How to Install an A/C Switch

Installing an A/C switch will allow you to control your air conditioning from an electrical switch, rather than from the unit itself. The A/C switch controls the outlet that the A/C is connected to. For many homeowners who keep their A/C at a set temperature, an electrical switch allows them to quickly turn on the A/C. While it can be intimidating to someone who has little electrical work experience to install a switch, it can be done by following the proper directions and using the right tools.

Screwdriver
Wire stripper
12-gauge wire
Wire nut

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the circuit breaker to the outlet to which the A/C is connected.
- 2
  Run two 12-gauge wires between the outlet which the A/C is plugged into and the switch you want to install.
- 3
  Strip each end of the new electrical wire. Use the wire stripper to remove about an inch of the electrical insulation off each end of the new wires.
- 4
  Disconnect the live wire on the outlet with the screwdriver. The live wire is usually black or red in color. Connect the live wire from the outlet with one of the new wires you ran from the switch. Secure the two wires together by twisting a wire nut at the end.
- 5
  Connect the remaining new wire from the switch to the screw where the old live wire was connected at the outlet. Use the screwdriver to secure the wire in place.
- 6
  Connect the other end of the new wires to the black screws on the electrical switch. Wrap a wire around each screw and tighten it in place with the screwdriver.
- 7
  Turn on the circuit breaker and turn on the switch. Make sure the A/C is always set to "On" to ensure it will turn on and off when you hit the switch.

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