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I have a dimmer switch that’s currently controlling a set of ceiling lights. I’d like to install smart bulbs in those light fixtures, which don’t play well with the dimmer.

Since I want power to the bulbs always on (and will be controlled with an independent smart switch/remote), can I remove the dimmer, and join and cap the two wires currently going into the dimmer switch?

Is there anything unsafe about that?

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  • If someone has turned off the lights via the remote function, how is someone who doesn't know about the remote function supposed to turn them on?
    – ThreePhaseEel
    Feb 12, 2020 at 4:30
  • Will there still be a light switch somewhere in the room which turns on a light of any kind with a simple hand motion? Any reason not to put such a switch in this location?
    – Harper - Reinstate Monica
    Feb 12, 2020 at 4:54
  • yeah, to be clear, the new switch would be right next to the old switch plate, so anyone would be able to use it. mostly wondering if there's anything electrically unsafe with doing that.
    – Alex Galonsky
    Feb 12, 2020 at 14:33
  • Yes, a "gang" box used for switches and outlets can be used to junction wires assuming you don't plan to drywall over the junction. Remove the unused switch(es) and buy an appropriate blank cover.
    – MonkeyZeus
    Feb 12, 2020 at 15:59

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There is nothing unsafe but may be a local fire code issue. I recently checked on my areas local code as I was asked to remove 4 bedroom switches and a living room area, similar to what you want.

The person I talked to said if the remote is not over the switch they can toggle the switch for a couple seconds and the lights respond. Although it is not a law yet the person I talked to said they are trying to get the required switch mandated to be hardwired and the “legal issue” will be based on the date the house was built. Low voltage remote switches will be allowed as long as hardwired.

There justification is the person in need of care had the remote and first responders could not activate the lights. She said responders getting injured on several occasions and the possibility that some patients have died because of delays due to darkness and tripping in the dark while responding.

She said today a switch is not fully defined for safety reasons and they are working on making hardwired a law. But at this time they recommend the type that located the new remote over the switch in the on position that if the remote is out the switch handle can be toggled.

After talking to the owner they decided to not remove the switches, however today it would not be in violation of former or electrical code.

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