Old and tired light switch covers not only spoil a room's look but can also be dangerous. Replacing them with new switches is a quick, smart, safe and cost-effective way to refresh a room.
There’s plenty to choose from, with the best light switches adding a modern aesthetic. You can choose the classic white light switch, which is almost guaranteed to match any decor. However, if you want to elevate the design and quality, you can invest in a more durable, attractive metal finish.
Whatever you choose, don’t forget to turn off the power before you start, invest in the right tools, and follow the advice in this guide.
The tools you’ll need to change a light switch cover
Most electrical work should be performed by a qualified professional, but some tasks can be done on a DIY basis, such as replacing a light switch cover. If you do decide to take on the job yourself, there are a few tools that you should invest in. And don’t forget to switch off the electric supply before you start.
An insulated screwdriver set, such as this BLOSTM Precision Insulated Screwdriver Set from Amazon, is essential. This set also includes a voltage tester pen. Alternatively, you can use a voltage tester pen (such as the Labgear Voltage Detector Electrical Tester Pen on Amazon) if you already have insulated screwdrivers.
If you want to replace a plastic cover with a metal one, the cover will require an additional wire connection to earth it. This is to safeguard against electric shocks.
Try these light switch covers
A standard plastic white one-way light switch that's designed to operate one light switch in a room. It has a raised square profile and will work with most standard back boxes.
A decorative switch with a slim, raised profile with softly rounded corners in brushed steel. Features an anti-fingerprint lacquer and colour-matched fixing screws for a smart, stylish design.
This brushed antique brass double switch complements modern and vintage decor. Measuring 92mm x 92mm, it's slightly larger than standard but still fits standard back boxes.
Sam Garbutt is a director at LED & Power, a North East based company that specialises in providing commercial and residential LED lighting products to the trade and wholesale market. Having worked in the lighting industry since 2016, Sam has a wide range of knowledge regarding the installation and maintenance of light fixtures to create a safe and aesthetically pleasing interior and exterior.
Steps to change a light switch cover
1. Switch off electricity
Sam Garbutt, director of LED & Power, says, “The first, and arguably the most important, step when changing a light switch cover is to isolate power to your light switch by turning off the main power supply.”
He continues, “To do this, locate your fuse box and turn off the corresponding breaker by flipping the switch.” If in any doubt, he adds, “If you’re unsure of which breaker to turn off, then I recommend turning off the mains switch for your entire home.”
Failing to isolate the can have serious consequences, adds Garbutt, “Failure to isolate power to your switch can result in electrocution, so this step is vital.”
2. Remove the light switch cover and test
Now it's time to remove the cover. Garbutt says, “Unscrew the cover using a screwdriver or drill and gently pull it forward.” He adds, “Then check that the power is off at your light switch using a voltage tester.”
3. Install new light switch cover
For reference, take a photo of the wiring before unscrewing the wires. Garbutt says, “Use a precision (insulated) screwdriver to unscrew the wires from the original light switch.” He adds, “Now, take your new cover and consult the photo that you took earlier to ensure your wires are in the same configuration when screwed back in.”
To finish, he says, “Line up the new switch cover with the holes and screw it back into place, making sure that it’s level”.
However, Garbutt concludes with a warning: “If you are replacing a plastic cover with a metal faceplate, then it must be earthed before installing the new cover.”
He adds, “The earth wire is typically green and yellow and attached to the back box inside the wall. To make sure your new cover is earthed, unscrew the earth wire and connect a fly-lead, screw the earth wire back in place, add new sleeving to your fly-lead, then connect it to the earth terminal on your new switch cover.”
4. Alternative light switch options
If adding a decorative light switch face plate over a light switch cover, first remove the screws from the cover. Place the decorative light switch face plate over the switch, line up the screw holes, add screws through both and screw it into place. If adding a blanking plate, simply screw it into place instead of replacing the cover.
Make sure that the screw holes match up with the back box screw holes. If they don't, you won't be able to use the face plate or the blanking plate.
How much does an electrician charge to change a light switch cover?
If you’re not confident in changing a light switch cover yourself, then calling in an electrician makes sense. The job shouldn’t take long, and it won’t cost too much. Removing and installing a new light switch cover should take less than an hour.
Electricians typically charge around £50 an hour. It's worth noting that an electrician may have a minimum call-out charge, so check when getting quotes. Basic light switch covers, such as the BG White 20A 2-way 1-gang Light Switch from B&Q, cost less than £2.
FAQs
Ellie Merricks is a skilled electrician who qualified in 2021. She hopes to inspire more women to join the profession, whilst sharing tips and advice aimed to help keep people safe when it comes to electrical issues in the home, and knowing when to call an electrician.
Are light switches a standard size?
In the UK, there is a common standard for light switch covers. “In the UK, you’ll find single, double, triple and quad switches available to buy. These interface with single or double-gang boxes embedded in the wall,” shares Ellie Merricks, a qualified electrician and spokesperson for Retrotouch light switches and sockets.
She adds, “Light switches are standardised in size and fixing screw spacing, which makes it easier to purchase replacement switches if you want to change their design or colour.”
Most single- and double-switches (such as this Opus 2-gang 2-way Light Switch from Amazon) measure 86mm by 86mm, but not all. Some light switch covers, typically decorative and designer, are slightly larger to enhance the design.
One tip is to ensure the replacement light switch cover fits the back box. Typically, a standard-size light switch cover will fit the current back box. However, Merricks points out that a new back box may be needed: “Deeper wall boxes can also be required if you are moving from a standard rocker switch to a dimmer, a slimline, screwless or more decorative design.”
She adds, “These may require 25mm space, which is more than the standard 16mm that suffices for most plastic switches.” If in any doubt, consult an electrician.
What is the difference between budget and more expensive light switch covers?
Light switch covers should all meet a minimum standard. The basic components, wiring, and operation will be very similar across budget and premium light switches. The key differences is typciallly in the material and the quality of the material used. The more expensive a switch, the more durable and long-lasting it usually is.
Merricks shares, “Standard white plastic switches will be the cheapest, but buy the best you can afford to avoid thin plastic models that may weaken or discolour with use.”
She adds, “Mid to high range switches tend to use thicker plastic, glass, or metal such as brushed brass, steel or chrome. These finishes will add cost, but will likely be more robust and won’t degrade or fade over time.”
Merricks concludes by stating, “Although more expensive switches will undoubtedly offer a higher-end finish to your décor, whether you opt for a budget or a more costly option, there will be no difference in safety if installed correctly by a qualified electrician.”
What British safety standard should I look for?
Whatever light switch cover you purchase, make sure it complies with British Safety standards. Merricks explains what to look for: “It should be near impossible to buy a fitting that doesn’t comply, but at present you should look for products marked with the British Safety standard.”
She adds, “Markings which can be found on products that display the relevant British Standards, including BS EN IEC 60669-1 for switches and BS 1363 for sockets, allowing compliance with UK safety standards to be easily verified.”
Light switches control the lighting in your home, and how they operate can significantly affect a room's appearance. Check out the latest lighting trends, learn how to implement lighting design, and discover how to light a kitchen to get the best results for your home.
