The most basic three way switch setup has two switches that connect and control one light fixture like switches on either end of a hallway staircase or large living area. How to wire 3 way light switch step by step step 1.
3 Way Switch Wiring Electrical 101
3 way light switching. Turn the power off at circuit breaker. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. Its likely youll also need to replace the. The three way switch is a variation of the standard single pole switch which controls a light only from one location. There are several ways to install a 3 way light switch. A third type is the four way switch which is used in conjunction with two three way switches to control lighting from more than two locations.
A three way light switch is different than a traditional single pole light switch as it contains an extra screw to connect an extra wire. Three way switches are always used in pairs and include special wiring connections. Before you can install your new three way switch youll need to put an. Although a 3 way is one of the hardest electrical circuits to figure out its also one of the most useful. A 3 way light switch allows you to control a light source from two separate points. For example they can be arranged so that the feed cable runs to the first three way switch then to the light fixture box then to the second three way switch.
Three way switches allow for controlling a light fixture from two separate locations these are usually used at the top and bottom of a flight of stairs or at two different entrances to a room. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. The methods shown here are some of the safest and most versatile though not the only options. The first step in any electrical project is to make sure there is no. Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram. Install the correct electrical boxes.
Turn off the correct circuit at your electrical panel. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. This is known as the common screw and its usually black instead of brass or silver. 3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box. Three way switches can be wired in a number of different ways depending on where they are located relative to the light fixture in the circuit cable runs. Its likely youll also need to replace the.
In most cases the light. Either way complete these five steps for 3 way light switch wiring. Another dead giveaway of a three way switch is the absence of on and off markings. Add an electrical box for the second 3 way switch in the basement. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. No longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes 3 way switch wiring diagram light fixture between switchesline voltage enters the first 3 way switch outlet box light fixture is located between switch boxesno longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes.
Gallery of 3 Way Light Switching
