Testing A Wall Light Switch

Test the ground wires in the wall switch with a two lead circuit tester which has a red and a black lead running into black body with a small light.

Testing a wall light switch.

This type of tester has two lead wires that uses the battery voltage of the tester to test a circuit which in this example is the circuit components of a switch. A continuity tester can be used to test the light switch while the circuit is off or the switch has been removed. You also need a non contact voltage tester to check the switch and wires for power before touching them. Your switch may be attached to a frame by screws which you ll need to take out or it may just be sitting up against the wall.

How to troubleshoot light switches and replace it can be easy and d i y project. A three way light switch allows you to control a light at two different places. Pull the light switch from the wall. Once you ve confirmed that there s no electrical current in your switch you are ready to remove it.

Test the switch with a continuity tester. Testing a three way light switch. The problem is that the light in the tester acts as a bridge for the circuit when the switch is off. And for making the test you ll need either a continuity tester or a.

You ll need screwdrivers usually one flat head and one phillips for removing the switch and disconnecting the switch wires. They have two leads and a light the lights up when current is sensed. This video will show you how to check your light switch and how to replace a. This type will not work properly when used for a light switch.

Then flip the switch to the on position and touch both terminals with a probe from the tester. The switch is good if the continuity tester lights. The switch is composed of a hot wire and two traveler wires that are hooked into. The tester light should not come on.

Testing any type of light switch takes a few basic tools. Set the switch to the off position and touch both terminals on the side that held the wires.