
Step 7: Connect the wires on your smart light switch to the wires inside your wall.Ĭonnect the in wire to the in wire, the out wire to the out wire, the ground wire to the ground wire, and the neutral wire to the neutral wire. If they’re unlabeled, grab some different colors of electrical tape and label them as you go. Take note of which wire is which as you disconnect them to avoid confusion later. Disconnect the old light switch completely by disconnecting each wire one by one. Therefore, the instructions moving forward will assume a single-gang smart light switch with a neutral wire, like Wemo’s smart light switch.Īgain, ensure the power is off at the breaker.

With two-gang switches, you can run into traveler wires and other unique situations. Once you familiarize yourself with your wiring setup, choose a smart light switch that fits your situation. For instance, the Lutron P-PKG1W-WH-R Smart Lighting Dimmer Switch will work without a neutral wire, but it does require its own bridge.
#Smart wall sconce install#
If you don’t have a neutral wire, you can still install many smart light switches, but you’ll need to purchase a specific type of smart light switch that doesn’t require a neutral wire. Typically, the neutral wire is a white wire (or group of white wires). Most homes have the in, out, and ground wires, but some homes built before the 1980s don’t have neutral wires. Most smart light switches require a ground wire, an “in” wire, an “out” wire, and a neutral wire. Then unscrew the screws on the actual light switch and gently pull the switch forward. Use a butter knife or flat-head screwdriver to pry the plate off of the wall, as it can stick in place (often because of paint). To open up the switch, unscrew the screws on the wall plate (they’re usually located on the top and bottom of the plate). Step 3: Open up the existing switch where you want to install your smart switch. If you have a non-contact voltage tester, you won’t have to mess around with leads and wires. If you’re not sure what electrical circuit your lights belong to, it’s not a bad idea to grab a voltage meter (if you don’t already own one). Turn off the power at the fuse box to avoid the risk of electrocution or shock. Step 2: Start process to find out what type of wiring you have. If it has three switches, you’ll need a three-gang switch. If it has two switches (maybe one switch for a light and one for a ceiling fan), you’ll need a two-gang smart light switch.

If the wall panel only has one switch, you need a single-gang. Step 1: Learn your existing wall switch setup.īefore you purchase a smart light switch, you’ll need to figure out the type of switch you need. If you’re ready to tackle this weekend project, you’re going to want to take a look at this how-to guide, which will make installing your new smart light switch as easy as possible. Depending on your home’s electrical, the installation process for a smart light switch can get a little tricky at points, but most people with DIY skills can take on the task. In our opinion, you can do it yourself if you’re relatively handy. Fitbit Versa 3Īnd don’t worry – installing a smart light switch doesn’t necessarily require a phone call to your electrician.
