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I have an outlet on the wall of the stairs that has two switches (different sets of lights). The left switch was a round dimmer type switch. Push on/off and rotate to dim (infrequently used).

I snagged it with a package and broke the little round knob off (broke the metal pin, not just the knob coming off).

Would like to replace/fix it. Went to the local big box, but they did not have that sort of outlet or switch. And I hate those little slider dimmer things next to switches (always end up dimming when you don't want to).

Is there somewhere I can order a replacement part? (either pin or entire outlet)? Like on the Internet? [I have never done this...so sorry the stupid question...I just cried when Home Depot failed me.] Failing that, could I just make it two regular switches (no dimming)? I hate, hate the little slider things next to switch that always dim when you didn't mean to touch them.

Note: I am very home improvement, tools, and electricity stupid. Can follow directions though if I buy something and have put in new lights and stuff (with difficulty)

EDIT: After action. TLDR: replaced with a new switch, fine. Details: Thanks for the answer and comments. Tried the JB Weld (had to buy some), but no joy...it's got too much tangential forces on it and also, hard to clamp/hold the pieces to set properly. Rewiring was fine. I could have used a single pole, but the enclosed directions were clear on how to use it for single pole application. Thanks for the comments on pictures and breakers. Really easier than I expected!

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  • You could try a product like J-B weld and reattach it. If it does or doesn't work it would be a cheap try at repairing it. – JD74 Jun 16 '23 at 02:33
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    https://www.homedepot.com/b/Electrical-Wiring-Devices-Light-Controls-Dimmers/Rotary/N-5yc1vZc34iZ1z17kz0 – Aloysius Defenestrate Jun 16 '23 at 02:41
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    When you go to change the dimmer, take many pictures before you disconnect existing wires. Don't forget to turn off the breaker(s) for everything in the box. – Aloysius Defenestrate Jun 16 '23 at 02:43
  • Thanks for the answer and comment-answers. Will get the project done and then accept an answer. I hate non-Googlers, but was intimidated to specify what I was looking for...and of course the idio...I mean associate at Home Despot had told me "they don't make that anymore...". Love to just replace/fix the mechanical part. But will do the wiring if needed. Little worried that the 50 year later replacement (Even though looks same) may have different wires/connection points...had that happen with other things. TTYL and thanks for the newbie kindness. – Post as a guest Jun 16 '23 at 13:40
  • This looks like two switches to me, not an outlet. – Huesmann Jun 16 '23 at 13:41
  • Yeah...I realized an outlet and a switch are different things after starting to Google. Not so good at the terminology. Will know from now on. – Post as a guest Jun 16 '23 at 13:42

1 Answers1

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Easy to find on Amazon under “round dimmer switch”. You need to know if the switch you are replacing is “single pole” or “3-way”. Single pole means only this switch controls the light. 3-way means this switch and another switch both control the light.

This particular switch will work either way (but not all are like this): https://www.amazon.com/GE-Rotating-Dimmable-Incandescent-18020/dp/B002DNG3EE/ref=psdc_6291358011_t2_B002DN2PGY?th=1

TheRizza
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