Updating a Push-Button Light Switch

Q: My husband and I are proud owners of a 1920 Arts and Crafts bungalow with the original push-button light switches. We’d like to keep them, but are they safe? Should we replace them with more up-to-date versions?—Jennifer Pearce, Buffalo, NY

A: I’d recommend that you replace the original switches with new ones. Those switches were made with materials that may have become cracked, corroded, or fatigued in the last 100 years, and their design doesn’t meet today’s strict electrical safety standards. The newer switches do, as indicated by their “UL-Listed” mark.

Fortunately, you don’t have to give up on the two-button look, or the satisfying snap that the buttons make when you push them in. Replacement switches and cover plates that look just like the antique versions, right down to the mother-of-pearl inlay on the buttons, are available from specialty retailers such as House of Antique Hardware.

Thanks to: Jon Eaton, creative director, House of Antique Hardware

What Is a Push-Button Light Switch?

Push-button light switches are charming remnants of early 20th-century home design, often found in historic houses built between 1890 and 1940, the early days of residential electricity. While these vintage fixtures add character to older homes, they can also present safety concerns and have poor functionality. This guide will help you assess the safety of your push-button switches and provide ideas for updating them while maintaining their classic, vintage look.

Assessing the Safety of Push-Button Switches

Many antique switches still installed today have been in use for nearly a century, potentially compromising their reliability and safety. Major changes in electrical codes and safety standards have occurred since the 20th century. As newer switch designs became available and safer to use, push-button switches gradually fell out of favor in new constructions and renovations.

Common Safety Concerns

Vintage push-button switches can pose several safety risks:

• Deterioration of internal components
• Lack of modern safety features
• Potential for electrical arcing
• Incompatibility with current electrical codes

Signs Your Switch Needs Replacement

Look out for these indicators that your push-button switch may need to be replaced:

• Visible cracks, warping, or damage to the switch plate or buttons
• Loose or wobbly buttons
• Intermittent operation or flickering lights
• Unusual noises when operating the switch
• Signs of overheating or discoloration around the switch

If you find any of these issues, you should consider replacing your antique switch with a safer, newer type.

Evaluating Your Home’s Electrical System for Light Switch Updates

When updating your push-button switches, assess the overall condition of your home’s electrical system, especially if your home is older or historic.

Check the Main Service Panel

Start by examining your main electrical panel:

• Look for a modern circuit breaker panel rather than an outdated fuse box.
• Ensure the panel has adequate capacity for your home’s electrical needs.
• Check for any signs of overheating, corrosion, or damage.

If you find any issues with your main panel, consult a licensed electrician for a professional assessment and any potential upgrades or repairs.

Assess the Wiring Condition

Inspect the wiring connected to your push-button switches and throughout your home:

• Look for cloth-covered wires with cracking rubber insulation, which indicates outdated wiring.
• Check for any exposed wires or damaged insulation.
• Be wary of aluminum wiring, which was common in homes built between 1965 and 1973 and can pose fire risks.

If you discover any of these issues, you should consider a whole-house rewiring project to maintain the safety of your electrical system.

Modern Alternatives to Antique Push-Button Light Switches

Fortunately, homeowners can maintain the vintage look of push-button switches while benefiting from modern safety features and upgrades.

Replica Push-Button Switches

Several manufacturers produce replica push-button switches that closely mimic the appearance of antique models. These modern versions offer:

• UL-listed safety certification
• Compatibility with current electrical codes
• Improved durability and longevity
• Dimming and multi-way switching

Contemporary Push-Button Options

For those seeking a blend of vintage style and modern technology, consider these switch options:

• Smart push-button switches with WiFi connectivity
• Illuminated push-button switches for improved visibility
• Combination push-button and rotary dimmer switches

These modern alternatives allow homeowners to preserve the charm of push-button switches while enjoying the benefits of current technology for efficiency.

How To Replace an Antique Push-Button Switch

Replacing an antique push-button switch with a modern replica or contemporary one is a relatively straightforward process for those with basic electrical knowledge. However, it’s always best to consult a licensed electrician if you’re unsure or not confident about working with electrical components.

In the video below, master electrician Heath Eastman walks through installing an antique light switch.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gather these tools and materials before beginning the replacement:

• Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• Wire strippers
• Voltage tester
• New push-button switch
• Wire nuts
• Electrical tape

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

1. Turn off the power to the switch at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the switch plate cover.
3. Test the wires with a voltage tester to ensure no power is present.
4. Unscrew the old switch from the electrical box.
5. Carefully disconnect the wires from the old switch, noting their positions.
6. Connect the wires to the new switch, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Secure the new switch in the electrical box.
8. Reattach the switch plate cover.
9. Restore power at the circuit breaker and test the new switch.

Maintaining the Look of Your Historic Home

When updating push-button switches and switchplates, consider the overall aesthetic of your historic home. Choose hardware that preserves the character of your space while improving utility and safety.

Period-Appropriate Switches and Switchplates

Look for hardware that matches the era of your home to keep that authentic feel:

• For Victorian or Edwardian homes, consider ornate brass or porcelain push-button switches.
• Arts and Crafts or bungalow-style homes often feature simpler designs with dark finishes.
• Mid-century homes might benefit from sleeker, more modern push-button styles.

Modern Technology meets Vintage Style

You can blend old-world allure with modern technological conveniences to create balance with these ideas:

• Use smart push-button switches that can be controlled via smartphone apps.
• Install wireless light switches in areas where running new wiring is impractical.
• Choose dimmer switches with a push-button design for added functionality.

When To Call a Professional Electrician to Replace a Push-Button Light Switch

While some homeowners may feel comfortable replacing a simple light switch, there are situations where professional help is necessary.

Complex Wiring Situations

Consult an electrician if you see the following:

• Multiple switches controlling the same light (three-way or four-way switches)
• Unfamiliar wire colors or configurations
• Signs of previous DIY work that doesn’t meet code requirements
• The need to run new wiring for additional switches or fixtures

Whole-House Electrical Upgrades

Consider hiring a professional for larger electrical projects, such as:

• Upgrading your main service panel
• Rewiring your entire home
• Installing new circuits for modern appliances or home additions
• Implementing whole-house surge protection

A licensed electrician with experience in older homes can make sure that all work meets current safety standards and local building codes.

Preserving Integrity in Historic Homes

Historic homes are relics that have stood the test of time. Preserving their architectural integrity while upgrading them to include modern conveniences is a delicate balance.

Authentic Restoration Practices

Authenticity is key when restoring historical features. Seek materials and techniques appropriate for your home’s era. For example, if your home dates back to the early 1900s, consider reclaimed wood for repairs or restoration projects. Consult historical preservation societies or experts for guidance on accurate restorations.

Blending Old and New

Modernizing your historic home doesn’t mean sacrificing its character. You can integrate old technology and new advances seamlessly with a few thoughtful upgrades:

• Retrofit vintage lighting fixtures to accommodate LED bulbs
• Use historically accurate hardware for doors and windows
• Opt for paint colors that match the original palette of your home