Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. For example a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three way.
How To Wire A 3 Way Light Switch Family Handyman
How do you wire a three way light 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. Wiring a 3 way light switch. Heres how to wire a three way switch with easy tips from the family handyman. A three way light switch is one where you have two switches that have the ability to control the same light or set of lights. To wire a 3 way light switch youll need 2 3 way light switches 2 2 wire non metallic cables 1 3 wire non metallic cable and 2 6 inch grounding wires. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.
With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram. Most common is the single pole switch the type used to control a light fixture from a single locationthe next most common is the three way switch which is commonly used to control a light fixture from two different locations. First run a 2 wire cable from the wall power to the black screw on 1 of the switches. Therefore the 2 switches the light 3 way. Today we give you the tools knowledge to remove and install a 3 way light switch without electrocuting yourself.
Two three way switches control one light with the electric power coming through the first switch flowing to the second switch and then to the light fixture. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. The ground wire goes through both switch boxes and the ceiling light box and it is connected at all junctions except the light with a pigtail short piece of wire and wire connector. There will be an additional wire needed often red to connect the switches together to a dedicated screw or input on the switch that is specifically marked for this purpose. Wall switches used to control ceiling light fixtures or other fixtures come in three types. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram.
Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram.
Gallery of How Do You Wire A Three Way Light Switch
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