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January 26, 2026 - rewiring a improperly installed light switch in the dentist office
by David Berquist
💡 TLDW (Too Long; Didn't Watch)
How to safely rewire an improperly installed light switch with code violations
by David Berquist
How to safely rewire an improperly installed light switch with code violations
Learn how to properly rewire a light switch that was installed incorrectly. This tutorial covers identifying code violations, safely handling electrical wires, and properly connecting a new switch with both backstab and screw connections.
Examine the existing switch for damage and code violations such as two wires on a single screw.
Ensure the circuit power is off before removing any wires from the old switch.
Unscrew the broken switch from the wall and carefully pull it out of the electrical box.
Use wire cutters to ensure all wire ends are even and clean for proper connection.
Hook the wire around the screw in the direction the screw turns, then tighten securely.
Place one black wire on the screw terminal and backstab the other wire into the hole on the switch.
Push the switch back into the electrical box, using washers to shim it out if needed to sit flush against the wall.
Screw on the cover plate. If the box is crooked, consider using a metal cover for extra stability.