MAKE LIGHT WORK OF IT

Light switches are functional, yes, but they can look fabulous - you'd be surprised how powerful a full switch and socket replacement project can be in terms of adding final flourishes that lift every room. You can also add nifty functionality too, like motion detecting.

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If you're a home renovator, to pay an electrician to replace every light switch in your home would cost you a bomb. It's a simple enough job to do yourself if you have the correct tools and you know how to safely isolate your lighting circuit(s). This guide will tell you all you need to know to replace either a broken light switch or change up its look.

Before we remove your old light switch, let's talk about what type of light switch you're replacing, and the types of light switches you can potentially upgrade to.

Different types of light switches

Wall-mounted light switches fittings can contain one, two, three or even more individual switches or 'gangs' that allow you to switch on and off different light fittings in a larger room or area from one switch.

What does '1' and '2' mean on the back of a light switch faceplate?: The 1 and 2 are the gangs mentioned above. A simple light switch with only 1 button on it is called a '1 gang switch', meaning it controls only a single lighting function. A '2 gang' has two buttons and controls 2 lighting functions, and so on.

What light switch do I need?: You'll need different light switches in different areas of your house. 1 gang switches will be fine for most functions, but there are other options to keep in mind. For example, a dimmer switch in your lounge may be perfect for weekend movie nights. Have a look online at the available switches, and then think about the potential functions you could have in your home.