Assuming it is a steel box. With the power coming to the switch and then going to the lights you will notice that there are two black wires two white wires and two ground wires bare wires.

Swap Out Those Old Crappy 3 Way Light Switches For Good Cnet
Installing a light switch wiring diagram. First of all we should connect the ground wires to the box. The task of installing additional wiring for a light switch and new light fixture will depend on available access to the proposed location. Smart light switch designs can vary but dont be afraid if they look different from. You will need a three way dimmer and a three way switch. But while youre at it to make your home safer you should upgrade the wiring to meet the latest requirements of the national electrical code. With a three way dimmer you can control a light with two switches.
This lets you dim from one location and turn the lights on and off from another. This light switch wiring diagram page will help you to master one of the most basic do it yourself projects around your house. To learn more. If youre ever unsure about wiring a device please consult an electrician. This site is merely. If the light switch has a ground screw on it usually green and at the bottom of the switch connect it now.
The hot and neutral terminals on each fixture are spliced with a pigtail to the circuit wires which then continue on to the next light. Multiple light wiring diagram. Wiring a single pole light switch. Although plug in connections may be more convenient they are less reliable than those with screw terminals so dont use them. It doesnt take long to replace an ordinary light switch with full feature dimmable switches. The electrical system consists of the line from the pole a meter where electrical usage is tallied a main circuit breaker panel sometimes called load centers and in older homes fuse.
Watch this video to learn how to install the 1451 decora 5601 and renu re151 single pole switches. With a standard single pole dimmer a single switch controls the light. Read the smart light switchs instruction manual thoroughly to ensure you understand its wiring and setup. Hiring a qualified electrician will ensure that the installation is performed correctly where the existing circuit wires will be identified and new circuit wiring will be extended to the new light switch. If only one switch controls the light purchase a single pole dimmer. This diagram illustrates wiring for one switch to control 2 or more lights.
Hey doing it yourself is great but if you are unsure of the advice given or the methods in which to job is done dont do it. Most modern switches have screw terminals on each side and may also have holes in the back to accept the end of the wire. If a light switch fails to function it should be replaced. The source is at sw1 and 2 wire cable runs from there to the fixtures.