Click! The switch is open, allowing current to flow through the light bulb, and the lamp is on. Click again, the current has been cut, and the lamp is off. We take switches for granted but if you have ever remodeled a room, you know that it takes some thought to choose the right kind of switches because there are many, many variations on the standard switch from which you can choose.

For example, you may want a three-way switch that will turn lights off and on from either end of a hallway or staircase. Or you may want to install dimmer switches so you can tailor light levels and energy usage according to your needs. An occupancy sensor switch that automatically turns on the lights when you enter a room and turns them off when you exit can be exceptionally convenient. Or you may want something much more sophisticated, such as a central lighting control.

In this section of HomeTips, we discuss the switch options available, how to install them, and do your own repairs.