefully, without damaging the plastic surface of the keys and frame. Carefully remove the frame. Some frame latches have quite delicate plastic latches. If they are broken due to careless handling, then subsequently the frame on the switch will dangle rather unaesthetically, so do not rush. Do everything carefully.
5. Connect the wires, connecting them according to the markings you made earlier. On some switches, the contact designation may be indicated on the back cover: L And 1 , 2 , 3 . Here “L” is the contact for connecting the phase wire; 1, 2, 3 – outgoing contacts, which can also be marked with arrows.
Insert the wires one by one into the corresponding sockets on the switch, and fix the wires by firmly tightening the terminal screws. After you screw the wires, try to lightly pull the wire to check that it is securely fastened. If the wire comes out of the terminal, tighten the screw more next time.
If your new switch is equipped with self-clamping terminals for wires, which can be determined by the absence of screws for securing the wires, then all you need to do is insert the end of the conductor stripped of insulation into a special socket, and the wires will be fixed in such a terminal automatically.
6. Install the switch in place, simultaneously helping the wires to fit freely in the socket box. Align the switch and fix it using the sliding tabs (alternately tightening the fixing screws of the tabs clockwise), or screw it to the socket box with screws (if the socket box has holes for screws).
When installing, keep in mind that according to the rules of ergonomics, turning on the light with switches located at head level is done by pressing the upper part of the switch key (up - turning on the light).
Well, those switches that are installed at waist level, on the contrary, turn on the light by pressing the lower part of the key (down - turn on the light).
After securely fixing the switch in the socket box, all you have to do is install and fix the decorative frame, then place the switch key(s) inside the frame and place it(es) in place, pressing gently.
7. Turn on the switch on the distribution panel and enjoy the work you have done!
It must be said that if you still mixed up or did not mark the wires (if there are more than two), then you will need to find the phase wire. To do this, separate the bare ends of the wires so that they do not touch each other and the wall so that they can be safely touched with an indicator screwdriver. Turn on the electricity using the switch that you previously turned off.
Touch each wire one by one with the tip of the indicator screwdriver (do not forget to keep one finger of your hand on the contact pad of the indicator screwdriver at all times) and find the phase wire. When you touch this wire, the indicator light should light up. Label this wire. Then turn off the power again.
The marked wire will subsequently need to be connected to that part of the switch where there is an input for only one wire (sometimes on the back cover this input is indicated by the letter L).
If none of the wires turned out to be phase, or more than one wire causes the indicator to glow, then in this case, to determine correct option When connecting, it would be better for you to use the help of an electrician.
Dimmers
It would not be superfluous to say a few words in this article about installing dimmers.
A dimmer (dimmer) is an electronic device designed to regulate the power of electric current. Typically, a dimmer is used to adjust the brightness of incandescent lamps.
The dimmer is installed in the socket box in the same way as a regular light switch. A regular monoblock dimmer is connected in the same way as a regular light switch: with two wires.
Depending on the design, dimmers are:
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How to replace an old switch with a new one - instructions
Most often, situations arise when it is necessary to replace a switch that has outlived its useful life with a device purchased in a store. In addition, most breakdowns lead to the described process. And it begins with dismantling the old device.
When getting started, remember how the switch works. Here is a visual drawing.
How to remove the switch
First you need to arm yourself with a screwdriver.
An indicator is best suited for these purposes. This tool has a small tip that is suitable for any bolt head, both with a cross groove and a regular slotted one.
In addition, if necessary, you can immediately check whether there is electric current in contact. To do this, you need to touch the head of the live screw with the tip of the screwdriver, while simultaneously placing your finger on the rear end (end) of the indicator. The LED light inside the tool handle should light up.
If you don’t have such a probe, an ordinary screwdriver with a replaceable tip will do, one in which the iron tip is pulled out of the handle and rearranged the other way around.
It’s just that different switches have different bolts - both for a Phillips screwdriver and a slotted one. And since the heads of such screws are initially hidden, it is not known in advance what type of groove it is.
- Suppose we have an old Soviet-type device in front of us. First, unscrew the bolt with which the front panel of such a switch is attached to its base.
- Next, remove this cover. All the insides are revealed to us: one, two or three keys, as well as the mechanism itself. But this applies to old, Soviet devices. U modern devices You must first “squeeze” the keys with a flat screwdriver and remove them.
And then you also need to carefully remove the front panel, helping from the side with a screwdriver.
- Finally, you need to remove the inside of the device from its socket. For all types of switches this stage is the same. There are two bolts on the sides; they attract antennae that press the device to the walls of the nest. These are the screws that need to be loosened.
- We pull the inside out, but without force, without pulling. Now we can see the electrical wires that are connected to our device.
- In many switches, the ends of the wiring are connected to the device itself using screw terminals. We loosen these nodes with a screwdriver and carefully pull out the wires.
Attention! Before manipulating directly with the wires, you must turn off the circuit breaker that supplies this electrical network to avoid electric shock! Usually the machine is located in a panel on the entrance platform; often it is intended specifically for lighting and is located among other similar ones. Although in Khrushchev apartment buildings, as a rule, there is only one for the entire apartment - both for lights and sockets.
Installing a new device
For this operation, you also need to prepare a screwdriver with a replaceable tip or a probe.
- First we turn off the machine in the panel.
- We are preparing a new switch. To do this, use a screwdriver to snap off the keys and take them out. Then unscrew the screw (if there is one) and remove the front panel.
- Before us is the inside of our newly acquired device. We insert the freed stripped ends of the wires into it and tighten the contacts with a screwdriver.
- We recess the mechanism in an old glass, align it with a level or a horizontally attached bottle of water.
- Then we screw in the bolts until they stop, which press the fastening antennae to the walls of the socket.
- Install the front panel and, if necessary, tighten the fastening screw.
- Carefully insert the keys.
The switch can be used.
In some modern devices described, the ends of the wires are secured without screw connections, simply inserted into special holes and fixed automatically. The wiring is removed back by pressing a special press with your finger.
The described installation work for a new device must always be carried out with the power supply turned off.
How to transfer - instructions
Suppose we are faced with a task of a different kind - for some reason, it is necessary to change the location of the device that activates the lighting in the room. Then, first of all, you need to think about the fact that in addition to a screwdriver, you will need some other tools.
First of all, this concerns wiring hidden in the wall. Relocating the switch here involves chiseling a channel for the cable and drilling a new socket for the device. Therefore, you will additionally need a hammer drill with a channel blade, as well as a concrete crown for the hammer drill. It will also be required new cable, two-core with a wire cross-section of 1.5 mm, as well as a stationery knife for removing insulation. Well, in the end, putty will be useful for sealing the channel. Let's make a list:
- perforator with blade and crown,
- cable 2x1.5 mm (meterage depending on transfer length),
- stationery knife,
- putty and putty trowel.
Having prepared everything you need, we begin the process.
- We remove the switch according to the previously described algorithm.
- We mark the new location that we have planned for our device, and also draw a cable line along the shortest path. For these purposes we use a simple pencil.
- Using a hammer drill, we make a channel for the wires.
- Drill out the socket for the switch.
- We take out the glass under our device from the old place and insert it into the new one.
- We connect a new cable to the freed ends of the old wires, while the machine must be turned off.
Here it is necessary to take into account that one supply phase wire from the panel always approaches the switch, and the same one goes out to the lamps. Therefore it is necessary to power line connect the brown wire, and the blue wire to the line of lamps, so as not to get confused.
- We lay the cable in the made channel. Cover with putty.
- We install the switch according to the previously described algorithm.
When connecting the device to a new location, we use the brown wire as the input wire, and the blue wire as the output wire.
In the case of open wiring everything is much simpler: after disconnecting the power supply, the switch is unscrewed from the wall, disconnected from the cable and attached in another place. Then the missing cores are carried out. The cable is usually hidden in a decorative box. At the end of the process, the wires are connected to the switch.
Switch repair
Much more often than transfers, situations occur when you simply need to repair the device being described. To repair a switch, you need to prepare all the accessories that will be useful in the work.
What tools and materials will be required
- Screwdriver with replaceable tip.
- Indicator.
- A piece of fine-grit sandpaper.
These tools are suitable for all types of repairs.
How to disassemble
It has already been described that when dismantling the device, its keys are first removed. Then the front panel is removed. When the device is removed from the socket, it is freed from the wires.
After the mechanism has been disassembled in this way and simultaneously removed, it must be placed in front of you on the table and examined. Usually the contacts that are located in the place where the plastic keys were become dirty. Due to frequent inclusions, these surfaces are also covered with soot.
It is not difficult to determine the nature of such a malfunction. You can understand that contact cleaning is necessary even before disassembling the device. If, when you turn on the keys, the device does not always work, then the appearance of carbon deposits in the corresponding places is quite obvious.
Cleaning contacts
It is not always possible to carry out this process. Most modern switches The mechanism body is non-separable and it is not possible to reach the contact. In such cases, it is easier to purchase a new switch, especially since it is inexpensive: about 50 rubles.
If, when examining the device, it became clear that the point of contact of the switching contacts can be reached with the tip of a screwdriver, then we do the following. For this operation, take a piece of sandpaper and wrap it around the tip of a small thin screwdriver. Having inserted the tool under the key, we wipe the copper contact with sandpaper.
Even if there is no sandpaper, you can clean the copper contact surface with a screwdriver, making translational movements with the tool. A sharp tip will easily remove dirt and carbon deposits.
Other possible breakdowns and solutions
Another common problem that often occurs is loosening of the wire end clamp. This can be easily diagnosed by the behavior of the switch. It completely stops performing its function, although the keys move and click as usual.
Here it is enough to remove the device outward (after detaching the buttons and the front panel), and then simply tighten the screws connected to the wire contacts with a screwdriver. This operation must be performed with the linear power supply switched off! When tightening the screw, lightly press the wire into the mechanism with your free hand.
Sometimes the following malfunction occurs: one of the keys stops clicking. When you touch it with your fingers, you feel an unusual “relaxation”. The mechanism is clearly broken here. IN in this case The switch needs to be completely replaced. In such devices, repairing the mechanism located under the key is practically impossible, and even impractical.
How to assemble
To assemble the device, we simply install the mechanism with well-secured wire contacts back into the socket. Then insert the front plastic panel. Finally we put on the keys. The switch is ready. Now you can activate the machine in the dashboard and make sure proper operation our node.
If no manipulations lead to the desired effect, then it is better to go to the store and purchase a new switch. And then replace the broken one, following the instructions described.
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Dismantling
To install a new switch, you will first need to remove the old one. And here is the first and main rule for a non-professional electrician...
That is, the first thing you need to do is turn off the power supply. To do this, we go to the corridor or apartment panel and, depending on the type of protection, unscrew the plugs or turn off the automatic fuses. Don't forget to check the switch later, in case it was connected to a completely different line! And also, if we are talking about a corridor panel, it is highly advisable that someone monitor it during the work to avoid accidental switching on. After this you can start withdrawing.
Here again we have two options - an old or new type switch. In the case of the first, you should first unscrew a couple of bolts holding the outer cover. For new devices, we simply pry the button to the side with the tip of a flat-head screwdriver and remove it, and then unscrew the safety cover or snap out the spring-clamp.
Further, the design of the mechanisms is basically the same type. In the wall, or if according to the rules, then in the dielectric socket box it is held in place using spacer tabs on screws. And to free it you need to loosen these same screws. After the mechanism is removed from the “socket,” you can loosen the wire clamps and move the old switch to the side.
Installation
If this is a single-key switch and it doesn’t matter to you which way it turns on and off, then you can start installing a new one. Otherwise it will take a little more time. Part of it will be spent straightening and stripping the ends of the wires to a length of approximately 1 cm. Then we move them apart and turn on the panel to determine the phase wire - we bring the indicator tip in turn to all ends, and where it lights up, there is a phase. We mark it, for example, with a piece of colored electrical tape. We need this to properly connect the new light switch. Turn off the power again and start connecting:
- A single-key switch has the usual socket markings “L-1” or “1-2”. L in the first case and “1” in the second are for the phase wire
- The two-key one also has “L-1-2” or “1-2-3”, where L for the first and 1 for the second case go under the phase
Soviet and bad Chinese switches have no markings at all, so you will have to experiment here, connecting and disconnecting the power and changing wires to find the correct location.
When you have decided on the neutral phase, firmly clamp the wires in the contacts in accordance with the selected circuit. In this case, you need to ensure that the bare part of the wire extends from the contact by no more than 2 mm (we cut it if necessary), and also that the insulation does not get under the clamp. Next we go to reverse order:
— insert the new mechanism into the socket box, carefully straightening the wires inside;
— align it horizontally and fix it with spacer pads;
— put on the main cover, snap or tighten the external clamps;
- Reinstall the key.
After that, apply voltage and use it for your pleasure.
