Rocker light switch not working?

Question

Hi - I have a set of two rocker switches installed on either side of my walk through closet. They alternately turn on/off the overhead lights. A couple of days ago, one of the switches took an extra push to turn all the way off. Today, neither of the switches will turn on the lights in the closet. Yes, all the light bulbs are fresh. Is there an easy way to troubleshoot the switches without calling an electrician? Thanks for your thoughts.

Note: I am not very handy, but can follow directions easily. Websites for help are welcome, as are your clear instructions. Thank you!

Answer 1

I think "extra push" is the key. Something probably broke inside the switch. If you're handy. Turn the breaker off first, then remove the switch. Take a picture or draw picture of how the wires are connected to the switch. Don't forget to note which color wire goes to which color screw on the switch. Yes there are two different color screws on the switch. Gold/brass and silver. Reconnect the wires, turn the breaker back on and try the switch. That should take care of the problem.Here you go

http://www.allabouthome.com/tips/electrical/wall_switches.html

This one is even better..lots of pictures
http://home.howstuffworks.com/how-to-do-home-electrical-repairs4.htm

Answer 2

Light switches are surprisingly easy to replace. Yours probably got worn out (some piece of the plastic probably broke off inside). Instead of calling an electrician, spend about $25 to get a home repair book. I have one and it really comes in handy. You don't have to do everything yourself, but the book really helps to understand the simple stuff.

So, when you get that book (or even look up replacing light switches on the internet), buy a new switch, follow all safety guidelines (number 1 priority!), turn off the power from the fuse box, and change out the switch.

Answer 3

Those switches are called "3 way switches." Unfortunately, there is no way, other than trying all combinations (between two switches) and taking it out and testing it with Volt-Ohm meter, to troubleshoot it.

They are not difficult to replace, if you are little on handy side. There is one common terminal and two other terminals. The wire that connected to the common on old switch connects to common on new one. Two other wires connects to available terminals. (not the green one)

Perhaps you can go to a home center and talk to people there about "3 way switches." Please note, normal switches are NOT what you need. Make sure you get 3 way kind.

Answer 4

Double check your connections Or try replacing the switch maybe it was fualty its self. Are any other lights or duplexs not working ? check the fuse pannel.And if you have two seperate switches controlling the same light check to make sure they are a 3 way switch and not a single pole.