Now in many houses they initially install high-quality electrics, or during repairs they try to replace all elements of the electrical network, including switches. But there may also be a situation when you come home, flip the switch, and the light does not light up.
If the light bulb works in another place and there is electricity in the apartment, then the matter is most likely in the switch, and it will have to be disassembled.
This must be done, be sure to first turn off the electricity and check it on a lamp or lamp.
Now there are several types of switches, each of which has its own design and features. There are the following types of switches:
- Simple one and two-gang switches. The most common type of switches.
- Pass-through switches can turn on the light from several places. In appearance, they look like ordinary push-button switches.
- Dimmers are switches that allow you to adjust the brightness of lighting from dusk to bright light. Happen with microcontrollers or mechanical.
- Impulse switches are basically just buttons like doorbells. They are connected to an impulse relay.
- Touch switches - there are different types: acoustic (triggered by a sharp sound, for example, clapping hands), touch dimmers, with a remote control, radio switches, etc.
Since it is the key switches that are most common, we will consider their disassembly.
How to turn off the mains voltage
Before any electrical work, including the disassembly of the switch, it is necessary to turn off the voltage. As a rule, the electrical wiring in our apartments is divided into three groups: sockets, lighting and an output for an electric stove (if any). To disassemble the switch, it is necessary to de-energize the lighting group by turning off the corresponding machine on the switchboard. But many people have a question, what kind of machine is actually responsible for lighting? 
The photo shows an image of a modern shield, where the denominations of the machines are shown in close-up (16 Amperes on the right and 5 Amperes on the left). There is always less current flowing to the lighting wiring than to a group of outlets, therefore the nominal value of the machine for this group will be smaller - this should be guided by.
After turning off the machine, it is necessary to make sure that the voltage is turned off - for this, the lighting is turned on and if it is not there, then everything is done correctly and you can proceed to disassemble the electric switch
I can meet both single-key switches, and two- and three-key switches. The most common are two-key, using their example, the sequence of work will be shown.
First you need to remove the keys from the switch. This is done quite quickly and simply without special tools. It is necessary to press the key against the wall with your thumb, and with other fingers to take it by the protruding edge and pull it towards you. Many people are afraid to break the key, because it is held quite tightly, in which case you can use a flat screwdriver or a knife and slightly pry the key. Still, it is better to use your hands, and after a while everything will work out. Further, according to the same principle, the second key is removed. 
After that, you need to remove the switch frame itself. It can be pressed against the mechanism with a black stake located in the middle. This is a latch-type mount, so you need to use a small flat screwdriver to pry this insert as shown in the photo. After that, the switch mechanism itself will become available. 
In order to remove the switch from the wall, loosen the mounting tabs that hold it. To do this, loosen the corresponding screws (shown in the photo) and after that the mechanism should freely exit the wall. Sometimes the switch can be screwed on the sides mounting box, in which case they must be unscrewed. 
Then the switch is removed from the box and the voltage on the connected wires is checked using a special indicator screwdriver. If everything is done correctly, then there should be no tension. After that, unscrew the fasteners of all wires and disconnect them from the switch.
The removed switch must be inspected for melted contacts, and if this is the problem, then such a switch cannot be repaired and must be replaced. If there are no such problems, then the switch is inspected for other damage and all contacts are checked, especially at the places where the wires are attached.
Switches designed to switch the operating modes of lighting in rooms are distinguished by a high margin of safety. Therefore, they can last a very, very long time. However, sometimes there are situations when it is required to remove this element from the wall, for example, for wallpapering or replacing it with a new and improved model. The whole process will take on the strength of 20 minutes, even for a person who has encountered such a need for the first time. The main thing here is to adhere to safety rules, as well as perform all actions very carefully and carefully. After all, the switch is 90% composed of plastic elements, which can be easily damaged by inept handling.
We remove the switch from the wall - what to look for first
To begin with, take care of the presence of special thin rubber gloves, without which it is not recommended to work. After that, you can proceed directly to the dismantling process. To properly remove the switch from the wall, you need to understand some of the features of the process.
Important points to highlight are:
- Safety machines. The network is connected to the apartment through fuse plugs or current protection circuit breakers. Before starting work in without fail it is required to de-energize the voltage, for which the toggle switch of the machine is transferred to the lower position. If there are plugs in the switchboard, then you will need to turn them off by pressing the red button located nearby, and also unscrew both plugs from the cartridge, which are responsible for the neutral wire and phase.
- Switch type. It is also very important point. Today, a wide variety of models are used, which differ in additional functions - remote control, smooth adjustment and so on. However, for our problem, only the type of fastening matters - hidden (the switch box is recessed into concrete) and external (the box is screwed to the wall with screws). The first type is somewhat more complicated, so we will focus on it.
- Connection diagram. Most often, the light switch is equipped with several keys, which makes it difficult to remove the device from the wall, since the number of wires suitable for each key increases. In addition, the more keys, the longer it will take to remove each of these elements.
Remove the keys from the switch - the first stage of dismantling
Although the process of removing the switch is not difficult, it is recommended to try to invite an electrician. After all, work can be dangerous, because you have to deal with electricity. If calling a specialist is not possible, you have to act on your own. Before replacing the switch, you must make sure that it is he who has failed. Often the problem is in the cartridge, which simply burns out over time.
If the switch needs to be dismantled in any case, for example, in order to wallpaper the walls when this element interferes with work, then it will be necessary to completely de-energize the circuit for connecting electrical appliances in the apartment. Neglect of electrical safety rules can cause the following problems:
- 1. Fire
- 2. Breakdown of electrical wiring insulation
- 3. Failure of devices connected to the network as a result of a short circuit
- 4. Electric shock, eye damage, burns.
It is necessary not only to turn off the power in the apartment, but also to close the shield with a lock. You can also hang a sign on the shield, indicating that work is currently underway involving electricity. Only then can you be sure that none of the residents will accidentally supply current to the apartment.
To remove the switch, we need the following tools:
- Portable light source
- Voltage indicator screwdriver
- Flat and Phillips screwdriver
We need a flat screwdriver to detach the keys. This must be done carefully so as not to scratch the keys and the frame, and also not to break them. The tip is installed between the frame and the key, on either side. Next, you need to apply a little effort, using a screwdriver as a lever, enough for the key to move away from its place. The remaining keys, if any, are removed much easier, already without the use of screwdrivers.
Now let's check if there is really no voltage. Here we need an indicator screwdriver, which we apply to each of the contacts. Suitable for keys. It is recommended to install a flashlight or any other light source so that you can see exactly what you are doing or touching. Therefore, it is better for beginners not to do such work on their own, it can be very difficult to do without help.
By removing the keys, the master gets the opportunity to check the integrity of the contacts, as well as determine the voltage in them. This will allow you to answer the question of whether the switch is out of order and whether it needs to be completely replaced. If further dismantling is necessary, we proceed to the next stage of work.
How to remove a frame - an algorithm of actions for beginners
It may be necessary to remove the switch from the wall in cases where it is necessary to completely replace the device, as well as to make a detailed inspection of the equipment. In this case, it will not be possible to limit yourself to just the keys, you also need to remove the frame in addition. Fortunately, this process is also not particularly difficult, the main thing is to act in accordance with the instructions and safety precautions.
We need the same set of tools as for working with keys. More often, the switch itself is fixed with several screws, for unscrewing which a Phillips screwdriver is useful. By unscrewing the screws, you can remove the frame. It is very fragile and thin, so the actions are performed as carefully as possible. Again, with a flat screwdriver, you need to pry off the frame, and then pull your fingers towards you. If everything is done correctly, the fixing frame will easily move away, after which you just have to get the light switch.
Socket with a switch - features of dismantling this device
Universal designs are very popular, including a socket and a switch, made in a single housing. Such devices are quite convenient during operation, since it becomes possible to connect lighting fixtures and power the outlet from one incoming line. The disadvantage is obvious - in the event of a breakdown of one of the elements, you will need to remove the socket from the wall along with the switch, regardless of the source of the problem. You should not worry, because this operation is performed very quickly.
Armed with a flat screwdriver, remove the keys, as described above. Under the keys are screws, which are removed with a Phillips screwdriver. This is not the only fastener element - the socket has its own screws, which will also need to be unscrewed to dismantle the entire case. Having unscrewed all the screws, it remains only to gently pull the body of the device towards you so that it moves away from its place. To help yourself, you can again use a flathead screwdriver, carefully prying off the case.
In cases where the source of lighting problems is the switch, you will need to replace it with a new one. When you go to a hardware store, be sure to take your old switch with you. This will ensure that the new model will fit the existing connector in size. By the way, if you previously had a keyboard instrument, this does not mean that you only need to buy the same equipment. So, a touch switch, or a switch with smooth light control, is perfect.
Connecting a new switch is done in the opposite order to dismantling the old one. The apartment, of course, is completely de-energized, after which the device itself is disassembled directly. Next, the wires are connected, this must be done in the same places where they were connected on the old switch. After that, the block is installed in the socket opening, fixed with four screws.
It remains only to fix the decorative frame and keys. This work can be considered fully completed. By turning on the switch in the switchboard, we make sure that everything works with a bang.
Surely everyone has dealt with repairs at least once, and he knows that such a joyful process at the end causes so much trouble. It also happens that even minor tasks can put you in a stupor. Today we will talk about one of these tasks, namely how to disassemble the light switch. Due to regular use, the switch device very often fails, thereby creating inconvenience and trouble.
The process of disassembling modern switches is approximately the same, since there are no special differences between their structure. Quite often, the switches break down due to the poor quality of the mechanism, the parts begin to melt either at high load current, or due to poor contact, the plastic turns yellow or deteriorates over time appearance. We will consider the most common options for switches and describe step by step the instructions for parsing them.
Step 1. Preparatory work
First, you need to prepare a tool, namely an indicator screwdriver, otherwise, or a voltmeter. Just remember that when measuring voltage, one end of the device gets on the phase wire (contact in the switch), and the other end must be connected to the neutral wire or. They are not in the switch, you need to find it either in or in, i.e. in the other place. This makes it more convenient to use. Before that, it is necessary to turn off the electricity in the house in order to make the process safe. To de-energize the apartment, you need to find the circuit breakers in and turn them off - move the lever from the ON position to the OFF position. If there are several such switches, no matter what to make a mistake, turn off everything, for your own safety. If the plugs are of the old type, then you just need to turn them off by pressing the button. Then, using an indicator screwdriver, check if there is voltage in the wiring of the switch.
Step 2: Removing the switch key
The second step is to disassemble the switch itself. The switches can be removed in two ways:
- Pull out by hand;
To pull out the switch key with your hand, you must firmly grasp it by the protruding edge and pull it towards you. With a little effort. The key should give in and pop out.
If the key does not lend itself, then you can gently pry it with a screwdriver. To begin, take the protruding edge of the key and pry it off with a screwdriver on one side. It is important to remember that this must be done carefully, otherwise there is a possibility of damaging the switch.
If the switch has two keys, then you need to do all of the above with each of the keys in turn. In case you have to assemble the switch back without replacing it with a new one, then put all the parts in a separate place so as not to lose them and not make a mistake.
Step 3: Removing the switch bezel
After removing the keys, you need to remove the switch frame. Often, there are switches with a solid frame that are attached to the mechanism using small screws or self-tapping screws. Take them apart with a screwdriver.
Also, there are switches with a built-in mount. This system is installed in special grooves, and it can be removed by gently pulling towards you. In some cases, it is necessary to pry with a screwdriver.
The third type of switches is a design where the frame is attached to the mechanism using metal fasteners. In this case, if it is not possible to immediately remove the fasteners, then when disassembling such a frame, it is first better to remove the entire structure and then remove the fasteners that hold the frame in the mechanism.
Step 4. Removing the switch mechanism from the socket
After removing the frame, the stage of detaching the mechanism from . To do this, you need to unscrew the screws located on the sides that hold the mechanism in the socket with a screwdriver.
Some mechanisms are mounted on "struts". Legs are installed on the sides of them, which, when the screw is tightened, disperse to the sides, thereby securing the mechanism in the socket.
Also, some mechanisms can be mounted in a mounting box, then you need to loosen the screws on the box and remove it.
Step 5. Disconnecting the wires
The final step is to disconnect the switch mechanism from the voltage wires. There are two types of attachment:
- screw terminals;
- spring terminals.
In the first case, you need to loosen the screws in the terminals and only then remove the wires. If the mechanism is with clamping terminals, then you will need to find the levers in the places where the wires are attached, press on them and disconnect the wires.
When disconnecting the wires from the mechanism, for the convenience of reassembly, it is worth remembering which wire was on which side. Most often, wires go to the load (light bulbs) from the side contacts, and a phase comes to the central terminal.
After you have followed all the instructions, you can try to find out the cause of the breakdown. It is worth looking through the disassembled switch for yellow, dull spots, melted plastic. Perhaps the reason lies in the poor contact of the wires with the mechanism. Over time, the contact weakens and you just need to tighten the screws tighter.
Step 6 Switch Assembly Process
During the assembly or replacement of the mechanism with a new one, the process is carried out in the opposite direction. First, you need to fix the wires. Then fix the mounting box in the socket, then carefully put on the frame and insert the keys. If you are dismantling the switch during repairs, and are not going to install a new one, you need to remember that after turning on the electricity, the bare wires will be energized, so they need to be insulated.
How to disassemble the video switch be sure to see
Conclusion
In this article, you learned possible reasons malfunctions or incorrect operation of the switch, how to disassemble the light switch, how the switch works, how to replace it with a new one. Following step by step instructions, you can disassemble the light switch, repair, assemble or install a new one. We hope that this article was informative and informative for you.
Sometimes, for one reason or another, it is necessary to dismantle and remove the light switch available in any dwelling. Before starting work, you should familiarize yourself with some of the nuances that allow you to carry out the process correctly. In the article we will tell you how to disassemble the light switch, we will give detailed step-by-step instructions.
Required tool for disassembly
To disassemble the switch, you will need some simple tools and fixtures. The main ones are a pair of screwdrivers, although many devices can be dismantled with the help of a single flat one. A Phillips screwdriver will be needed for devices that have cross-shaped screws in their design.
Before starting work, you should take care of turning off the power supply to the apartment or house. Switching off is carried out in the electrical panel, which, as a rule, is located on the stairwell or near front door. If it is not known which of the levers is responsible for a particular room of the apartment, it is recommended not to take risks, but to immediately switch all the toggle switches to the “OFF” position. Failure to do so may result in electric shock when removing the circuit breaker.
Before starting work, de-energize the room or the entire dwelling by moving the corresponding toggle switchIt must always be remembered that when doing any work with electricity, safety is the most important factor. The lever in the electrical panel must be pointing down. Even with a completely de-energized home, it will not be superfluous to play it safe, additionally making sure that there is no voltage with an indicator screwdriver. Also, before disassembling, you should study the design features of the installed switch. Read also the article: → "".
Disassembly of the device that turns off the light begins with the removal of the key, since it is impossible to continue work without dismantling it. Removing this structural element is almost always quite quick and easy. Before removing the key, you must carefully examine the mechanism of the existing device. It is issued various types, in connection with which the process may have fundamental differences.
The easiest way is to press the key towards the wall with your thumb, grab the ledge with your other fingers and, with not too much effort, pull the key towards you. Some people are often afraid of damaging the key by applying too much force to a tightly mounted element. In this case, you can use a flat thin screwdriver or a knife, slightly prying the key. But still it is better to try to remove it manually - the risk of scratching or damaging the element is minimal.
To remove the key in most models of switches, it is enough to use your fingers There are such models of switches, for example, Lezard, in which there are special holes on the sides of the keys. Prying them with a screwdriver, removing the key is done without much effort. If the switch is two-key, then the second element is removed after removing the previous one according to the same principle. Read also the article: → "".
Removing the switch frame
The next work when disassembling the switch is to remove the frame, which can be fixed in two ways:
- screw;
- clamping.
The fastening of the screw frames, as you might guess, is carried out by means of small screws, unscrewed with a Phillips or flat screwdriver. The clamping frames are attached using special clamps, which can be simply bent out for dismantling. For greater convenience and speed up the process, one clamp is first removed, and then the second.
Switch disassembly and dismantling
The final step in disassembling the switch is removing it from the mounting box. To do this, loosen the mounting tabs that securely hold the device in the wall. The corresponding screws are loosened, after which the mechanism is freely removed from the wall. Some models of switches, such as Makel brands, are fixed to the sides of the box with screws. In this case, they should simply be unscrewed using a screwdriver.
After dismantling the switch on the wires connected to it, it is necessary to measure the voltage using an indicator screwdriver. If there is no voltage, then after disassembling the fasteners, the wires are disconnected from the device.
Council number 1. The dismantled switch should be inspected for melted contacts. If there are any, then the device cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced. In the absence of this problem, it is necessary to inspect for damage of a different nature, and also check all contacts at the points of attachment of the wires.
Disconnecting wires from the device
In most models of switches, including the Legrand and Wessen brands, the wires are fixed by means of a bolted connection, which, when disconnected, simply needs to be loosened and slightly pulled towards you. If the switch fails, before installing a new wire, they are insulated and marked with different colors so as not to confuse them during installation.
Features of dismantling popular brands of switches (MAKEL, LEGRAND, Wessen, LEZZARD)
Switches of the MAKEL brand have some design features, and therefore their disassembly is carried out according to the following technology:
- remove the keys - there are no differences from other brands of devices;
- dismantle the cover.
When removing the decorative frame, you may encounter some problems. The manufacturer used to fasten this element with special elastic clips that go deep into the device. The overlay must be pulled towards you, without applying from extra effort as it can be easily damaged. Also a design feature is the location of the screws with inside, therefore, you can get close to them only after removing the case from the wall.
LEGRAND
The key or keys of the LEGRAND double switch are removed without any serious effort by pressing on the lower or upper part. Then, after removing the frame, it is necessary to loosen the tabs that hold the device in the mounting box.
Wessen
The keys in the Wessen switch models are removed as follows. The protruding parts are wrapped around with fingers, compressed and pulled towards themselves. When pressed, the axial guides come out of the grooves. There are some nuances when removing the frame. The solid plate of Wessen Prima switches is attached to the body of the mechanism by means of two bolts, which are easily unscrewed with a screwdriver.
The Wessen Zenit switch with the frame removed is attached to the wall with a pair of bolts LEZARD
Switches of this brand can have frames attached in two ways:
- screws that are simply unscrewed with a screwdriver;
- special fastening in the form of side latches, which must be carefully picked up and bent with a knife or screwdriver.
Switches with three keys of the Lezard brand are dismantled by removing the elements one by one How to disassemble a light switch with a regulator
If the process of disassembling ordinary switches in most cases is clear and simple, then with devices equipped with dimmers for lighting, some difficulties may arise. Dimmers, including mechanical ones, are connected to the circuit in exactly the same way as ordinary switches. Therefore, their disassembly is carried out according to the same scheme:
- the rotary handle is removed;
- using a screwdriver or a knife, the decorative frame is released from the latch;
- the fasteners are loosened;
- screws fixing the housing are unscrewed.
Removing a switch with a dimmer is similar to disassembling an ordinary household appliance. How to disassemble the switch with indicator
To disassemble the illuminated switch, you must first turn off the indicator, for which the power is turned off and the LED is removed. The sequence of actions is as follows:
- turning off the switch de-energizes the room;
- the key latches are carefully pry off with a thin screwdriver and removed;
- the frame is carefully removed;
- fastener bolts are loosened;
- the device is removed from the mounting box;
- the presence of voltage in the wires is checked with a screwdriver-indicator.
Council number 2. Before touching a bare wire, make sure that there is no voltage. To do this, bring a tester or other probe to each of the contacts - the indicator should not turn on.
The Shneider Electric indicator switch is also disassembled without the use of complex tools. Frequently asked Questions
Question number 1. How can I get close to the LED in the indicator switch?
As a rule, to replace the LED element, you will need to split the device into two halves by unlatching the latches. After that, access to the LED will be opened, which can be unsoldered or removed by biting the wiring.
Question number 2. How to reassemble the switch?
Regardless of the model, the assembly of the device is always carried out in the reverse order without any nuances.
Question number 3. What to do if there are traces of oxidation on the contacts of the switch?
If the contacts are oxidized, then they can be carefully cleaned. If the terminals are melted, the switch must be replaced - its further operation is dangerous!
Typical mistakes at work
- A common mistake is to apply excessive force when removing a switch key or a decorative frame. As a result, these elements can be not only scratched, but also broken. In this case, regardless of the device model, you will need to purchase a new one, since keys and frames are not sold separately.
- The most dangerous mistake is the neglect of safety rules. Be sure to turn off the power supply to the room on the shield. If in doubt which of the switches is “correct”, it is better to turn them all off.
Light switches usually have a significant operating margin, so they do not have to be dismantled regularly.
However, if such a need has nevertheless come, then this should be done very carefully, and strictly following the sequence, so as not to damage the insides of the device, which are almost 90% plastic.
The first thing you should always do is, of course, turn off the electricity and only then start work. You will need these tools:
- screwdriver - flat and cross-shaped;
- screwdriver - voltage indicator;
- portable light source.
Using a flat screwdriver, it is necessary to remove the switch keys, for which we install it with a tip between the frame and one of the keys, from the top or bottom side.
With a little effort and using a screwdriver as a lever, you need to pry off the key, and using your fingers to remove it from the grooves. The second key is removed already without the help of a screwdriver.
Using the indicator, they make sure that there is no voltage; for this, a screwdriver is necessarily applied to each of the contacts. If the switch is located in a dark place, use a light source to avoid damaging the equipment.
After removing the keys with the switch, you can perform any operation, and even under voltage, of course, observing the necessary precautions. They check the integrity of the contacts and the presence of voltage on them, after which they conclude that the device is working.
When there is a need to dismantle the switch, for a more detailed inspection with disconnection from the mains, or there is full confidence that the device needs to be replaced, then it is necessary to remove not only the keys, but also the fixing frame, which in turn holds the decorative frame.
To do this, you will need the same set of tools as in the previous case, however, if the switch is fixed with Phillips screws, then you will also need a Phillips screwdriver.
The fixing frame is located immediately below the keys, and you can remove it using the same flat screwdriver.
It is held by latches on the switch body, so you need to pry the teeth with a screwdriver without any extra effort, since the frame is quite fragile, and pull it towards you with your fingers. At the same time, it is necessary to hold the frame, because without the frame it can easily fall down.
Now, quite often you can find a universal wiring structure - a socket and a switch in one housing. This is very convenient, as it allows you to power the socket from one incoming line, and immediately connect the lighting fixtures by passing the phase wire through the switch.
In the event of a breakdown, which, however, is extremely rare, the entire body is removed completely, but this is not very difficult, however, it is necessary to know some features when removing such a structure.
Despite the fact that it is quite simple, in addition to the screw that fixes the case near the socket connectors, the fixation is also made in the area of the switch, under the key.
The first thing to do is to remove the switch key by prying it with a flat screwdriver, and then unscrew the screws holding the case under it, as well as the screw on the socket.
It is enough to easily pull the case towards you, and then inspect the socket and switch to find out the causes of the breakdown or even dismantle the device.
