How to fix a pull string light switch

Pull string light switches are common in many homes, especially in older ones. These switches are easy to operate and require no special tools or knowledge. However, over time, they can become damaged or worn out, making it difficult to turn the light on or off. If you're having trouble with your pull string light switch, don't worry, as it is a simple fix that you can do on your own.

Before you start fixing your pull string light switch, make sure you turn off the power to the fixture. You don't want to get electrocuted while you're working on the switch. To do this, go to your circuit breaker panel and turn off the switch that controls the lights in the room you're working in.

Once the power is off, you can start inspecting the pull string light switch. The first thing you need to do is remove the cover plate. This is usually held in place by two screws. Once you remove the cover plate, you will see the switch mechanism.

The switch mechanism consists of a metal bracket that holds the switch in place, a pull string that is attached to the switch, and a spring mechanism that allows the switch to snap back into place after you turn the light on or off.

The most common problem with pull string light switches is that the string can become detached from the switch. This is usually due to wear and tear over time. To fix this problem, you will need to reattach the string to the switch.

To do this, you will need to remove the switch from the metal bracket. This is usually done by removing a small screw that holds the switch in place. Once you remove the screw, you can slide the switch out of the bracket.

Once you have the switch out of the bracket, you will need to reattach the string. To do this, tie a knot at the end of the string and then thread it through the hole in the switch. Once the string is through the hole, tie another knot on the other side of the switch to hold it in place.

After you have reattached the string, you can slide the switch back into the metal bracket and secure it with the screw. Once the switch is back in place, you can test it to make sure it works properly.

If the switch still doesn't work, you may need to replace the spring mechanism. This is a bit more complicated, but it can be done with some patience and a bit of know-how.

To replace the spring mechanism, you will need to remove the switch from the bracket as before. Once you have the switch out of the bracket, you will need to remove the old spring mechanism.

To do this, you will need to carefully pry the old spring mechanism off of the switch. This can be a bit tricky, as the spring is under tension and can fly off if you're not careful. Once you have removed the old spring mechanism, you can replace it with a new one.

To install the new spring mechanism, you will need to slide it onto the switch and then carefully bend the tabs on the side of the mechanism to hold it in place. Once the new spring mechanism is in place, you can slide the switch back into the metal bracket and secure it with the screw.

You can replace the cover plate and turn the power back on to the fixture. Test the switch to make sure it works properly.

Fixing a pull string light switch is a simple task that can be done by anyone with a bit of knowledge and patience. The most common problem with these switches is that the string can become detached from the switch, but this can be easily fixed by reattaching the string. If the switch still doesn't work, you may need to replace the spring mechanism, which is a bit more complicated but can still be done on your own. With these tips, you'll be able to fix your pull string light switch in no time.