How to Wire a Single-Pole Light Switch
Quick Answer
Turn off power, connect the live wire to the common terminal, and the switched live to the L1 terminal, and earth to the back box.
How to troubleshoot How to Wire a Single-Pole Light Switch
Wiring a light switch is a common electrical task. This guide explains how to wire a single-pole switch safely and correctly.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Turn off the power at the circuit breaker for the circuit you are working on.
- Remove the old switch plate and unscrew the switch from the wall box.
- Note the wire configuration – usually a live (brown) and switched live (blue or black) plus earth.
- Connect the brown live wire to the COM terminal on the new switch.
- Connect the other wire (switched live) to the L1 terminal.
- Connect the earth wire to the earth terminal on the back box.
- Screw the switch back into the box, attach the faceplate, and restore power.
Common Error Codes
| Code | Meaning | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Switch doesn't turn light on | Loose connection or wrong terminals | Check that the wires are in the COM and L1 terminals. |
| Circuit trips | Short circuit | Turn off power and check for bare wires touching. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wire a switch without an earth wire?
No, earth must be connected for safety in modern installations.
What is the difference between L1 and L2?
For a single-pole switch, use L1; L2 is used for two-way switches.