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    Janer's Avatar
    Janer Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Jul 25, 2010, 09:08 AM
    Replacing existing wall switch
    I am replacing an existing toggle switch with a new dimmer. In the existing box, there are 2 white wires maretted together and not attached to the existing switch. There are 2 black wires screwed to the top screw of the existing switch and one red wire screwed to the bottom of the existing switch. I can see a copper wire at the back of the box but the end is not accessible. The new dimmer has 2 black wires and one green. Being blonde and electrically challenged I have not idea how to hook the dimmer to the existing wires.
    mcme's Avatar
    mcme Posts: 13, Reputation: 1
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    #2

    Jul 25, 2010, 08:00 PM
    Looks like you have a three way switch layout but have a single pole dimmer switch. You will need a double pole dimmer switch. Follow the diagram on the switch or write back with further queries.
    hkstroud's Avatar
    hkstroud Posts: 11,929, Reputation: 899
    Home Improvement & Construction Expert
    		  
    #3

    Jul 26, 2010, 03:39 AM

    Connect the two black wires in the box to one of the black wires from the switch using a wire nut. Connect the red wire from the box to the other black wire of the switch. Remove the bare wire from the screw in the box. Connect a short piece of bare or green wire to the screw. Connect the two bare wires and the green from the switch together with a wire nut.
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