The wiring method will. Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable.

3 Way Switch Wiring Diagrams Do It Yourself Help Com
Wiring a 3 way switch. 3 way switches are useful for large rooms with multiple entrances but require a bit more wiring than a standard single pole switch. Each 3 way switch in these examples are controlling the power source to the same load. Power through switch light is controlled by two three way switches with the light between the switches and the power first going through a switch then to the light and onto the second three way switch. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. Traveler wires are interchangeable. Then a 4 wire cable going between the two 3 way switches and then a 3 wire cable going from the switches to the load.
Three wire cable runs between the switches and 2 wire cable runs to the light. 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. A 3 way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches. When wiring a 3 way switch circuit we will be using a 3 wire cable known as romex coming from the source such as the breaker box. Connect the wire marked common to the black or dark colored screw. Connect the two remaining traveler wires to the two brass or light colored screws.
With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box. First run a 2 wire cable from the wall power to the black screw on 1 of the switches. The black and red wires between sw1 and sw2 are connected to the traveler terminals. Connect the ground wire to the green screw. While wiring a 3 way switch is more involved than something simple like installing an electrical box for an electric fireplace the task can be simple enough if you follow along with these instructions.
A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together. 3 way switch 2 3 way wire which has black white and red coated wires and of course a copper ground wire. Wiring a 3 way light switch. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. 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.
The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. 3 way switch wiring diagram. Fixture between two three way switches. Wiring diagram 3 way switch with light at the end. When wiring a 3 way switch first screw the terminal screws of the new switch until they are difficult to turn. The ground wire is pigtailed with a wire connector at the switch boxes and the ceiling box.
In this diagram the electrical source is at the first switch and the light is located at the end of the circuit. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.