How To Install An Outdoor Light Switch

Installing an outdoor light switch is a relatively easy task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these simple steps, you can safely and correctly install an outdoor light switch.

Safety Precautions

Before you begin, it is important to take some basic safety precautions. Make sure that the power to the circuit you will be working on is turned off at the breaker panel. Also, wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential hazards.

Tools and Materials

You will need the following tools and materials to install an outdoor light switch:

Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Wire strippers
Electrical tape
Outdoor light switch
Electrical box
Wire nuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Turn off the power. Before you begin, make sure that the power to the circuit you will be working on is turned off at the breaker panel.
Remove the old switch. If there is an existing light switch, remove it by unscrewing the faceplate and then removing the screws that hold the switch in place. Pull the switch out of the electrical box.
Install the electrical box. If you are installing a new light switch, you will need to install an electrical box. Use the screws that came with the box to secure it to the wall.
Connect the wires. Connect the black wire from the light fixture to the black terminal on the switch. Connect the white wire from the light fixture to the white terminal on the switch. Connect the green or bare copper wire from the light fixture to the green terminal on the switch.
Secure the switch. Push the switch into the electrical box and secure it with the screws that came with the switch.
Install the faceplate. Install the faceplate over the switch and secure it with the screws that came with the faceplate.
Turn on the power. Turn on the power at the breaker panel and test the switch to make sure it is working properly.

Tips

If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to hire a qualified electrician to install the light switch for you.
Make sure that the electrical box is properly secured to the wall before you connect the wires.
Use wire nuts to connect the wires together. Make sure that the wire nuts are tight and secure.
Test the switch to make sure it is working properly before you turn on the power at the breaker panel.