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 guide highlights the procedures for replacing a broken 3 way electrical switch.
3 Way Switch With 2 Live Wires Electrical Diy Chatroom
How to wire a three way electrical light switch. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. 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. A three way switch is fundamentally different in its operation from a regular two way switch. You must completely forget about the notion of a switch being a simple openclosed circuit and look. A three way wall switch is a common type of light switch that makes it possible to control a ceiling light or other electrical fixture from two different locations in a room. 3 way switch 2 3 way wire which has black white and red coated wires and of course a copper ground wire electrical boxes of appropriate size to hold 3 way switch and wire.
Before proceeding make sure you are comfortable working with electrical wires and switches. First run a 2 wire cable from the wall power to the black screw on 1 of the switches. Wire cutters and strippers. For example a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three way. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. Standard and halogen bulbs require standard incandescent dimmers.
With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. 3 way light switch wiring diagram see below. 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. 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.
A few fluorescent lights can be dimmed with special dimmer switches but most cant. Wiring a 3 way light switch. Two 3 way switches are required in any 3 way application. Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram. A non contact voltage tester. A 3 way wall switch controls a common light or set of lights from two separate switch locations.
The purpose of a three way electrical switch knowing how to wire a three way lighting switch comes down to understanding the operation of this contraption. Buy a single pole switch if one switch controls the lights or a three way if you have two switches controlling the same lights. In a hallway or large room for example installing three way switches at both ends lets you turn the light fixture on or off from both locations.