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How to Wire Three Way Switches Part 2
3Way Switch Wiring Diagrams
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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. |
Understanding 3 Way Switches
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.
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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
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3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #4 above, shows the electric circuit source power starting at the lower 3-way switch. |
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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. |
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