One of the common reasons homeowners contact a professional electrician is because a light switch isn't working right. The light may simply not illuminate, or the switch itself might be producing heat or a buzzing noise. It is a familiar occurrence, and below are some common causes.

What Are Some Possible Reasons Why Your Light Switch Does Not Work?

1. A Tripped Breaker

Perhaps the most common reason for a non-functioning light switch is that the circuit breaker governing the switch has tripped. Breakers are located in the house's main electrical panel, and each one typically controls individual rooms or sections of the home. 

Before you call an electrician for repairs, check the breaker box to see if any of the switches have tripped to "Off." This can happen due to an overloaded circuit, and the shutoff could affect all the switches and electrical outlets in the room. 

2. Loose Wiring

A light switch is typically a mechanical device that connects to household wiring and either completes or interrupts an electrical circuit. The light illuminates when the circuit is completed and shuts off when the circuit is broken. If the wiring to the switch has loosened or come unattached, the circuit cannot be completed and the light remains off. 

Alternatively, you may experience a flickering light as the wire makes and loses contact. This is often a simple fix, and can be repaired by turning off the relevant circuit breaker, removing the switch plate, and reattaching the wire to the switch with a screwdriver.

3. A Faulty Switch

In some cases, the switch mechanism itself may be broken. When you flick the switch, it does not close the circuit that allows the light to come on. This repair is more complicated and requires the switch to be removed entirely and replaced with one that is working. If you are handy, you should be able to perform the repair in under an hour, although it is an inexpensive task if you prefer to hire an electrician to do it for you.

If you need an electrician to repair a faulty light switch or install new wiring, contact the professionals at Gutridge Electric in Newark, OH. They are family-owned and have served Licking County since 1983. They provide residential, commercial, and industrial electrical services, with specialties in generators, breaker boxes, and more. They are well-known throughout the region for their dependable work, friendly service, and competitive pricing. Learn more about them on their website or call (740) 349-7624 to consult with an experienced electrician about your residential electrical needs.