If you’ve ever experienced the convenience of a smart light switch, you know how it can make your life easier. With just a tap on your smartphone, you can control your lights from anywhere, set schedules, and even dim them to set the mood. But what if you want to go back to a traditional light switch? Maybe you don’t want to rely on Wi-Fi, or you’re looking to sell your house and want to leave the smart devices behind. Whatever the reason may be, in this guide, we’ll show you how to make a smart light switch dumb in a few simple steps.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the process, here are a few things you’ll need to get started:
- A smart light switch
- A traditional light switch
- A screwdriver
- Electrical tape
- Wire strippers (optional)
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Before starting any electrical work, it’s crucial to turn off the power to the light switch you’ll be working on. Locate your circuit breaker and flip the switch for the room or area where your light switch is located. You can also use a voltage tester to double-check that there is no power flowing to the switch.
Step 2: Remove the Smart Light Switch
Once the power is off, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the smart light switch in place. Carefully pull it out of the wall, being mindful of any wires attached to it.
Step 3: Disconnect the Wires
Now that you have the smart light switch removed, you’ll need to disconnect the wires from it. Most smart switches will have three wires: black (live), white (neutral), and green (ground). If your smart switch has an additional wire, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct way to disconnect it. Use wire strippers (or scissors) to remove the insulation from the ends of the wires.
Step 4: Replace with Traditional Light Switch
Take your traditional light switch and connect the wires in the same way they were connected to the smart switch. Typically, the black wire (live) will connect to the top screw, the white wire (neutral) to the bottom screw, and the green wire (ground) to the green screw. Again, if your traditional switch has additional wires, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Once everything is connected, put the switch back into the wall and secure it with the screws.
Step 5: Cover Any Exposed Wires
If your smart light switch was larger than the traditional switch, you may have exposed wires that were previously hidden. To avoid any safety hazards, use electrical tape to cover them up.
Step 6: Turn the Power Back On
Once the switch is securely in place, it’s time to turn the power back on. Head back to your circuit breaker and flip the switch for the room or area where the switch is located. Use your voltage tester to ensure the power is flowing again.
FAQs
Q: Can I convert a smart dimmer switch to a traditional light switch?
A: Yes, the process is similar to converting a regular smart light switch as outlined above. Make sure to turn off the power and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper disconnection and re-wiring.
Q: Why would I want to make a smart light switch dumb?
A: Some people may prefer traditional light switches as they don’t rely on an internet connection and are less expensive. Others may want to remove smart devices when moving out of a house.
Q: Can I use this method to convert any smart switch to a traditional switch?
A: No, this method is only applicable for converting smart switches that operate with a live, neutral, and ground wire. If your smart switch has additional wires, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper conversion.
Q: Will converting a smart light switch to a traditional one void the warranty?
A: It depends on the manufacturer and their warranty policy. Make sure to check the warranty information before attempting to convert a smart switch.
Q: Can I use a traditional switch again if I change my mind?
A: Yes, you can easily re-install a traditional switch, as long as it is the same size and type as the one you removed.