Step-by-Step Tutorial: Replacing Simon Electrical Switches & WAGO Wiring
Leroy Merlin-style technical guide for changing switches/sockets (Simon 82, Niessen), fixing LED flickering and safe wiring with WAGO lever nut connectors.
Informational Notice: This tutorial and its instructions are provided strictly for general educational and informational purposes. They do not constitute binding technical advice or formal engineering recommendations. If you lack prior experience or tools, we advise contacting a certified Handyman Tenerife professional.
Before You Begin: Safety Protocol
- Switch off the C10 (Lighting) or C16 (Sockets) circuit breaker at the main distribution panel.
- Verify COMPLETE ABSENCE of voltage between Live and Neutral wires using a multimeter before removing switch faceplate.
- Identify wiring color codes: Live (Brown/Black), Neutral (Blue), and Ground Earth (Green/Yellow).
📦 Materials Required
- ✓ 1x Complete electrical wall mechanism (Switch/Socket base, rocker & Simon trim plate)
- ✓ 3x WAGO 221 2-pole or 3-pole lever nut connectors
- ✓ 1x 0.47 µF 275V X2 anti-flicker capacitor (for LED lighting)
- ✓ 1x Standard 67mm flush wall box (if existing box is damaged)
🛠️ Recommended Tools
- 🔧 1000V VDE insulated electrician screwdrivers (Flat 3mm/4mm & PH1)
- 🔧 Digital multimeter CAT III 600V or non-contact AC voltage detector pen
- 🔧 Automatic precision wire stripper (11 mm strip gauge length)
- 🔧 1000V insulated diagonal wire cutters
📋 Step-by-Step Project Guide
1. Removing trim plate & unscrewing old mechanism
Pry off the decorative frame plate using a flathead screwdriver in the bottom slot. Loosen the 2 screws mounting the plate to the standard 67mm flush box. Carefully pull old mechanism out without yanking wires.
Take a clear smartphone photo of existing wiring before disconnecting anything to reference terminal positions.
2. Trimming oxidized copper & stripping to 11 mm
Disconnect wires by pressing release tabs or loosening terminal screws. Trim away oxidized copper ends. Strip exactly 11 mm of clean copper insulation using an automatic wire stripper.
Modern Simon push terminals require exactly 11 mm of bare copper; shorter strips lead to arc faults and loose connections.
3. Wiring new Simon switch/socket with WAGO lever clips
For sockets: connect Live (Brown) to terminal L, Neutral (Blue) to N, and Earth (Green/Yellow) to ground terminal. Use WAGO 221 lever clips for junction splits to bind wires safely.
WAGO lever nut connectors eliminate arc faults and heat buildup common with old screw terminal blocks.
4. Box mounting, level alignment & faceplate snap
Fold wires back into wall box in an 'S' shape. Level the metal mounting frame using your spirit level. Tighten the 2 side wall box screws and push the trim frame on until it clicks.
Avoid pinching wires behind the steel frame when driving screws; crushed insulation causes short circuits.
5. Load testing & LED ghosting anti-flicker fix
Switch circuit breaker ON at main panel. Test power load. If an LED lamp flickers or glows when switched OFF, wire a 0.47 µF capacitor across the lamp fitting terminal block.
The capacitor absorbs ghost induction voltage from parallel conduit wires, shutting off the LED 100% instantly.
📊 Technical Specifications Sheet
| Lighting circuit breaker | C10 Breaker (10 Amps - 1.5 mm² wire gauge) |
|---|---|
| Socket circuit breaker | C16 Breaker (16 Amps - 2.5 mm² wire gauge) |
| REBT wiring color codes | Live (Brown/Black), Neutral (Blue), Earth (Green/Yellow) |
| Recommended connector type | WAGO 221 spring lever nut connectors (screwless) |
🧹 Maintenance & Aftercare Tips
- Avoid plugging multiple high-wattage appliances into one extension block.
- Clean trim plates with a dry microfibre cloth; avoid alcohol sprays that yellow plastics.
❓ Frequently Asked Installation Questions
Q: Why does an LED bulb flicker or stay dimly lit when turned off?
A: This happens due to ghost voltage induction from parallel wires or because the switch cuts Neutral instead of Live. Wiring a 0.47 µF 275V X2 capacitor in parallel across the fitting eliminates ghosting.
Q: What is the difference between a simple switch, 2-way switch, and intermediate switch?
A: A simple switch operates a light from 1 point. A 2-way switch controls it from 2 points (e.g. hallway ends). An intermediate switch sits between two 2-way switches for 3 or more control points.
Prefer a professional handyman to install it for you?
Save time and tool costs. At Handyman Tenerife, we come equipped with professional materials and specialized anchors for your exact wall type.
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