How to Install a Wireless Light Switch
If you have a light that you’d like to control without fumbling for a cord in the dark, or if you have a lamp plugged into an outlet that you want to add a switch to, you can add a light switch without running any more wires or dealing with batteries , which may run out. This method allows you to place the switch anywhere within 100 feet to control the lights.
How does a wireless switch work?
A wireless switch works like a remote control or smart device to control an outlet or light fixture, except it allows you to mount the switch on a wall. The receiver is installed at the end of the fixture, and the switch then acts as a remote control, controlling the flow of energy to the fixture. You’ll have to replace the batteries in the switch from time to time, but you won’t have to run wires through the wall since the switch works by using a radio signal to control the lights.
How to install the receiver
To avoid electrical shock, always turn off the power to the light fixture or outlet to which you want to add a switch. To connect the receiver to an outlet or light fixture with a pull chain or light switch in a location that is not suitable for you, unplug the unit or remove the outlet cover to expose the wiring. If you’re working with a ceiling light, be sure to make a plan to install it close enough to the power source so that you can comfortably work with it without dropping it.
If you see that the box that houses the wiring is metal, you will need to add a plastic box instead – the metal box will shield the receiver, significantly reducing the signal it can receive from the switch. When the fixture is open, you should see a black and white wire connected to the wiring going to the fixture. The receiver will have one white, one black and one red wire. Twist all three white wires together and secure them with a wire nut . Then twist the black wire from the power supply together with the black wire from the receiver and secure them with a wire nut. Finally, twist the black wire coming from the fixture with the red wire from the receiver and secure them with a wire nut. Once all connections have been made, you can replace the device.
How to install the switch
The light switch can be installed anywhere within 100 feet of the light source, although walls or other obstructions may reduce signal strength. Metal (such as plumbing fixtures) can also interfere with the wireless switch’s signal, so it is important to keep the path to the device and receiver as clear as possible. Most types of wireless switches can be wall mounted with just two screws. Since you want the switch to be straight up and down, it’s a good idea to use a level to keep everything level. The standard height of a light switch is 48 inches from the floor, but you can install it at any height that suits your needs.