Replacing a dimmer with on/off switch

[Deleted User]

I wanted to get rid of my kitchen dimmer switch and replace it with just a on/off switch. I thought I could buy a new switch and do a straight swap, but now I’ve realised that dimmer switches (3 switches) are rectangle shaped and the on/off switches are square shaped. 

So, I can’t do a straight swap without then trying to fill in gaps, is that right?

Thanks 

FreeBear

Depending on the size of the back box, a modular grid switch may be suitable. Peruse some examples here - https://www.screwfix.com/c/electrical-lighting/grid-modular-wiring/cat830532

Looks like you can get a triple switch face plate, but you'd nee to check to make sure it will fit your back box.

grumbler

Alternatively google 'twin plate switch', but grid/modular is likely to be cheaper.

[Deleted User]

Ahh, I was hoping for a like for a like swap. I can barely change a light bulb, so I really am clueless with all things electrical. 

I think I’ll stick with the dimmers for now. Thanks guys 

grumbler

'twin plate switch' (3 gang) is likely to be 'like for like', but for some reason they are very expensive.

'Grid' option is pretty straightforward too, but will require some extra short wires between single switches.

ChilliBob

I need to do the same thing in one of my rooms, I have a hue bulb and if on and dimmed rather than full brightness the hue bulb flickers like crazy! I figured I'd just turn lighting ring off upstairs, remove taking note of cables with a phone pic, then replace eith standard on off switch variant.

This sounds mental, but could the op mark the position of a standard triple switch on the larger back box... Fill the back box with something - small plwood box perhaps, then screw the conventional three gang switch to it? Fill over the top then repaint?

I suppose if DIY is limited this is perhaps ott. Also, it's probably a horrendously crap idea, but yeah, I wonder what anyone thinks lol

prowla

ChilliBob said:

I need to do the same thing in one of my rooms, I have a hue bulb and if on and dimmed rather than full brightness the hue bulb flickers like crazy! I figured I'd just turn lighting ring off upstairs, remove taking note of cables with a phone pic, then replace eith standard on off switch variant.

This sounds mental, but could the op mark the position of a standard triple switch on the larger back box... Fill the back box with something - small plwood box perhaps, then screw the conventional three gang switch to it? Fill over the top then repaint?

I suppose if DIY is limited this is perhaps ott. Also, it's probably a horrendously crap idea, but yeah, I wonder what anyone thinks lol

I found that with one Hue bulb, so I just tweaked the brightness level a bit in the app and now it doesn't flicker.

prowla

You may be able to get an anti-smear backing plate to fit around it and cover the gaps.

ChilliBob

prowla said:

ChilliBob said:

I need to do the same thing in one of my rooms, I have a hue bulb and if on and dimmed rather than full brightness the hue bulb flickers like crazy! I figured I'd just turn lighting ring off upstairs, remove taking note of cables with a phone pic, then replace eith standard on off switch variant.

This sounds mental, but could the op mark the position of a standard triple switch on the larger back box... Fill the back box with something - small plwood box perhaps, then screw the conventional three gang switch to it? Fill over the top then repaint?

I suppose if DIY is limited this is perhaps ott. Also, it's probably a horrendously crap idea, but yeah, I wonder what anyone thinks lol

I found that with one Hue bulb, so I just tweaked the brightness level a bit in the app and now it doesn't flicker.

Nice, I may give thay a try. These hue bulbs are good but they can confuse people when it comes to normal light switches! I actually find they work best so far with sensors! 

[Deleted User]

ChilliBob said:

This sounds mental, but could the op mark the position of a standard triple switch on the larger back box... Fill the back box with something - small plwood box perhaps, then screw the conventional three gang switch to it? Fill over the top then repaint?

I suppose if DIY is limited this is perhaps ott. Also, it's probably a horrendously crap idea, but yeah, I wonder what anyone thinks lol

This is exactly what I wanted to avoid. Probably doable for most people, but not for me I’m afraid  😂 

[Deleted User]

I’ve found some twin plate switch online. So my question now is, would the wiring be like for like? 

I don’t do any diy. So if I opened the back of both switches, is it identical enough for me to Be able to tell and swap the wires over like for like? Or should I not bother because buying and returning things online is more hassle then going to a store?