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Electrical Wire and Cable


Replacing a Faulty Dimmer Switch

I’m having a problem with a light switch, which is a dimmer, the switch has stopped working, and now neither plug in the outlet works either…


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Dimmer Switch Diagnosis and Replacement
[ad#block]Question: I’m having a problem with a light switch, which is a dimmer. It’s also connected to an outlet in the room. The switch has stopped working, and now neither plug in the outlet works either. Previously, one was controlled by the switch, but both were not. Any idea if this could be an easy problem to fix (new light switch? new outlet?) or if this is definitely a job for an electrician?

Slightly more info: I’m told the light flickered a few minutes before it went out. And yes, I have turned breaker on/off. There are also two other light switches in the group, but both of those work, so I’m guessing they’re wired independently.

Thanks for any help/suggestions

This electrical question came from: Mark, a Homeowner from Columbia, Maryland.
See more about Home Wiring for Maryland

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Mark.

Replacing Dimmer Switches

Mark, from what you have describer the dimmer switch may need to be replaced. There are a few tests that a qualified electrician can perform to positively isolate the problem and make the necessary repairs. The replacement dimmer switch will need to be sized according to the lighting loads that it will be controlling. If the dimmer switch is controlling a wall outlet, then only dimmer compatible lighting fixtures should be plugged into the outlet.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:
Electrical Outlet Wiring
outlet-wiring

Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home

Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.

How to Wire a Switch
electrical-switches

Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1

Wiring Diagrams

Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures assist your Home Electrical Projects.

Wiring a Dimmer Switch
wiring-a-dimmer-switch

3 Way Dimmer Switch Wiring Diagram

Fully explained 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagram will take the mystery out of wiring a 3-way dimmer switch.
Using Testers to Identify Electrical Problems
digital-tester

Testers to Help Solve Electrical Problems

Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Types of Electrical Testers

Using Electrical Testers


The following may also be helpful for you:

Dave's Guide to Home Electrical Wiring:

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Here's How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book

Great for any Home Wiring Project.
  electrical wiring  

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students,
Handyman, Handy Women, and Electricians
Includes:
Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Home Electric Circuits
120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits
Wiring Light Switches
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.


Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
with my Online Video Course:
Basic Home Electrical Wiring by Example


Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

Electrical Tips to Help You Wire it Right

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!

The Plug-In Outlet Tester
This is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.

Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!

The Wire Stripper and Wire Cutter
My absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets..

The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use.


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