Can I change this switch?

groston · May 19, 2022

I recently had reason to look at the switch in my garage that controls the outdoor garage lights. This picture shows how the switch is wired and I haven't the foggiest idea of why a neutral wire runs to the switch. Note that this wiring was done by the house's builder about 20 years ago. (Note that the on/off note shows voltage measurements I took.)

[ElectriciansForums.net] Can I change this switch?

Simple question: Can I replace this switch with a two port switch, i.e., one that does not connect with the neutral wire, and expect the light to keep working?
Possibly trickier: If you could explain the purpose the the neutral wire, that would be great.

James · May 19, 2022

a 2 port switch will be fine, just park the spare N in a wire nut and leave tucked in the back of the box.

the N will come in handy if at some point in the future you want to use a smart switch instead or a sensor switch.

westward10 · May 19, 2022

Are you 100% certain that is how it is configured and it is not three way switched and the white is not a traveler.

James · May 19, 2022

@westward10 has made a good point, if in fact it is a 3 way switch then by following my instructions above, when someone operates the other switch that controls the light, the new switch you install will not work.