Momentary Switch Replacement

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Introduction

Momentary switches are commonly used in electrical circuits to provide momentary contact, which means that they only make contact when they're pressed or held down. Over time, these switches can become damaged or worn out, resulting in poor or non-existent electrical connections. If you're experiencing issues with your momentary switch, it may be time to replace it.

It's important to note that this guide involves working with electrical wiring, which can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. If you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring, or if you're unsure about any aspect of the process, we strongly recommend that you seek the assistance of a qualified electrician.

Please be aware that many local jurisdictions have regulations that prohibit unlicensed individuals from performing electrical installations or modifications. Before attempting any electrical work, check your local building codes and regulations to ensure that you are legally permitted to do so. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines, invalidated insurance, or difficulties when selling your property.

Assuming you're confident, legally permitted, and capable of working with electrical wiring, this guide will walk you through the steps of replacing a momentary switch, including how to safely disconnect the power supply, removing the old switch, and installing the new one. It's important to remember that electrical work should always be approached with caution, so make sure to follow the instructions carefully and double-check your work at every stage of the process.

What you need

Step 1 Turn off power

Momentary Switch Replacement, Turn off power: step 1, image 1 of 3

Momentary Switch Replacement, Turn off power: step 1, image 2 of 3

Momentary Switch Replacement, Turn off power: step 1, image 3 of 3

Find your Breaker Panel.
Identify the breaker to turn off.
There'll typically be a table listing the rooms corresponding to breakers.
Turn off the breaker.

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Step 2 Check that the power is off

Press the switch to ensure that the power is actually off (p. ex. the lights don't turn on).

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Step 3 Remove the old switch cover

Momentary Switch Replacement, Remove the old switch cover: step 3, image 1 of 3

Momentary Switch Replacement, Remove the old switch cover: step 3, image 2 of 3

Momentary Switch Replacement, Remove the old switch cover: step 3, image 3 of 3

Remove the switch cover by jamming a flat head screwdriver into the gap between the outer frame and the switch cover.
Some manufacturers, like Busch-Jaeger have an extra frame beneath the switch cover, so you'll have to remove that as well.
Remove the frame
If you can't remove the frame because there's a wall socket on the same frame, take a look at this guide, on how to remove the cover of a wall outlet.

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Step 4 Remove the old switch

Momentary Switch Replacement, Remove the old switch: step 4, image 1 of 1

Loosen the holding claws by turning the two screws.
If your switch is mounted inside a cavity wall box you can remove it by loosening the two screws around the perimeter and turning the switch until the two keyholes line up.

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Step 5 Determine voltage absence

Momentary Switch Replacement, Determine voltage absence: step 5, image 1 of 2

Momentary Switch Replacement, Determine voltage absence: step 5, image 2 of 2

Use a Duspol or any other two-pole voltage tester to test if there is voltage at the contacts.
Do not work on live circuits if you are not an experienced professional.

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Step 6 Disconnect the wires

Momentary Switch Replacement, Disconnect the wires: step 6, image 1 of 1

Disconnect the wires form the old switch.
If the old switch has Push-In contacts, you can unlock the terminals by pushing down on the plastic levers.
If you short Earth to Neutral you'll trigger your GFCI/RCD, even if the power is off.