Wiring a 4-Way Switch
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How to Wire a 4 Way Switch: How do I install and wire a 4 way light switch for my hallway light fixtures. |
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4-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams
Electrical Question: How do I install and wire a 4 way light switch for my hallway light fixtures.
This electrical wiring question came from Melchor, a Electrician from Imus Cavite, Philippines.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Melchor.
How to Wire a 4 Way Switch
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate.
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.
Important: Installing additional fixture electrical wiring should be done with a permit and be inspected.
Hi Melchor, you will find wiring diagrams for 4-way switches and the electrical calculations area by following these links which will assist you with your electrical wiring project:
4 Way Switch Wiring
- Fully explained 4 way switch diagrams. 4-way switches are a convenient way to operate lighting fixtures from three or more locations.
- The electrical wiring adds additional wiring to the same principles of 3-way switching.
Planning and Installing Home Lighting
Home lighting articles covering recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, lighting terminology and more.
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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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Electrical TipThe Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis 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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Greetings-
Regarding a 4-way switch with two 3-way switches; Our home was built in 1956. The 4-way switch wiring diagrams don’t seem to correspond to our set up. I replaced one of the 3-way switches and now the system does not entirely work s it did. On that 3-way, there are 2 wires on the left side; the top wire is white & the bottom wire is black. On the right side, the one wire (on the bottom) is black. This was the original arrangement with the original 3 pole switch. Is there any chance that the new switch has any “internal differences?”
Your advice and guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Most Cordially– David Morris
Hi David,
As you know, 4-way switches are wired in conjunction with two three way switches, of which can be wired several ways, and this is why I produced an extensive eBook about Wiring 3-Way Switches specifically about the topic complete with the wiring diagrams. Three way switches are typically not built differently, however Decora type switches can be tricky. Four way switches could be wired with the pairs at the top and bottom, or side to side, depending on the brand switch, however this is typically indicated by the brass and gold colored sets of screws.
Dave