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. When wiring a 3 way switch first screw the terminal screws of the new switch until they are difficult to turn.
3 Way Switch Wiring Diagram
Wiring for 3 way light switch. Wall switches used to control ceiling light fixtures or other fixtures come in three types. Wiring of 3 way light switches 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. 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. Fixture between two three way switches. Wiring a 3 way light switch.
Connect the two remaining traveler wires to the two brass or light colored screws. 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. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. With a pair of 3 way switches either switch can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. The ground wire is pigtailed with a wire connector at the switch boxes and the ceiling box. Wiring a three way light switch.
For example a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three way. Connect the ground wire to the green screw. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. 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. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. 3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box.
Connect the wire marked common to the black or dark colored screw. Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram. 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. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. First run a 2 wire cable from the wall power to the black screw on 1 of the switches. Regardless of what 3 way switch wiring diagram youre following youll need to use a 3 wire cable to connect the two 3 way light switches.
So what you should see if you have correct 3 wire electrical cable romex is a black power white neutral and now a 3rd red wire.
Gallery of Wiring For 3 Way Light Switch
