Installing a dimmer switch is a relatively simple and inexpensive home improvement project. Apart from the ambiance they provide they can also help to conserve energy. I pretty much believe that all over head lighting in a home should be on a dimmer. Mood lighting is just so key!
I recently replaced a few switches in my home courtesy of Legrand, one of the HGTV Smart Home sponsors. And today I’m going to walk you through the easy step-by-step installation process.
I promise you this is not a difficult diy project. The basic truth is, if I can do it, a monkey can. Seriously. This is a perfect little weekend diy as installation is under 30 minutes from start to finish. So let’s get started!
Important Background Information
I’m not an electrician, but over the years of dabbling in home improvement projects I’ve learned a thing a two.
You’ll want to start by checking to see if the switch you want to replace is a single pole (one switch operates the fixture) or a three way (can be turned on/off from two locations). This will often determine the type of switch you need to purchase. The Whisper switches from the Adorne Collection can be used for one pole or 3 way installations.
(Legrand Adorne Collection Whisper Light Switch, Whisper Dimmer Switch)
Tools Needed
You won’t need much.
- Screwdriver
- Wire Strippers
- Voltage Detector (Not necessarily needed, but a good safety recommendation.)
Installation Process
Always start any electrical work by turning the power off at the breaker. You can even go the extra step of using a voltage detector after you’ve turned the power off to be extra safe.
Removing the old switches
After unscrewing the switch from the wall before disconnecting the wires, you’ll want to take a good look at how things are connected in order to identify the wires. A single pole switch will have three wires connected to it, and a three way will have four. Both will have a ground wire that will be easily identifiable as it will be copper and connected to the green screw. Apart from identifying the ground wire, you’ll also want to note which wire is the hot wire. The hot wire is typically wired to the bottom right screw. On a three way switch the hot wire will be connected to the odd ball colored screw.
Connecting the New Switches
With the hot wire labeled, installation of a new switch is a breeze. Legrand’s Adorne Collection switches are slightly different from typical switches as the ground wire is connected to the plate rather than the switch. Also their wall plates are screw-less, so the switches are attached to a back plate which allows the front wall plate to snap into place. It’s an easy, seamless design, and if you’re new to installing a Legrand product you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the very detailed and super easy to follow instructions that accompany their products.
* You may need to use your wire strippers to expose a bit more of the ground wire from the plate before connecting.
Once the ground wires are connected and capped and pushed back into the box, you can connect the remaining wires. Legrand makes it really easy to know exactly where to connect each wire as the back of their switches are clearly labeled. If using a standard style switch you’ll connect the wires to the new switch in the same way they had been connected to the old switch.
Once your switches are connected you’re ready to put your wall plate in place. With Legrand your plate will just snap right into place. No screwdriver necessary!
Before and After
Changing the light switches in my entry foyer has been on my to-do list since I wallpapered the walls in here. While Legrand makes a customizable wall plate that is perfect for wallpapered rooms, I decided instead to go with the Ashen Tan wall plate. I’m really happy with the new look, and I think it blends in really well.
I’m a big fan of the more modern look of these switches and plates. And I’m glad to finally have my entry foyer light and exterior porch light now on a dimmer!
I hope you found this how-to post helpful! I promise you will never regret installing a dimmer switch!
*Thanks very much to Legrand for sponsoring this post! All opinions and thoughts as always are 100% genuine. I only collaborate with brands I trust and believe in.
I know I could this. Thank you