Summary:
The key to three way switch wiring depends on two main factors. These first three wiring diagrams in this series will help you identify the power feed and the switch wiring leading to the light fixture.
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. This terminal
is usually identified by a darker colored screw.
The pair of screw
terminals at the opposite end of the switch are for the pair of
wires known as "travelers", (also known as "jockeys").
The "travelers" actually pass the electricity between
the two 3-way switches, as well as the 4-way switches, shown in
the 4-way switching wiring diagrams.
To illustrate the wiring of these 3-way switches, Switch Boxes and Fixture Boxes are not shown but are obviously required for every application.
These diagrams are shown as using the Type-NM wiring method.
Electrical Wiring and the Ground Conductor
The ground conductor is required for all applications as well. The ground conductors are always bonded together to insure the integrity of the ground path.
If you are using metal boxes, the ground conductor must be attached to each box by using a threaded ground screw or provided attachment.
The frames of the switches which have a ground screw are to be attached to the ground conductor as required.
3-Way Light Switch Wiring
3-Way Switching provides switching from two locations
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #1 above, shows that the electric circuit source power is located at the left side 3-way switch box. The cable wires lead to a second 3-way switch box on the right side.
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #2 above, shows the electric circuit power source comes into the light fixture box.
The white wire of the cable wiring is marked with black electrical tape, and is going to the switch. The other end of this wire is connected to the black wire of the light fixture in the light fixture box. The white wire marked with black tape becomes the energized switch leg.
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #3 above, shows the electric circuit source power located at the right 3-way switch box, and this switch box also has the cable that goes to the light fixture.
How to Connect Wires for 3-Way Light Switches – Both of the switches should be 3-way switches with the appropriate wiring installed between them, such as a 3-wire cable.
Wiring Three Way Switches – When adding additional lighting to an existing three way switch configuration, the only place the additional lights may be wired to are at the existing light fixture or to the switch box where the existing light fixture is wired to.
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.
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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.
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