Can you add an additional light switch?

Installing a second light switch to allow you to control lights from two locations is a project that almost anyone can complete successfully. The wiring is relatively straight forward, converting a single-pole light switch circuit to a 3-way light switch circuit.

Can you combine two light switches together?

How can I combine two wall switches into one? The most reliable way is to get a DPST, double pole single throw, switch. It will replace the two switches directly because each of it’s pole will act as if it were a single pole switch, regardless of load and specific circuitry.

How hard is it to add a light switch?

Whether you are installing a new light switch or replacing an existing light switch, it is not a difficult task and is easily accomplished by most homeowners. While there are a variety of switch types, such as 3-way switches, 4-way switches, timers, or dimmers, the same basic procedure is used for all of them.

How do I separate multiple lights on one switch?

2 Answers

Get a 2-gang box to replace your existing 1-gang box.
Get a new switch.
Remove your existing box and install the 2-gang box in its place.
Run your supply hot wire to both switches.
Connect the light/fan hot wire to one switch and the exterior light to the other.
Join all neutrals and ground wires.

How do you install a light switch in an existing wall?

Step 1: Trace Box. For your safety, turn off power before starting this project.
Step 2: Cut Hole. Cut the hole with a drywall saw.
Step 3: Thread Cables. Run cable through the hole.
Step 4: Insert Box. Push the box into the hole.
Step 5: Secure Box to Wall.

How do I add a second light switch?

How to Add a Second Light Switch Without Wiring

Unscrew the wall plate.
Unscrew the existing switch.
Mark the wires before you remove them.
Disconnect the wires from the current switch.
Connect wires to the corresponding parts of the Lutron switch.

How do you add a switch to a light?

Pull the switch box from the wall. Remove the screws holding the box and take it out of the wall. If the box is nailed in, loosen it by inserting a piece of wood inside the box and striking it with a hammer. Increase the size of the existing switch location to accommodate an additional switch onto the circuit.

How do you install a new light fixture?

At the switch location, a new double-gang box is installed to allow room for a second switch to control the new light. This arrangement will allow for controlling each light separately. The hot from the switch loop is spliced with a pigtail to both switches. New 2-wire cable is run from the switch box to the new light fixture location.

Can you wire another light to an existing light?

Connecting another light to an existing light and switch is an easy electrical wiring job. Since the existing light is already connected to the switch and you are not adding a light switch, most of the wiring you need will be present in the wall or ceiling.

How do you turn on a light in a box?

Not all electrical boxes with a light switch in them contain the necessary ground, hot and neutral conductors. To find out, first shut off the power to the switch at the main electrical panel. Then remove the switch cover, and hold the noncontact voltage detector against the wires attached to the switch.