Quick answer
You can add a small brass push button fixture switch to your existing ceiling light by wiring it into the hot wire near the fixture. This lets you control the light without a wall switch.
What you need to know before starting
Adding a fixture switch is a simple way to control a ceiling light that doesn't have a wall switch. The switch mounts on the fixture's canopy or backplate, so you'll need access to the wiring inside the junction box.
Keep in mind that installing a fixture switch adds about 0.25 inches to the thickness of a wooden backplate. Make sure your canopy has enough clearance to accommodate the extra depth.
This project requires basic electrical knowledge. Always turn off power at the breaker before working on any wiring.
Step-by-step instructions
- Turn off power and remove the existing fixture: Switch off the circuit breaker for the ceiling light. Remove the light fixture from the ceiling, disconnecting the wires (hot, neutral, ground). Common mistake: Forgetting to test the wires with a voltage tester after turning off the breaker. Always confirm power is off.
- Prepare the fixture switch: Take your brass push button fixture switch. It will have two small terminals. Feed the switch wire through a small hole in the canopy or backplate, or mount it directly if the fixture has a pre-drilled hole. Check that the canopy can accommodate the 0.25" added thickness. If not, you may need a deeper canopy.
- Wire the switch in series with the hot wire: Identify the hot wire (usually black) from the ceiling junction box. Cut it and strip both ends. Connect one end to one terminal of the switch, and the other end to the remaining terminal. This places the switch in series so it can break the circuit. Common mistake: Wiring the switch on the neutral wire. The switch must be on the hot wire to work safely and correctly.
- Reconnect the fixture and test: Reconnect the fixture wires (hot, neutral, ground) using wire nuts. Secure the canopy over the junction box, making sure the switch is accessible. Turn the breaker back on and press the switch to test. If the light doesn't work, double-check that the switch is wired in series and the connections are tight. Also ensure the bulb is functional.
Product used in this guide
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Add a Fixture Switch: Purchase this to add a small brass push button switch to your hardwired sconce. $15 per installation. Adding a fixture switch will increase the thickness of a wooden backplate by .25". This switch is an affordable way to add local control to a ceiling light without running new wires. The 0.25" thickness increase is important to check before installation.
Add a Fixture Switch