How do I wire my 3-way switches?

In order to answer this question you must first identify the configuration of your existing wiring configuration including….

Electrical Question from billy about 3 Way Switch Diagram
Question: Do I connect a red wire to the white or black wire in a 3-way switch configuration?

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Billy. In order to answer this question you must first identify the configuration of your existing wiring, including where the power source enters and where the switch leg leading up to the light fixtures is. Then you identify the travelers which connect between the two 3-way switches. Fully explained wiring instructions and wiring diagrams can be found here in the 3 Way Switch area here in this website.
Just click the 3 Way Switch Diagram link below.

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3 Way Switch Diagram

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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
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Electrical Tip The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring! The Non-Contact Electrical Tester This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester, [amazon.com], I use for the detection of Standard 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.

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical 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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