Summary:
Continuing on with wiring three way switches, these next three wiring diagrams in this series will help you identify three more possibilities for wiring the power feed and the switch wiring that leads to the light fixture.
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The name "three-way" can be a somewhat misleading because there are only two switches that are used to turn on and off one or more light fixtures from two locations.
An electrician may understand that a three way switch is actually a single pole, double throw switch. What this means is that a three way switch has a common terminal which toggles power from the other two terminals.
A three way switch is unlike a single pole light switch because it does not have an ON or OFF position, and you will not see the ON and OFF markings on a three way switch.
Where are Three Way Switches most commonly used?
Examples where three way switches are found in residential homes:
Hallway Lighting
Install 3way switches at each end of the hallway.
Stairway Lighting
Install 3way switches at the upstairs and downstairs locations.
Garage lighting
Install a 3way switch in the garage, and inside the house.
3-Way Switch Wiring
3-Way Switching provides switching from two locations
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #4 above, shows the electric circuit source power starting at the lower 3-way switch.
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #5 above, shows the electric circuit source power starting at the light fixture box, and the switch wiring leads out to the two 3way light switches.
I have a 6 year old who is terrified to walk down the dark hallway at night to get to the bathroom. I wanted to switch out the 3-way switch for a 3-way dimmer switch so I can leave the light on but dimmed so the whole hallway is illuminated.
How to Install One or Two 3-Way Dimmer Switches: I have 4 kitchen ceiling lights that are currently controlled by two 3-way switches. I’d like to add a dimmer.
The Key to Wiring 3-Way Switches – The Power Feed and the Switch Leg leading to the fixture(s) typically, one at each switch location, are attached to the screw terminal found at one end of the switch by itself
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Learn more about How to Wire Outlets Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for the Homeowner, Handyman, Electrician and Building Inspector. Includes: Methods for Home Electrical Wiring Types of Light Switches and Lighting Controls How They are Wired Wiring Diagrams for Light Switches Wiring 3-Way Switches Wiring 4-Way Switches Wiring Dimmer Switches How to Make Your Own Light Fixtures ....and much more.
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Electrical Project Skill Level:
Beginner to Intermediate.
Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools and a Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level of experience, ability to work with hand tools used for wiring switches, and the available access to the project area. Electrical Safety:
Identify the lighting circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Electric Switch Parts and Materials:
Electrical parts and materials for wiring switches should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections:
Installing additional electrical wiring for light switches should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
This is a testing tool that is a Non-contact tester that I use to easily Detect Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.
This is great to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring, is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring.
It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets
Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency
Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included
Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect, Very handy and easy to use.
A wire stripping tool used to safely strip electrical wires.
This handy tool has multiple uses:
The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation.
The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.
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