Can I safely change a light switch without disconnecting power to it?

Question

Yes, I know this may sound like a stupid question but I am in an apartment and don't have access to the circuit breaker.

I don't need anyone suggestion "blah blah speak to your landlord." I'd just like to know if there is a safe way to do this. Thanks.

Answer 1

There really is no safe way to do it.  You are dealing with 110 volts here, and unless you disconnect the power, you stand a nearly 100 percent chance of electrocuting yourself.

Answer 2

Yes you can but you have to be careful not to touch the live wire with your bare hands and to use well insulated tools. Identify the live wire and be sure to tape up the exposed wire with insulation tape and only remove it when connecting it to the new switch.

Answer 3

Remember it's not the volts, but the amps that kill you.  

Answer 4

Well, not a 100% chance of electrocution, but a high chance.  I would recommend having the apt. maintenance person take care of it, they will have access to the breaker.  But if you cannot wait....



The key is that you do not make contact with the charged metal parts of either the switch or the wire, and not make contact with any grounded metal with any other parts of your body, just in case.  One wire attached to the switch is 'live' and the other is the 'load' wire that brings the power to the light.  If the switch is on and the wires are connected, they are both live.

  First, take the light bulb out of the light, or unplug anything from a switched outlet.  Next, wear a pair of leather or rubber coated gloves if you have them. Then, using an insulated handle s***w driver (after the side of the switch is accessible) loosen the screws, to remove the wires. Remove the wires by holding only the insulation, don't touch the exposed metal ends, and try not to deform the loops much.  Put them onto the new switch's corresponding screws, loops going clockwise, and make sure they are still curved around the s***w as much as they were previously.  Tighten the screws well, and make sure the wires are still securely under the screws before shoving everything back in the box.

  If they are 'stab-in' type switches, you won't be unscrewing any screws on the side of the switch, but instead, will worry the wires out from the holes, and stab them into the like holes on the new switch.  I have done this live, and I have shocked myself, so death is not imminent, but honestly, it's not smart.  Just a few milli-amps across the heart and you're toast.

Answer 5

you know some cmmon sense here would help you alot!!

if you dont want to ask the landlord so you can get to the power then dont take a chace on getting electrocuted. im sure your old enough to know this. or are you??

geesh...and you may not want to hear this but.. you did anyway.. its fact and we want ya to stay alive!!