2 gang dimmer switch to 1 gang.

[dano2808]

Hello, I need some advice again if i may.
I have a 2 gang dimmer switch i'd like to fit in place of a brass 1 gang 1 way switch, only have/need 1 switch in the room. The instructions are a bit vague - to me.
Is it as simple as fitting the red wire to L1 & the black to L2 on 1 of the gangs? Or? seems logical, I'd go for it, but I'm alone this week, so if i blow myself up, no one will miss me for about 4 days ha ha.

Regards, Dan.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

What do the instructions say?

Unfortunately there's no standard for how switch terminals are labelled, some use COM/L1/L2, some L1/L2/L3, and dimmers often use symbols.

What's on your existing switch and what's on the dimmer?

And why did you buy a 2-gang one to replace a 1-gang switch?

if i blow myself up, no one will miss me for about 4 days ha ha

Turn the heating off before you start - that way if you do blow yourself up you won't start to smell ha ha.

 

[dano2808]

Thanks, The instructions say, connect live wire into the connectors L1, L2. screw the frame onto the rear box installed inside of the wall. Aside from refitting it to the wall, Thats it.
On the new switch itself, simply 2 blocks each labelled L1 & L2. Cant upload pics here, so have put one of the new switch in my profile photo album.
My exsisting switch looks 2 gang I THINK, has the red wire to 2 com inter and red 2 top no markings on either. both the 1 wire slots are free.
Was given the switch.So thought i'd put it to use!
This is the switch I'm trying to install. http://www.vinsani.com/pd-heartbeat-2-gang-1-way-stainless-steel-touch-light-switch.cfm


Regards.

 

[sparkyspike]

Are you confusing terms? 2-gang means two separate switches. 2-way means one switch with 2 switch outputs.