How to Replace the Pull Switch on a Ceiling Fan if You Don't Remember What Wire Goes Where

Ceiling fans have a small electrical switch installed in the housing that controls the fan speed or the lights of the fan. The chains are usually strong, but sometimes break under pressure, as does the switch itself. Ceiling fan switches can be removed from the fan with little electrical experience. But knowing which wire goes where is important. Without the correct wiring, the switch will not work properly. Select the correct switch from the hardware store; most units use a two-wire switch, but some use three wires if the fan uses a three-way bulb.

Screwdriver
Wire cutter
Switch

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the electricity to the room you are working in at the fuse box.
- 2
  Unscrew the decorative pulls from the chains on the pull switches.
- 3
  Remove the globes from the fan by turning the nuts holding them in place. Also remove the light bulbs.
- 4
  Remove the screws from the ceiling fan housing. Let the housing hang.
- 5
  Unscrew the nut holding the switch to the cover plate.
- 6
  Remove the wire nut holding the wire of the switch to the wires going to the light. Cut the other wire leading up to the ceiling fan. Strip that wire back 1/2 inch. Remove the other wire; if you have a three-way switch, remove the wire nut from the other wire and remove the switch.
- 7
  Wrap the wire from the switch to the light wires. You can use either wire from the switch. Attach the other wire to the wire leading into the ceiling. Twist the wire nuts around the new connections clockwise.
- 8
  Secure the switch to the housing of the fan with the nut. Reassemble the fan and turn on the power.

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