Replacing a Lamp Socket Switch or Cord Switch

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Easy step-by-step guide for beginners
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Lamps are a stylish way to bring soft light into a room, but it can be frustrating when your lamp switch stops working. Instead of throwing your lamp away, try installing a new socket or cord switch yourself! It’s an easy project that even a beginner can tackle, and you can replace the switch whether it’s located on the lamp itself or on the cord. All you need are a few simple tools and you’ll be out of the dark in no time. In this article, we explain how to replace your socket switch and cord switch, some of the issues you may face while replacing the socket switch, and more.

Replacing a Lamp Switch: Quick Guide

  1. Figure out the type of socket switch you need.
  2. Unplug the lamp and remove the shade, bulb, and wire holding the shade.
  3. Squeeze and pull the socket shell to remove it, then locate the attached wires.
  4. Remove the wires leading to the socket, then strip ½ inch (1.3 cm) of insulation.
  5. Wrap the wires around the screws on the new socket shell (hot to brass, neutral to silver)
  6. Place the new socket shell into the lamp and press down.
  7. Reattach the light bulb, lamp shade, and plug.
Section 1 of 3:

How to Replace a Socket Switch

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  1. Your new switch can be whatever type you prefer, regardless of the existing switch. For instance, if your lamp has a pull chain but you want to install a 3-way turn knob, all you have to do is buy a 3-way turn switch and a light bulb with 2 brightness levels . [1]
    • You can even replace a socket switch with a cord switch. Just purchase a new socket assembly without a switch and follow the instructions below for replacing a cord switch .
    • You can buy a new socket switch from most hardware stores, and they usually cost around $2-$5 USD.
  2. When working with wires, master electrician Daniel Stoescu says to always turn the power off (in this case, by unplugging the lamp) so you don’t get shocked or electrocuted. Double-check to be sure that the lamp is unplugged before you start to take it apart. Make sure your work area is well-lit so you’re still able to see while you replace your lamp switch.
    • Let the bulb and socket cool off before you start working so you don’t burn yourself.
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  3. At this point, the socket at the top of the lamp should be exposed. On most lamps, this is where the switch is located.
  4. The socket shell is the actual assembly where the switch is located and the light bulb screws in. On most lamps, you can squeeze the socket shell and pull upwards to remove it. [2]
    • If the socket shell is hard to remove, use a screwdriver to pry it loose.
    • Be careful not to cut yourself on any sharp edges while you remove the socket shell.
  5. There should be 2 wires attached to the switch. 1 is hot and the other is neutral. The hot wire is usually attached to a brass screw, and the neutral wire is usually attached to a silver screw. [3]
    • The neutral wire is usually marked. It may be a different color, or the insulation may be printed, stamped, or have indentations. Note this now so you know which wire is neutral when you hook up your new switch.
    • If you can’t identify the neutral wire, look at the plug. The neutral wire is attached to the wider plug blade on a polarized plug. If your plug blades are the same size, you should replace the plug while you’re replacing the socket. [4]
  6. Depending on the type of socket you have, you may need to take a different approach to remove the wires. If they’re are connected with the brass and silver screws, remove them with your hands. If they’re connected to the body itself, remove them with your hands or cut them as close to the switch if they’re tightly secured. [5]
    • Wear protective gear when you’re working with the wires.
  7. Use wire cutters to make a notch in the insulation around the wires, then clamp down on the insulation with the strippers and carefully pull the insulation away. [6]
    • If you see any strands of wire when you pull away the insulation, it means you cut too deep. Cut off that section and start again.
  8. Use your fingers to wrap each wire tightly around the corresponding screw (the neutral wire to the silver screw and the hot wire to the brass screw). Although sockets are slightly different depending on the manufacturer, the wires should thread easily through the socket. [7]
    • Make sure the socket is right-side-up and look for wire channels to help you know where to guide the wire.
    • Use pliers to curl the wires if you’re unable to properly move them with your fingers.
  9. You should hear the new socket shell snap into place. If there is a screw on the stem of the lamp, tighten it by turning it counterclockwise to hold the socket in place. [8]
  10. If you’ve done everything right, you should be able to use your new switch to turn on your lamp! If the lamp doesn't come on, check the connection in your switch and try again. If this doesn't help, you may need to replace the plug. [9]
    • Once you replace your switch and bulb, regularly clean your socket switch and periodically check it for signs of wear and tear, as dust and debris tend to build up over time.
    • Use a bulb with the correct wattage. Check the wattage by consulting your instruction manual or checking the label on the inside of the lamp. When you use the wrong wattage for your lamp, it can lead to overheating.
    • When you’re storing bulbs, make sure they’re in a cool, dry place so they don’t accumulate moisture or anything else that can damage the socket switch.
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Section 2 of 3:

How to Replace a Cord Switch

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  1. 1
    Make sure the lamp is unplugged. Before you start working on replacing the cord switch, unplug your lamp so it doesn’t have any power. This will prevent you from getting shocked or electrocuted once you start working with the wires.
  2. Look for printing that says either SPT-1 or SPT-2. It’s typically located on the cord’s insulation. The printing is small, so you might have to look carefully. Once you’ve determined the size switch you need, head to a hardware store near you or hop online and order a new cord switch. [10]
    • The difference between SPT-1 and SPT-2 involves the thickness of the lamp cord.
    • Pick the cord switch that best fits your needs, just make sure it works with the lamp that you currently have.
  3. Some switches only require you to connect the hot wire. [11] If this is the case, there will be a channel along one side of the switch for the neutral wire.
  4. Licensed electrical contractor Martin Hennum says you may be able to open the casing of the existing switch and remove the wires without cutting them, but if not, use wire cutters to cut as close to the switch as you can.
    • Hennum says to avoid cutting the neutral wire. If you have to cut it to remove the old switch, strip the insulation and connect the cut ends of the neutral wire.
    • If you like, add a plastic connector to protect the wire at the location where you want your new switch to be.
    • If you’re adding a cord switch when there wasn’t one before, use a small knife to carefully split the cord where you want your new switch to go, then cut through the hot wire. If your switch requires you to attach the neutral wire, cut through that too.
  5. Use your wire cutters to make a notch in the wire insulation, then gently pull to remove it. Only take off as much insulation as you need to attach the wires to the screws in the switch. [12]
  6. If you only have one screw, it's for the hot wire. If you have to connect both the hot and neutral wires, the hot wire goes to the brass screw, and the neutral wire goes to the silver screw.
  7. Use your fingers to wrap the wires around the screws securely, and make sure there is enough insulation on the wires so that no live wires will be exposed when you close the switch. [13]
    • There should be no visible wires showing when the switch is assembled. All you should see is insulated cord.
    • If the exposed wires are too long, use the wire cutters to snip off a small portion and reattach the wires to the screws.
  8. Make sure that the cover closes securely and there are no bare wires showing around the switch. [14]
  9. If you’re confident that the switch feels like it’s securely connected and there are no live wires showing, it’s time to test out your lamp! If you hooked everything up right, you should be able to plug in the lamp and turn it right on.
    • If the lamp doesn’t turn on, double-check your wiring and try again.
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Section 3 of 3:

Frequently Asked Questions

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  1. 1
    Is a lamp socket replacement expensive? The price varies depending on the type and quality of the socket. Some are as low as $3 while others range from $30-$40. While you may face higher costs when having a professional replace the lamp socket, you can also do it yourself to save money.
  2. 2
    Where can I get replacement lamp sockets? Head to your local hardware store, like Home Depot or Ace Hardware. They should have lamp sockets in stock. Alternatively, order one online through Amazon or another shopping site. Just make sure they fit your lamp.
  3. 3
    Can I replace a light socket myself? Yes! As long as you follow the instructions for replacing a socket switch and consult your owner’s manual to make sure you’re using the correct-sized equipment, you will be able to replace the socket yourself.
  4. 4
    When should I replace my lamp socket? When your bulb starts showing signs of damage, like flickering or a burning smell, or malfunctions, it’s time to replace your lamp socket. If it starts overheating, it’s also time to replace it to avoid risking your safety. Be careful, as overheating, burning, or sparking lamps can be dangerous if you don’t approach the issue carefully.
    • It’s best to have a professional repair the lamp if it’s dealing with major electrical issues. They will ensure that it’s safe to use and working properly before returning it to you.
  5. 5
    What are some common issues that occur when replacing a lamp socket? Some of the common issues include an improperly fitting socket, wiring issues, and a malfunctioning socket. When addressing these issues, you can fix them by following these instructions:
    • How to fix an improperly fitting socket: Make sure your socket is compatible with the lamp and clean away any dust or debris potentially blocking the connection.
    • How to fix wiring issues: Look for signs of damage and replace the wires if you notice any. If not, secure the wires, nuts, and plug.
    • How to fix a malfunctioning socket: Replace the bulb, secure the connections, and make sure there’s power to the outlet. Consult a professional if the socket still malfunctions afterward.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How do you change the switch in a ceiling fan?
    Martin Hennum
    Licensed Electrical Contractor
    Martin Hennum is a Licensed Electrical Contractor and Owner of Peach Electric based in Sacramento, California. With over 10 years of experience, Martin and his team specialize in residential and commercial electrical work. They are knowledgeable about new technologies that help clients with future proofing so they save time and money. Martin is passionate about customer service, bringing the best information to clients, and prioritizing safety across projects.
    Martin Hennum
    Licensed Electrical Contractor
    Expert Answer
    First, take the trim cover off—which is the white cover plate. Then, take the switch out and identify which one has power using a non-contact voltage tester. Finally, put that on the correct terminal point on the new switch, screw it back in and install the trim cover back on.
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  • Question
    Can you fix a lamp switch?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    You can definitely replace a socket switch if it isn't working anymore. Make sure the lamp is unplugged and remove the shade and bulb. The socket shell is the actual assembly where the switch is located and the light bulb screws in. On most lamps, you can squeeze the socket shell and pull upwards to remove it. If it's hard to remove, use a screwdriver to pry it loose. There should be 2 wires attached to the switch. 1 is hot and the other is neutral. The hot wire is usually attached to a brass screw, and the neutral wire is usually attached to a silver screw. Cut through the wires as close to the switch as possible to ensure you have plenty of wire to work with. Then, cut off the ends of the wire and strip away 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) of insulation with a pair of wire cutters. Then, use your fingers to wrap the 2 wires tightly around the screw and then push the new socket into the lamp. You can then replace the light bulb, plug in the lamp, and test it out.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    Yes No
    Not Helpful 5 Helpful 7
  • Question
    How do you a lamp cord switch?
    Drew Hawkins1
    Community Answer
    It's actually not too difficult. If you're replacing the switch with a new one, you may not need to cut all of the wires. Some switches only require you to connect the hot wire. If this is the case, there will be a channel along one side of the switch for the neutral wire. You may even be able to open the casing of the existing switch and remove the wires without cutting them, but if not, use wire cutters to cut as close to the switch as you can. Try to avoid cutting the neutral wire. If you have to cut it in order to remove the old switch, strip the insulation and connect the cut ends of the neutral wire together. You can also add a plastic connector to protect the wire at the location where you want your new switch to be.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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      • Try changing the bulb and plugging the lamp into a different outlet before you take it apart.
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      Warnings

      • Always use caution when working when electricity. Ensure that everything is unplugged before you work and call professionals for more extensive electrical work. Electricity is dangerous and can be fatal if it isn’t handled correctly.
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      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about electrical maintenance, check out our in-depth interview with Martin Hennum .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/electrical-repair/how-to-repair-a-table-lamp/view-all/
      2. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/electrical-repair/how-to-repair-a-table-lamp/view-all/
      3. ↑ http://www.dummies.com/home-garden/home-improvement/electrical-wiring/how-to-repair-a-faulty-lamp/
      4. ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/1992/08/27/garden/home-improvement.html
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/JZ8VThRKx1Q?si=oT_soHcqRPp4Mvpg&t=196
      6. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/electrical-repair/how-to-repair-a-table-lamp/view-all/
      7. ↑ https://youtu.be/JZ8VThRKx1Q?si=xqpVNO55_GQVFX74&t=263
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/JZ8VThRKx1Q?si=AzehWK5wozy-Lbqf&t=351
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/JZ8VThRKx1Q?si=eRh0ve19HbFekhA8&t=381
      1. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/wiring-switches/how-to-install-an-in-line-cord-switch/view-all/
      2. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-install-an-in-line-cord-switch/
      3. ↑ https://www.essentialhomeandgarden.com/replace-lamp-cord-switch/
      4. ↑ https://www.essentialhomeandgarden.com/replace-lamp-cord-switch/
      5. ↑ https://www.familyhandyman.com/electrical/wiring-switches/how-to-install-an-in-line-cord-switch/view-all/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To replace your lamp switch, unplug the lamp and remove the light bulb and lamp shade. Squeeze the socket shell to remove it from the lamp base, then cut the wires attached to the old switch. Carefully strip about 1/2 an inch of insulation off of the wires, then reconnect the wires to the new switch. Place the new socket shell into the lamp and snap it into place. Plug in your lamp and you're done! If you want to know how to replace a cord switch, keep reading!

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