A 4 way switch is always placed in between two 3 way switches. 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.
3 Way And 4 Way Wiring Diagrams With Multiple Lights Do It
4 way switch circuit diagram. For a discussion of how to wire such circuits see 3 way and 4 way light switches. 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. 4 way switch wiring 4 way switches provide switching from three or more locations. With 4 way switches you must read the manufacturers instructions or wiring diagram. A 4 way switch wiring diagram is the clearest and easiest way to wire that pesky 4 way switch. It has 4 terminals or poles and consists of two 3 way switches that are modified.
Study the 4 way switch and the manufacturers directions. They all must be between the two 3 way switches. Two wire cable is run from the light to sw1 and 3 wire cable runs between the three switches. The wiring connections on 4 way switches varies between manufacturers. First of all we need to go over a little basic terminology on switches. This allows you to control a load from other locations in addition to the 2 locations that a 3 way circuit provides.
How to wire a 4 way switch. That page and its links also discuss proper wire colors and several wiring alternatives. Wiring a 4 way switch is simply adding a switch to an already existing 3 way switch circuit. It is important to understand how these switches are wired before attempting to troubleshoot or replace. The center switch is 4 way switch while the outer two switches are 3 way. When the switch is operated current will either travel straight through or crisscross.
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. 4 way switch wring diagram. 4 way switch wiring with light first. Watch the 4 way switch video below and pay attention. This diagram illustrates wiring for a 4 way circuit with the electrical source at the light fixture and the switches coming after. If you understand how to wire a 3 way switch youll have no issues with a 4 way switch.
Two terminalpoles are labeled in and two are labeled out pairs of wires called travelers will connect to each side. A 4 way switch has 4 terminals or poles. Shown above is an animation of a circuit using three switches to control a light. Four way switch wiring instructions inside the switch packaging. I have a few of the most common ways in wiring a 4 way switch to help you with your basic home wiring projects. If more than three switches are needed simply place more 4 way switches between the three way switches.
Sometimes there is only a switch wiring diagram printed on the inside of the 4 way switch package box. You can have an indefinite number of 4 way switches in a circuit. The switch can be used to control the electricity supplying lights from three locations.
Gallery of 4 Way Switch Circuit Diagram
