The Key to Wiring Three Way Switches
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My three way switches do not work right, how can I fix this? The key to wiring three way switches, Identifying the electric wiring. © By: Dave Rongey |
Three Way Switches
Electrical Question: My three way switches do not work right, how can I fix this?
- I have a 3 way switch for inside lights and an outside light switch in the same box. However, the outside light will not work unless the inside lights on the 3 way switch is on, either of the 3 way switches can be on, as long as the lights are on. Is this standard?
- Should there be a way inside the switch box to change the wiring to allow the light switches to work independently of each other.
- I have 4 sets of wires coming in or going out of the box.
- I would think 1 to the other 3 way, a second to the outside light, third would be power.
- The 4th wire may go to the inside lights.
This electrical question came from: Tom, a Homeowner from Butler, Pennsylvania.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Tom.
How to Wire Three Way Switches
Application: Wiring Three Way Light Switches.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best installed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools and Voltage Tester.
Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience and ability to work with tools.
Precaution: Identify the lighting circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.
Notice: Installing additional 3-way switch wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Materials: Make sure replacement 3-way light switches have the same amperage and voltage rating as the original three way light switch, and is the switch is fully compatible with the electrical circuit, the light fixture and the type of light bulbs being used.
Wiring Three Way Switches
NOTE: There are several 3way switch wiring scenarios that are possible however, the existing switch wiring must be identified so that the right three way switch wiring configuration can be made in order for the 3-way switches to work correctly.
The Key to Three Way Light Switch Wiring
The key to wiring three way switching is to identify the following:
- Where the power enters, and at which switch box.
- Where the feed goes from the switch box up to the light fixture.
More about Wiring Three Way Switches
The Following Diagrams will assist you with Three Way Switches
How to Wire a Switch
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Diagrams for Wiring a Light Switches
- Wiring Diagrams
- Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring Diagrams. Detailed Electrical Wiring Diagrams and Pictures will help with your Home Electrical Projects.
- 3 Way Switch Diagram
3 Way Switch Diagram
- In response to the requests for this information, I have developed a comprehensive,step-by-step guide designed to walk you through the identification and wiring of your 3-way switches.
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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