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How to Wire a Light Switch - Diagram 1

Summary: Fully explained pictures and wiring diagrams about wiring light switches describing the most common switches starting with photo diagram number 1.

Understanding the Basic Light Switch for Home Electrical Wiring

Please Note: To illustrate the wiring of these switches, Switch Boxes and Fixture Boxes are not shown but are obviously required for every application.
These diagrams are shown as using the Romex wiring method.

These Romex cables contain a ground conductor which is required for all applications as well.
The ground conductors are always bonded together to insure the integrity of the ground path.

If you are using metal boxes, the ground conductor must be attached to each box by using a threaded ground screw or provided attachment. The frames of the switches which have a ground screw are to be attached to the ground conductor as required.

How to Wire a Single Switch

Instructions

Featuring Wiring Diagrams for Single Pole Wall Switches Commonly used in the Home.

Explanation of Wiring Diagram #1

Switch wiring shows the Power Source (Power In) starts at the switch box.

Circuit electrical wiring enters the switch box

The Black Wire - Power In (source) attaches to one of the switch screw terminals

Fixture wiring exits the switch box

The Black Wire - Power Out wiring attaches to the other switch screw terminal

The White Neutral wires splice together

The ground wires splice together and bond to the switch and the box

NOTE: Switched "White" wires are shown in a different wiring diagram

Single Switch Applications

Ceiling Light Fixtures

Switch Controlled Outlet

Half-Hot Wall Outlet

Ceiling Fan and Light

Single Wall Switch Types and Styles

Standard Toggle Switch

Flat Rocker Switch

Dimmer Switch

Some Home Automation Switches

Wiring a Single Pole Switch

Your example shows 2 wire Romex but most Romex I have seen has three wires one white-one black and an un-shrouded copper ground wire. What is the correct connection for this ground wire?

Jerry,
As explained in this page above:
These Romex cables contain a ground conductor which is required for all applications as well.
The ground conductors are always bonded together to insure the integrity of the ground path.
Dave