Instructions on how to Replace a
Pull Chain Light Switch Fixture
By Mark J. Donovan
If you have a pull chain light switch
fixture in your basement, garage or attic, more than likely you will eventually
pull the pull string off of it, or it will at some point no longer work.
Overtime the pull chain/string assembly mechanism either separates from the
light switch fixture or the rotary mechanism fails to operate correctly.
To replace a pull chain light switch
fixture first start by purchasing a replacement one at any home improvement
store. They are relatively inexpensive. A good porcelain type will cost in the 3
to 5 dollar range.
Once you have purchased the replacement pull chain light switch
fixture, turn off power to the light fixture at the main circuit breaker
panel or fuse box. Confirm with a voltmeter or a simple neon electrical
tester. Note that it is best to use only one
hand when turning on and off the circuit breaker. Your other hand
should not be touching the circuit panel or anything that could come in
contact with the ground.
Make sure
you let everyone in the home know that you are working on the switch
fixture and that for no reason should they turn power back on at the
main circuit panel or fuse box.
You
may also consider putting a piece of tape over the circuit breaker and label
it “DO NOT TURN ON”.
Next,
using your screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the pull chain light
switch fixture to the ceiling or electrical box.
Now
pull the pull chain light switch fixture out from the electrical box a few
inches.
Label
each wire with a piece of tape indicating which wire attaches to which of
the two screws on the back of the light switch.
Using
your screwdriver and/or needle nose pliers remove the wires from the light
switch.
Find a Qualified Residential Electrical Contractor in Your Area
Get Free Quotes. Easy, Quick and No
Obligations!
For the home improvement or home remodeling project that is
too big for you, check out our partner
NeedContractor. They are a national
resource for finding pre-screened, insured, and licensed home improvement and remodeling contractors in your local area.
Get Matched in 48 hours with Residential
Electrical
Contractors!
Install the new pull chain light switch fixture, making sure to attach the
wires back according to the labels you made earlier.
Push
the newly wired switch into the electrical box and attach it with the two
mounting screws.
Next,
attach the pull string cord to the chain assembly that hangs an inch or so
below the light fixture. Usually a pair of needle nose pliers helps in this
process.
Screw
in a light bulb into the light switch fixture, and turn the power back on to
it at the main circuit breaker panel or fuse box.
Pull
on the pull string / chain assembly to toggle the light and to confirm that
the light indeed turns on and off properly.
For
information on Changing a standard Light Switch, See HomeAdditionPlus.com's "How
to Change a Light Switch Ebook".
It provides detailed, easy to understand, step-by-step instructions and
pictures, on how to replace a standard light switch.
For
information on refinishing Brass Exterior Light Fixtures, See
HomeAdditionPlus.com's "Refinishing
Brass exterior Light Fixtures Ebook". If you are are tired of
looking at those dull and faded brass exterior light fixtures on the outside
of your home, and want to do something about it this Ebook provides
detailed, easy to understand, step-by-step instructions and pictures, on how
to make them look like new.
How to Finance your Home Electrical Project -
can help provide funds for your new home improvement project if financing is
required.
Additional Home Electrical Wiring Resources
Electrical Wiring, Lighting and Ceiling Fans from Amazon.com
Electrical
Contractor Price Quotes For FREE,
No Obligation!
Fill out our 3-5 minute quick and easy form, and receive a free price quote
on residential electrical work from one of our prescreened and licensed
electrical contractors. This process is free and there is no obligation to
continue once you receive your electrical contractor price estimate.
