Installing a push-button switch is the same process as any standard switch—turn off power, remove the old switch, connect wires to the new switch, and secure in the box. If you've replaced a light switch before, you can do this. If you haven't, read through completely before deciding whether to DIY or call a pro.
Before You Begin
Installing electrical devices can be dangerous. Failure to follow these instructions could result in property damage, injury, or death. Turn off the power supply to the switch before installation and follow all local electrical codes and regulations. If you are unsure or uncomfortable about any part of the installation process, contact a licensed electrician for assistance.
- Always turn off power at the circuit breaker before starting
- Test with a voltage tester to confirm power is off
- Never work on live circuits
- When in doubt, call a professional
Technical specifications:
- Terminal Screw Torque: 14-18 inch lb.
- Wire Stripping Length: 3/4 inch
Tools and Materials Needed
Installation Process
Installation Steps
Turn off power to your switch
Locate the circuit breaker and turn off the power supply to the switch you'll be replacing. Test to confirm power to your switch is off using a non-contact voltage tester. Never work on live circuits.
Remove the old switch from the wall
Unscrew the wall plate and switch from the wall, and gently pull the switch from the box. Disconnect the wires from the terminals.
Connect your new push button switch
When working with wires, always create a round hook at the end of the exposed wire. With the hook facing clockwise, loop the wire around the terminal screw before tightening securely. Use 3/4 inch of stripped wire. Terminal screw torque should be 14-18 inch pounds.
Mount new switch and plate to the wall
With wires securely attached, place the switch into the electrical box and screw into place. Then position your push button wall plate and carefully tighten screws into threaded holes on switch bracket.
Restore power and test the switch
Restore power to the circuit and test your new push button switch. If it's working as expected, you're all set. The installation is complete.
Single-Pole Installation
Single-pole switches control a light from one location. This is the most common configuration. If the light is controlled by only one switch, it's a single pole switch.
Step 1: Turn Off Power
Locate the circuit breaker and turn off the power supply to the switch you'll be replacing. If breakers aren't labeled, you may need to test multiple breakers or turn off the main breaker.
Return to the switch and use a non-contact voltage tester to verify power is off. Test at the switch—don't assume the breaker label is correct.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Switch
Unscrew the wall plate and switch from the wall, and gently pull the switch from the box. Don't yank—there's limited wire length in the box.
Important: Take note of each wire and the terminal it was connected to by labeling each with a piece of tape. This makes reconnection much easier.
Disconnect the wires from the terminals by loosening the terminal screws. If wires are inserted into push-in connectors on the back, insert a small flathead screwdriver into the release slot while pulling the wire out.
Step 3: Connect the New Switch
When working with wires, always create a round hook at the end of the exposed wire. With the hook facing clockwise, loop the wire around the terminal screw before tightening securely.
Single Pole Wiring:
- Locate the exposed copper wire and connect to the green ground terminal
- Locate each black wire and connect to the black terminal and one brass terminal
Ensure you have 3/4" of stripped wire for proper connection. Terminal screw torque should be 14-18 inch pounds.
Give each wire a gentle tug to confirm it's secure.
Step 4: Mount Switch and Plate
With wires securely attached, place the switch into the electrical box and screw into place. Then position your push button wall plate and carefully tighten screws into threaded holes on switch bracket.
Important: To ensure the push buttons do not recess below the wall plate cover, do not overtighten the switch mounting screws.
Pro tip: For an elevated aesthetic, tighten both wall plate screws to run vertically instead of horizontally.
Step 5: Restore Power and Test
Restore power to the circuit and test your new push button switch. The light should turn on and off with each press. If it's working as expected, you're done.
Three-Way Installation
Three-way switches control a light from two locations (like both ends of a hallway or stairway). If the light is controlled by two switches, it's a three-way switch. The switch has three terminal screws plus ground.
Identifying the Wires
Three-way switches have one "common" terminal and two "traveler" terminals:
- Common terminal: The black terminal screw. This connects to either the power source or the light fixture.
- Traveler terminals: The two brass-colored screws. These connect the two three-way switches together.
- Ground: Green screw for the ground wire.
Critical: Identify the Common Wire
The most important step is identifying which wire was connected to the common (black) terminal screw on your old switch. This wire must connect to the black terminal screw on your new switch. The traveler wires can go to either brass terminal.
Before removing the old switch, mark the common wire with tape or note its position.
Three-Way Wiring Process
- Locate the exposed copper wire and connect to the green ground terminal
- Locate the "common" wire that was connected to the black terminal screw on your old switch—connect this wire to the black terminal screw
- Locate the two "traveler" wires and connect each to a brass terminal
- Mount the switch and wall plate (don't overtighten)
- Restore power and test from both switch locations
Choosing the Right Wall Plate
Push-button switches typically require wall plates with larger openings than standard toggle or rocker plates. Most push-button switch manufacturers offer matching plates designed specifically for their switches.
Consider these factors when selecting a wall plate:
- Opening size: Ensure the plate accommodates your switch's button configuration
- Finish: Match to your switch finish and other room hardware
- Gang configuration: Single, double, or triple gang as needed
Wallware offers wall plates designed to complement push-button switch installations.
Common Issues and Solutions
Switch Doesn't Work
- Verify power is on at the breaker
- Check that wires are securely connected to terminals
- For three-way switches, confirm the common wire is on the correct terminal
- Test the bulb in another fixture to rule out a burned-out bulb
Switch Buzzes or Hums
- Most common with dimmer switches and certain LED bulbs
- Try a different brand of LED bulb rated for dimming
- Ensure the dimmer is rated for your total bulb wattage
Switch Doesn't Fit in Box
- Some push-button switches have deeper bodies than standard switches
- Check switch depth specifications before purchasing
- A box extender may be needed for shallow boxes
When to Hire an Electrician
Consider hiring a licensed electrician if:
- Your home has aluminum wiring (requires special connectors)
- There's no ground wire in the box
- You see signs of damage, burning, or melting
- The wiring configuration doesn't match standard diagrams
- You're uncomfortable with any step of the process
- Your locality requires permits for electrical work
Related Resources
- How Push-Button Switches Work — Understand the mechanism you're installing
- Buying Guide — Make sure you have the right switch before starting
- LED Issues Troubleshooting — Solutions if your LEDs flicker or buzz
- Buzzing & Humming — Diagnose dimmer-related noise
- Design Ideas — Match your switches to your interior style