Wiring a 3-Way Switch

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

Here is a link to some visual wiring diagrams that should help you.
3-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams

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