A 4 way switch wiring diagram is the clearest and easiest way to wire that pesky 4 way switch. A 4 way switch has four terminals do not confuse with and purchase a 2 pole switch by mistake.
Wiring A 4 Way Switch
4 way electrical switch wiring diagram. Click here to access note. The electrical switch box that contains the line and load wires may need to be bigger than the other switch boxes especially if there are other wires going into the switch box. The 4 way is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations. For complete instructions on wiring a basic 4 way switch see our wiring a 4 way switch article. Typical 4 way switch wiring nm cable. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first 3 way switch and the first 4 way switch.
4 way switch not to be confused with a 2 pole switch. The switch can be used to control the electricity supplying lights from three locations. 4 way switch configurations are used to control lights with three or more switchesa 3 way switch is used on each end with one or more 4 way switches in between the two 3 way switchesthey do not have an onoff position like single pole switches. A 4 way switch has 4 terminals or poles. If more than three switches are needed simply place more 4 way switches between the three way switches. More 4 way switch wiring diagrams four way switch wiring schematic.
4 way switch wiring 4 way switches provide switching from three or more locations. Look for 4 way switch wiring diagram or step how to wire a four way light switch electrical circuit a 4 way switch is a double pole double throw dpdt switch. The 4 way terminals are labeled in and out two of each. As you will see most 4 way switch wiring is placed between the wiring of two 3 way switches therefore a 4way switch is installed with two 3way. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box. Study the 4 way switch and the manufacturers directions.
The 4 way is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations. I have a few of the most common ways in wiring a 4 way switch to help you with your basic home wiring projects. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. It is important to understand how these switches are wired before attempting to troubleshoot or replace. To view it at full size click on the diagram. Below is another method for wiring 4 way switches.
When the switch is operated current will either travel straight through or crisscross. Two terminalpoles are labeled in and two are labeled out pairs of wires called travelers will connect to each side. This diagram is a thumbnail. It has 4 terminals or poles and consists of two 3 way switches that are modified.
Gallery of 4 Way Electrical Switch Wiring Diagram
