Problems with light switches are normally easy to figure out. Be safe turn off the circuit breaker!

Burned-Out Fuses and Tripped Circuit Breakers

A tripped circuit breaker or burned-out fuse might make you erroneously feel that something is wrong with your light switches. Prior to deciding to automatically head to the store for that replacement switch, it is best to first check out your fuse or circuit breaker box. If it is the spot that the problem lies, resetting the breaker or replacing the fuse should fix the problem with the light switches. However, should you experience the problem frequently, it is usually a signal the circuit breaker or fuse has too much of a load. If this sounds like the problem, it is best to contact an electrical contractor.

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Light Switches That Are Broken

Just like any mechanical device, light switches can just break.

If you notice that flipping the switch down and up does not have any impact on the light fixture, or when it seems like the switch fails to hold it’s position properly, the switch probably just ought to be replaced. Although replacing light switches may seem like a simple task, it shouldn’t be attempted without any help if you don’t have a very good comfort level handling electricity. When performed improperly, a simple light switch replacement job could develop into a dangerous situation.

Glowing, Buzzing or Overheating

These highly visible indications of trouble light switches should be dealt with immediately.

 

When you have a common up and down light switch installed, it must never glow, buzz or generate a noticeable volume of heat. If it does, it may be a sign of an overloaded breaker or maybe a loose wire, which can be dangerous safety hazards. Make sure you call an electrical contractor immediately when these indications of trouble are first noticed. It’s important to be aware that a moderate degree of heat or a slight buzzing might be normal in the case of a dimmer switch. However, should you have any doubt, it is best to be safe instead of sorry, and simply call an electrical contractor to evaluate your situation.

When Lights Flicker

Even though it may be simple to simply attribute a flickering light to a loose bulb, it may also be the result of a loose or bare wire. If any flickering is observed, you’ll want to immediately try tightening the bulb to find out if it fixes things. If not, you should have the wiring below the cover or plate inspected to make sure that any problems can be properly handled. If allowed to continue, the outcome could be a fire.

If you are having problems with your light switches, it is a good idea to try to diagnose the problem. Here are some of the common problems that you might encounter with you have light switch problems.

By: Autumn Lockwood

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