Installing electrical outlets and switches is an essential skill for the do-it-yourselferโs toolbox. But electrical work can be daunting โ even dangerous โ if you’re inexperienced.
Fortunately for DIYers, the new Decora Edgeโข line of wiring devices from Levitonยฎ removes the guesswork, making the process faster, easier, and safer.
This article is sponsored by Leviton
What is Leviton Decora Edge?
The Decora Edge line includes a single-pole switch, a 3-way switch and a 15-amp tamper-resistant outlet.
Donโt speak โelectrician?โ In a nutshell, the Leviton Decora Edge is:
- A single pole switch controls the flow of electricity to just one light or load (such as a fan or garbage disposal). The light or load is switched on or off based on the position of the switch.
- A 3-way switch controls the flow of electricity from two separate locations; you can toggle the switch up or down from either location, or both switches can be toggled to the same position. An example would be a switch at the bottom and at the top of a staircase.
- A tamper-resistant outlet is an electrical receptacle with a safety feature that helps prevent the insertion of foreign objects to protect users from the risk of electrical shock.
Outlet or light switch installations involve connecting electrical wiring to the outlet or switchโs respective terminals and securing them to an electrical box using screws or mounting hardware.
Wrapping wires from the wall around the outlet or switchโs terminals can be time-intensive and confusing to the novice DIYer, which is why the Decora Edge line is particularly beneficial to people who may not be comfortable doing electrical work.
Each Edge deviceโs patent-pending color-coded lever terminals make wiring a snap โ literally!
The deviceโs Spring Action Lever Clamp terminals allow you to push each wireโs stripped ends into their correct openings. Then, just snap the levers shut โ no screws are necessary.
What You Should Know About Decora Edge
Decora Edge is ideal for retrofit and remodeling projects and its lever connectors are compatible with 14- and 12-gauge stranded and solid copper wire.
The line complies with the National Electrical Codeยฎ and is UL and CSA listed. (That means Underwriters Laboratories and the Canadian Standards Association have tested and certified these devices to meet North American safety and performance standards.) So, theyโre good to go โ in your home!
And all Decora Edge devices come with a 2-year limited warranty.
Just a couple of things to keep in mind:
โข These wiring devices are not compatible with aluminum wiring; if your home has aluminum wiring, you can only use devices rated CO/ALR. This abbreviation stands for โCopper/Aluminum revisedโ and indicates a device can connect with copper as well as aluminum building wires.
โข The spring action clamp is not the same as push-in wiring terminations.
If your homeโs wiring is compatible with these devices, read on!
Why Choose Decora Edge?
With Decora Edge, you won’t have to fiddle with confusing wiring setups. All you must do is push, click, and voila! You’re done.
All Decora Edge devices are designed with no exposed metal parts, which reduces the chances of electrical mishaps during proper installations.
And these devices come with other features that’ll make your life easier, including a larger strap with a unique tongue-and-groove alignment that makes multi-gang installations a breeze.
Never heard of those? Multi-gang setups let you install multiple electrical devices โ like outlets and switches โ in the same electrical box or frame.
In addition, the devices can be removed and rewired again if necessary. So, if you want to make changes or repairs to your electrical system in the future (and every homeowner knows thatโs a given), youโre covered.
Finally, all this function meets form factor! Decora Edge devices coordinate seamlessly with any size Decoraยฎ wall plate. (Decora is the hallmark Leviton brand of designer-styled devices, such as rocker light switches, that elevate a home from builder-grade to beautiful.)
How to Install Leviton Decora Edge Wiring Devices
Installing a Decora Edge outlet or switch is easy. First, make sure you have these items:
Tools
- Wire strippers
- Slotted/Phillips screwdriver
- Longnose pliers
- Voltage tester
Materials
- Decora Edge device
- Electrical box
- Wire connectors (if needed)
- Wall plate
Second, choose the device youโre installing for printable, illustrated instructions:
Third, take the following precautions:
- Turn off the power. Working on live wires can cause electrical shock, fire, or death. Switch off the circuit breaker or fuse to stop the flow of power to where youโll be working.
- Check for voltage. Use a voltage tester to confirm that no power is flowing to the wires before you begin working on them.
- Get the gear. You need the right tools for the job, and they must be in good condition. Inspect all wires and tools for damage and replace them as needed.
- Suit up! Always wear personal protective equipment like rubber-soled shoes, insulated gloves, and safety glasses or goggles when working with electricity.
- Use caution with metal. Never touch metal objects when working on electrical circuits and keep metal tools and jewelry away from live wires.
- Check for proper wiring. Make sure the wires are properly connected before turning the power back on.
Still need help? Visit Levitonโs support page to connect with Leviton Technical Service Representatives, share images or videos of the situation, and receive guided advice to diagnose or resolve issues.
You can also call their support line at 1-800โ824-3005 (USA) or 1-800-405-5320 (Canada).
Of course, if youโre just not comfortable working with electricity, call an electrician. Nothing is more important than your personal safety and the safety of the wiring in your home. Better to call a pro who knows:
Learn More
Ready to upgrade your outlets and light switches? You can find Decora Edge devices in-store at The Home Depot, or shop online now for these household essentials:
Happy home improving!