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View Full Version : Question about back stab connections for light switches


mgfarmer
Aug 4, 2006, 08:01 AM
We are in a newly built home and after being there about 2 years we have noticed that some of the light switches have been popping. They are actually 3 switches that control the same light fixture. All 3 are in different boxes. I noticed these switches were installed using the back stabbed method. Only 2 of the switches had been problem and being my first time replacing a switch I just used the same method they did not knowing back stabbed isn't preferred. The 2 switches I replaced worked OK for a couple of months but soon started popping again. Is it possible that since all 3 of these switches control the same fixture that if one switch has a loose connection that it can cause the other light switches that control the same fixture to arc?

tkrussell
Aug 4, 2006, 05:16 PM
No , most likely if you did not strip the wire again, the wire was damaged by the previous insertion into a Whiz Wire switch, or the stripping is not long enough, or the quality of switch is poor.

THis method of connecting devices is popular with tract homes and subdivisions, since it is a labor saver. I do not and never did this type of method, since I also have always been involved with service and troubleshooting, I have seen this cause many loose connection problems, in short made a good deal of money finding and repairiing them.

Use a good quality switch, even the inexpensive switches are good when using the wrap around screw connection.