How to Fix That One Light Switch In Your House That Never Works Right

Having a light switch that doesn't work properly can be frustrating and inconvenient. With some troubleshooting and a few simple tools, you can likely fix that pesky switch yourself. Here's how to diagnose and repair the most common issues with light switches that aren't working right:

Inspect the Light Switch

The first step is to remove the light switch cover plate and inspect the switch itself. Look for any signs of damage, burning, or discoloration. Also check for:

• Loose screws - Tighten any loose screw terminals on the switch. This can fix loss of contact issues.

• Burned contacts - If the contacts are burned or corroded, the switch needs to be replaced.

• Cracked casing - Cracks in the switch casing indicate it's time to replace it.

If the switch looks damaged or defective, it will need to be replaced. If it looks okay, move on to checking connections.

Check Connections

With the power off, check that all of the wires are making proper contact. Here's what to look for:

• Loose wires - Tighten any loose wire connections on the switch and outlet.

• Wire nut issues - Make sure wire nuts are tight and making good contact with the wires.

• Backstab connections - Push wires firmly into any backstab connections on the switch to ensure a tight fit.

• Burned/damaged wires - Any burned or cracked wires will need to be trimmed and reconnected.

Checking these connections can often resolve intermittent switch operation. Tightening everything may be all that's needed.

Test the Switch

If you've tightened everything and the connections look good, turn the power back on and test the light switch:

• Does the light turn on and off correctly?

• Is there any flickering or intermittent operation?

• Does the switch feel loose or disconnected when you toggle it?

If you find any of those issues, it likely indicates a problem with the switch itself. At that point, replacement is the next step.

Replace the Light Switch

If you determine the switch itself is defective, it's a simple matter to replace it:

1. Turn off power to the switch at the breaker box.

2. Remove the cover plate screws and take off the cover plate.

3. Unscrew the switch and carefully pull it out from the electrical box while not letting any wires get loose.

4. Disconnect the wires from the defective switch.

5. Connect the wires to the replacement switch in the same configuration. Make sure the connections are tight.

6. Carefully tuck the wires into the box and mount the new switch.

7. Replace the cover plate.

8. Turn power back on and test operation of the new switch.

Replacing a switch yourself takes just basic hand tools and a few minutes. If the new switch doesn't fix the problem, there may be larger electrical issues that require an electrician. But often, that wonky light switch just needs some minor TLC to get back to working order.