The switch clicks, but the light stays off. Or the other way round — the rocker jams and will not hold its position. The housing has gone dark, and there is a burnt plastic smell behind the frame. These are clear signs the switch should be replaced. In buildings on Ursynow and Wola we regularly come across switches that are 20–30 years old — the mechanism is worn out, the contacts are burnt, and the plastic has turned brittle. The job takes about half an hour and leaves you with a safe, dependable switch.

How much does replacement cost

The cost depends on the kind of switch (single, double, two-way) and the state of the wiring. If the cables are in good condition and the back box is sound, it is just a fast mechanism change. If the cables are too short or damaged, more work is required. The new switch is provided by the client. Current prices are listed in the table below.

How the replacement works

1. Isolation: we turn off the breaker and check with a tester that there is no voltage.
2. Removing the old switch: we remove the rocker and frame, unscrew the mechanism, and disconnect the cables.
3. Wiring check: we inspect the cables, insulation, and back box.
4. Connecting the new switch: we strip the cable ends, connect them to the terminals, and fix the mechanism in place.
5. Fitting the frame and rocker.
6. Testing: we turn the breaker back on and make sure the light switches on and off properly with no delay.

Common mistakes during replacement

• Replacing it without isolating the circuit — the most dangerous mistake, with a real risk of electric shock.
• Mixing up live and neutral — the switch cuts the neutral while live remains permanently present at the lamp. Dangerous when changing a bulb.
• Loose terminal screws — the connection heats up and, over time, begins to arc.
• Buying the wrong type: single instead of double, standard instead of two-way.
• Skipping the back-box check — the new mechanism does not fit the old box.

Warning: replacing a switch is electrical work. Wrong wiring can lead to a short circuit, damage to the installation, or fire. If you are not sure, call a professional.

What to prepare

• Buy the new switch — make sure you confirm the type: single, double, or two-way.
• Find the consumer unit — the technician will need to isolate the circuit.
• If the switch controls several lights, explain how they work (all together or in groups).
• If you want a dimmer instead of a standard switch, say so in advance — we need to check whether the lamps are compatible.

A real case from Warsaw

We got a call to Ursynow: a double switch in the hallway had stopped working — one rocker would not switch the light on, and the other was sticking. We took the switch out — the contact on the first circuit was fully burnt out, and the spring on the second rocker had broken. The switch was about twenty years old, so repairing it made no sense. We installed a new double switch; the cables were in decent condition — we stripped the ends and connected them again. Both circuits worked properly. We also changed the frame, which had yellowed over the years (compatible with Legrand, Schneider Electric, ABB and similar).

Frequently asked questions

Book a switch replacement

We replace switches all over Warsaw — single, double, two-way, and illuminated. We check the wiring, tighten the contacts, and change back boxes when needed. Get in touch — we can replace it in one visit.