Light Switch Replacement in Warsaw — Quick and Reliable

The switch clicks but the light does not come on. Or the opposite — the rocker sticks and will not stay in position. The housing has darkened; there is a smell of burnt plastic behind the frame. These are signs the switch needs replacing. In buildings on Ursynow and Wola we often find switches that are 20–30 years old — the mechanism is worn, contacts burnt out, plastic brittle. Replacement takes half an hour and gives you a reliable, safe switch.

How much does replacement cost

The price depends on the switch type (single, double, two-way) and the condition of the wiring. If the cables are fine and the back box is intact, it is a quick mechanism swap. If cables are short or damaged, extra work is needed. The new switch is supplied by the client. Current prices are in the table below.

How the replacement works

1. Isolation: we switch off the breaker and confirm no voltage with a tester.
2. Removing the old switch: we take off the rocker and frame, unscrew the mechanism and disconnect the cables.
3. Wiring check: we inspect cable condition, insulation and back box.
4. Connecting the new switch: we strip the cables, connect to terminals and secure the mechanism.
5. Fitting the frame and rocker.
6. Testing: we switch the breaker on and verify the light turns on and off cleanly with no delay.

Common mistakes during replacement

• Replacing without isolating the circuit — the most serious mistake, risk of electric shock.
• Swapping live and neutral — the switch breaks neutral while live stays permanently on the lamp. Dangerous when changing a bulb.
• Loose terminal screws — the connection heats up and starts arcing over time.
• Buying the wrong type: single instead of double, standard instead of two-way.
• Not checking back-box compatibility — the new mechanism does not fit the old box.

Warning: replacing a switch is electrical work. Incorrect wiring can cause a short circuit, damage to the installation or fire. If in doubt, call a professional.

What to prepare

• Buy the new switch — confirm the type: single, double or two-way.
• Locate the consumer unit — the technician needs to isolate the circuit.
• If the switch controls several lights, explain how (all together or in groups).
• If you want a dimmer instead of a standard switch, mention it in advance — we need to check lamp compatibility.

A real case from Warsaw

We were called to Ursynow: a double switch in the hallway had stopped working — one rocker did not turn on the light, the other stuck. We removed the switch — the contact on the first circuit was completely burnt out and the spring on the second rocker had snapped. The switch was about twenty years old; repair was pointless. We fitted a new double switch; the cables were in decent shape — we stripped the ends and reconnected. Both circuits worked perfectly. We also swapped the frame, which had yellowed with age.

Frequently asked questions

Can I swap a single switch for a double?
Only if three cables run to the point (live plus two outgoing to different lamp groups). If there are only two, an extra cable needs to be run.

What is a two-way switch?
A switch that controls a light from two locations — for example, on at one end of a corridor and off at the other. Replacement requires exactly the same two-way mechanism.

Can I fit a dimmer instead of a standard switch?
Yes, provided the lamps are dimmable. Non-dimmable LEDs will flicker or fail to work. Check the lamp markings.

How long does replacement take?
One switch — 20–30 minutes. If the back box needs replacing — up to 45 minutes.

The switch clicks but the light flickers — is it the switch or the bulb?
Usually a poor contact in the switch. But it could also be the bulb. The technician will test and identify the cause.

Book a switch replacement

We replace switches across Warsaw — single, double, two-way and illuminated. We check the wiring, tighten contacts and swap back boxes as needed. Get in touch — we will replace it in a single visit.