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. An example of three way switch wiring with the line and load in the same 4 square electrical box.
Quick Tip 16 Three Way Two Way Or One Way Switch
Three way wall switch wiring diagram. 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. Traveler wires are interchangeable. Wiring diagram 3 way switch with light at the end in this diagram the electrical source is at the first switch and the light is located at the end of the circuit. 3 way switch wiring diagram. Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box.
Wiring a 3 way light switch. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. For example a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three way. In the above diagram the white wire must be re identified as a hot wire at each switch location. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.
3 way switch wiring diagram with line and load in the same switch box. Wall switches used to control ceiling light fixtures or other fixtures come in three types. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. The white wire between switches is not being used as a neutral. Three wire cable runs between the switches and 2 wire cable runs to the light.
Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.
Gallery of Three Way Wall Switch Wiring Diagram
