Monday, October 19, 2009

Install A Light Dimmer On A Ceiling Fan

This dimmer switch has a small slider that is used to dim the light.








Installing a light dimmer on a ceiling fan is a great way to create ambiance in your home. Dimmers allow you to alter the brightness of a light by sliding a switch located on your wall. Dimmer switches are inexpensive and can be found at many home improvement stores. Dimmers also come in a variety of colors and designs that will match any home decor.


Instructions


Install the Dimmer Switch


1. Disconnect the power to the switch at the circuit breaker. Additionally, place a piece of masking tape over the switch to ensure no one turns the power back on.


2. Use the screwdriver to remove the face plate, and set both the face plate and the screw in a safe location.


3. Use the screwdriver to remove the two screws on the top and the bottom of the switch that hold it in place. Save those screws in a safe location as they will be used later.


4. Pull the switch out of the electrical box and disconnect the wiring.


5. Connect the color-coded wires from the dimmer switch to the wires in the wall. Black with black, white with white and ground with ground. Use the yellow wire caps to cover the exposed wires.


6. Use the screwdriver to reattach the new dimmer switch to the electrical box using the screws that were set aside.


7. Use the screwdriver to reattach the face plate that was set aside. Alternatively, the dimmer switch may require a different face plate. In this case, purchase a matching face plate and install it after the switch is in place.


8. Remove the masking tape and turn on the power.

Tags: face plate, dimmer switch, dimmer switch, masking tape, safe location