I have an existing light switch and i want to add a second switch for a new light that will be operated separately. Gently pull the entire light switch assembly outward away from the wall so that the wire terminals on both sides of the switch are exposed and able to be easily worked with using a screwdriver.
Unwire A Light Switch Home Improvement Stack Exchange
How to release wire from light switch. Loosen the terminal screws until the bare wire ends move freely. Position the switch so its on when its lever is up. Second twist the two white wires together and screw on a wire nut. To replace this kind of switch follow these steps. If the light switch has a ground screw on it usually green and at the bottom of the switch connect it now. Turn off the power to the switch at the main circuit breaker or fuse panel.
Unscrew the switch from the electrical box and pull it out with the. Place the blade of the proper size screwdriver in the screwdriver release slot and push down on the screwdriver while pulling on the wire with the pliers. The wire strippers should have a spot marked for each gauge wire. The power comes into the switch which operates a single light at the end of the circuit. How to video on how to release the solid copper wire from the back push in connectors on an electrical wall outlet. Attach the power wires to the brass terminal screws so the rounded hooks point clockwise.
It is usually a good idea to put some black electrical tape around the nut to make sure it doesnt come off. Move the wire from side to side while pulling it with the pliers if its stuck in the receptacle. Attach a grounding wire to the green screw in the same. Then use a voltage tester to make sure that the circuit is dead. How is the wiring for a new light switch and fixture added to an existing switch. Next bend the wire into a pig tail loop so that you can easily attach to the screws on the light switch.
Unscrew and remove the switch plate. Your switch may have slots to push the wires straight into place rather than use the screws on the side.