![]() ![]() If your multimeter does not return the number “1,” you may have a malfunctioning light switch.Make sure to test both side terminals on a three-way switch. For a three-way switch, touch one pole to the common screw and one to a normal side terminal.For a single-pole switch, put one pole on each side terminal.Change your continuity tester to the “continuity” or “ohms” setting.Make sure to turn off the associated breaker first. Safely remove your light switch from the wall (if you haven’t already).Sometimes just installing a light switch replacement is the easiest way to deal with switch issues. If you have a voltage tester or multimeter on hand, testing your light switch before you put it back in place can save you a lot of trial and error. □ How To Test Your Light Switches With a Multimeter If it’s the circuit breaker then things can get a little more tricky. However, if you have a multimeter handy, you can test definitively whether the problem originates with the light switches or not. If the switch fails even after you do this, then you might need a new light switch. If you isolate the loose wiring to the switch itself, you should be able to fix it by turning off the power, removing the bad light switch, and checking each wire and terminal screw. If the breaker continues to trip, it could be a case of loose wiring, a bad switch, or live wires coming into contact with a neutral wire. If the light turns on, you’re home-free, but if the circuit breaker trips again, you might not be out of the woods yet. ✅ Flip the Breaker, Then Troubleshootįirst, flip your circuit breaker back to the “ON” position. Sometimes a tripped circuit breaker is a fluke, but other times, problems like bad switches, faulty electrical outlets, and short circuits can be the cause.Īs such, the solution involves a bit of troubleshooting, but anyone willing to do a little DIY can handle it themselves. The circuit breakers in your home function to protect you from dangerous electrical problems. If you notice issues with your light switch, feel free to try these troubleshooting tips. However, most solutions are very doable for the average DIY-er. If at any time you feel uncomfortable troubleshooting electrical problems, reach out to your local electrician. □ CAUTION: Working with electricity can be extremely dangerous. While a professional can certainly troubleshoot the issue for you, you may be able to repair or replace it yourself with a little trial-and-error. These could include a bad light switch, a problem with the light bulb connection, loose wires in the circuit or a bad light fixture. If that’s not the case, you have other issues. So the first thing to check is the breaker in your home’s electrical panel. If you have a light switch that isn’t working, it’s generally because there’s no power to the light circuit. ![]()
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