How to Gradually Increase a Light

Increasing and decreasing a light gradually requires a special light switch known as a dimmer switch. At one time, rheostats were used for this, but they have been replaced by solid state dimmer switches, such as the silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) and the triode alternating current switch (TRIAC). Solid state dimmer switches operate more efficiently than the old-fashioned rheostat, and last longer because they generate less heat. Dimmer switches can be used on fluorescent lighting, but only with special bulbs and dimmer switches.

Masking tape
Marking pen
Screwdriver
Needle-nose pliers
Wire nuts or electrical tape

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the circuit breaker on the main power panel that controls the light switch you want to replace. Tape it in the off position and write "DO NOT TURN ON" on the tape. Tell everyone in the house what you are doing and why they must not turn on the breaker.
- 2
  Flip the on-off switch so it's not live.
- 3
  Remove the screws that hold the switch faceplate to the wall. Remove the screws that hold the light switch to the metal electrical box. Save the screws in case you need them later. Pull the switch gently away from the box until you can access the wires.
- 4
  Grasp the wires attached to the switch box with pliers, pull them off the light switch, and straighten them.
- 5
  Take your light switch to a hardware or home improvement store and find a dimmer switch that operates the same way. Ask an associate for help in necessary. Check that the new switch has installations instructions in the package.
- 6
  Take the new dimmer switch out of the package and match all the parts to the diagram on the instructions. Read the installation instructions carefully.
- 7
  Connect the dimmer switch to the wires according to the instructions. Connect the wires with wire nuts or wrap them with electrical tape.
- 8
  Insert the dimmer switch into the electrical box, gathering up any extra wire and folding it behind the switch. Attach the switch to box with the new screws that came with the switch; if these are missing or do not fit, use the old screws.
- 9
  Install the faceplate of the new switch.
- 10
  Remove the tape from the breaker on the main power panel.
- 11
  Flip the switch on the new dimmer to turn the light on and twist the dial or slide the bar to check that it dims and brightens the light correctly.
- 12
  Invite everyone in the house to come and learn how to use the new lighting control.

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