9/17/2023 0 Comments Replacing light switch![]() ![]() Light switches don’t necessarily wear out due to age because the internal springs are not under constant pressure. ![]() So, how long do should light switches last, and how often should you replace one?Ī light switch can last for 20 years or more. However, they can still last many years due to their simplistic design. ![]() Light switches do wear out with repeated use. However, when it comes to lights, one of the overlooked components are light switches. Often when lights don’t work, it’s simply a blown light bulb. Typically, licensed electricians charge $50 – $100 per hour, but some require a minimum price to make a service call.Īll pricing information on this page is based on average industry costs, and is subject to variance for project-specific materials, labor rates, and requirements.As homeowners, when we walk into a room and turn on the light switch, we assume the lights will work. If you choose to hire a professional, you should get three or more estimates, compare their statements of work to ensure they cover everything you need to get done, check references, liability insurance, and give everyone fair consideration. An experienced electrician might cost a little more initially, but they will complete the work quicker and safer. Outdated wiring might not handle the load of increased current, which could cause a fire. Therefore, many dimmers will not function unless the LED light bulb is specifically made to dim.Īlthough you may be able to find a self-help book or DIY video on the internet to move or replace a switch, some variables could make it dangerous. However, if you choose LED lights on a dimmer, make sure the bulbs are the type that will dim. With these, you can control your lights from a smartphone or tablet, and even voice commands with smart listening devices. You can get a smart light switch for $50 – $100 and get it installed for the price of a standard service call fee if there are no complications. Try our watts to amps calculator to compare the current on your lighting circuit to the wattage rating of the dimmer.Īn electrician might suggest upgrading the wiring to meet current municipal codes depending on the dimmer and number and type of lights. There are high-current dimmers available, but the selection is more limited, and the cost is higher. Check the number of fixtures and the current on your lighting circuit to ensure you can use a dimmer. For example, if you want to be able to control the brightness from two locations, you will need a three/four-way switch.ĭimmers are also often rated for less wattage than a typical switch. Although these dimmers are typically inexpensive, your home’s current wiring might need an upgrade, which will make it more expensive. Upgrading any light switch to include a dimmer allows the user to brighten or dim the lights depending on their needs. Four-way switches cost $10 – $25 and can control a fixture from three places.ĭimmers: How They Work & How Much They Cost The three-way switch can control one fixture, but from two locations such as at the top and bottom of the stairs and costs $3 – $15. Merely replacing a light switch because it’s broken usually costs less than $100, depending on the electrician’s minimum service charge, which typically gets rolled into the cost of the switch. The cost to the switch is typically minimal, often $10 – $20, but could be as much as $200 for a smart switch or specialty dimmer. Check our drywall repair cost guide for more information. When an electrician must cut a hole for a light switch where there wasn’t one previously, it might require repairs to drywall or sheetrock and wall coverings. The average cost of moving a switch is $100 – $200. Whether you’re moving a switch for recessed lights or adding a new switch for a ceiling fan, you’ll want to explore the factors that impact the cost of the project below. These inspections are necessary to ensure the work got completed to code, and to prevent fires, electrocution, and other hazards. Before starting work, check with the building inspector’s office to find out if a permit is required and schedule an after-installation inspection. ![]()
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