How to Add a Wall Switch to Light Fixture Controlled by a Chain

Adding a wall switch to a light fixture controlled by a chain can be a convenient way to control the light without having to reach up to the fixture. Here are the steps to do this:

1. Turn off the power supply to the light fixture by switching off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse.

2. Remove the light fixture from the ceiling or wall and disconnect the wires from the chain switch.

3. Run a new electrical wire from the light fixture to the location of the wall switch. Use a fish tape or a coat hanger to run the wire through the walls or ceiling.

4. Connect the black wire from the new wire to the black wire from the light fixture. Connect the white wire from the new wire to the white wire from the light fixture. Connect the green or bare wire from the new wire to the ground wire from the light fixture.

5. Install a single-pole switch box at the location of the wall switch. Connect the black wire from the new wire to the switch's hot terminal, which is typically identified with a black screw. Connect the white wire from the new wire to the switch's neutral terminal, which is typically identified with a silver screw. Connect the green or bare wire from the new wire to the switch's ground terminal, which is typically identified with a green screw.

6. Mount the switch into the switch box and attach the switch plate.

7. Reattach the light fixture to the ceiling or wall and connect the black wire from the fixture to the black wire from the new wire. Connect the white wire from the fixture to the white wire from the new wire. Connect the green or bare wire from the fixture to the green or bare wire from the new wire.

8. Turn on the power supply to the light fixture by switching on the circuit breaker or replacing the fuse.

Your light fixture should now be controlled by the chain as well as the wall switch. If you prefer to disable the chain switch, you can simply remove it from the fixture.