By Dave Rongey Summary:
Electrical Switches Question:
I am installing switches and receptacles and i'm having trouble installing one 3-way switch.
How to Wire a 3Way Switch
Electrical Switches Question:
I had an electrician rough wire the lighting circuits in a basement finish.
I am installing the switches and receptacles.
I'm having trouble installing one 3-way switch. Both switch boxes have a hot feed.
How do I wire these switches?
Larry K.
Hi Larry - Great Electrical Repair Question!
There are a few ways that 3-way switches can be wired.
It is normal to have power at both switch boxes due to the nature of the switching, however your electrician may have carried power through to feed outlets as well where he could have included a white neutral which is not used for the 3-way switching
Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more.
Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.
Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
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