Please read the disclaimer before attempting any electrical work. If you are uncertain then contact a qualified electrician.

Information and diagrams below:

Step by step instructions on Changing a one gang one way light switch.

This is the most commonly used method of wiring a one way switch, they can appear difficult at first but if you take your time and study the pictures/diagram below, it should be pretty straight forward.

You will need a 1 way light switch for this, they can be identified by looking at the terminals on the back of the switch (a 2 way light switch will still work on a one way circuit as shown in our pictures below).

E.g. com (common) L1 terminal and L2 terminal.

One Way Switch	Two Way Switch

4 Diagrams - Click on the desired colours and difficulty to show diagram

Brown sleeving or tape would of been placed on the wires as shown to show the blue is live.

“There are other methods of wiring a one gang one way switch but this is the most common way and is the easiest by far” - Jamie Vernon of Online Electrical Services LTD.

Below there is 2 pictures shown. The reason being there is different cable colours and this is to be sure that your colour is listed here! (Only one of the pictures per stage will apply for you).

NEW COLOURS Your existing light switch should look like this. New colours have been used to show you for this example.     OLD COLOURS

Tips

If you are using metal/chrome/brass switches always make sure the switch is earthed.

Check if your lights have earths, if there are no earths in your switches or lights get in touch with a qualified electrician.

Always use insulated tools when working with electricity.

Take your time and double over your simple cables as good practice.

<<< BACK TO ELECTRICAL HELP INDEX