The 2 way switch or single pole double throw switch is a three terminal switch. The three way switch is a variation of the standard single pole switch which controls a light only from one locationa third type is the four way switch which is used in conjunction with two three way switches to control lighting from more than two locationsthis configuration may be used in open plan homes or in large kitchens or great rooms where a central bank of lighting fixtures might.
Insteon Switches Or Dimmers In 3 Way And 4 Way Circuits
Can you use a 2 way switch for 3 way. Now lets look at the 3 way switch. A three way wall switch is single pole double throw spdt with three connection wires and is typically wired with 123 or 143 cable between the two switches. A three way switch has no marking because there is no consistent on or off position. Here 1 terminal is the input and the other two are used as outputs. Its likely youll also need to replace the existing switch box with a larger one to accommodate the extra wires for the 3 way switch. Its okay if this is too complex for you.
Actually since the other switch is buried as you say you can just use the existing 3 way switch as it is. You may be surprised with what you have overlooked. If its reverse on the active switch simply switch the two contact wires and leave the common wire as it is. Well break it down pretty soon. A three way switch is designed to work in tandem with another three way switch to allow you to control a fixture from two different locations. Feed a length of 14 3 type nm cable or 12 3 if youre connecting to 12 gauge wire between the two boxes.
Take a look at the switches in your home. Converting a two way light switch to a three way light switch is a great way to solve common problems with light switching. A regular two way switch allows a user to turn on the lights at one location only while the three way light switch allows you to turn the lights on and off at two locations with ease. Quick tip 15 garage door safety. The convention is on for switch up. Add an electrical box for the second 3 way switch in the basement.
Two way switches are single pole single throw spst with two connection wires and are wired with 122 or 142 cable between the switch and fixture. For this reason it doesnt have onoff markings because it can turn off the power when it is both up and down depending on the orientation of the other switch. The on off can change depending on the position of the second three way switch.
Gallery of Can You Use A 2 Way Switch For 3 Way
