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Electrical Wire and Cable

Wiring Diagrams for Light Switches


wiring-switchs Summary: Fully explained wiring diagrams and photos show how to wire switches including: single switches, 3-way switches, 4-way switches, and dimmer switches.
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Diagrams for Wiring Light Switches


DIY Electrical Wiring Video

How to Wire a Light Switch

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Before wiring a light switch please consider the following:
Make sure the circuit power has been turned off, and mark the circuit breaker or fuse to indicate that work is being done.
Make sure the switch is correct for your application. The switch should be rated for the circuit voltage and the amperage. For example: A standard light switch in the USA for a bedroom is typically rated for 120 volts, 15 amps.
Before replacing a light switch, make sure to identify the existing wiring before removing the wires. Make a note describing how the wires are connected to the switch. Create a drawing and mark the wires with electrical tape or masking tape. If possible, take a picture of the wiring inside the switch box, and how the wires are attached to the switch.

Single-Pole Switch Wiring Diagrams

Single Switch Wiring Diagram 1

Easy to Understand Light Switch Wiring - Fully Explained Light Switch Wiring with Diagrams and Pictures with Step-By-Step Instructions to Guide You.
Single-Pole Switch Wiring Diagrams

Single Switch Wiring Diagram 2

Fully explained pictures and wiring diagrams about wiring light switches describing the most common switches with photo diagram 2.
wiring-a-3-way-switch

3 Way Switch Wiring Diagram Part 1

3Way Switch Wiring Diagrams #1, #2 and #3
The key to three way switch wiring depends on two main factors. These wiring diagrams help you identify the power feed and the switch leg leading to the fixture.
wiring-a-3-way-switch

3 Way Switch Wiring Diagram Part 2

3Way Switch Wiring Diagrams #4, #5 and #6
Continuing on with wiring three way switches, these next three wiring diagrams in this series will help you identify three more possibilities for wiring the power feed and the switch wiring that leads to the light fixture..
4-way-switch

4 Way Switch Wiring Diagrams

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.
wiring-a-dimmer-switch

Wiring Dimmer Switches

Fully Explained Wiring for 3 Way Dimmer Switches with Wiring Diagrams and Pictures - Instructions about How to Wire 3 Way Dimmer Switches.



related

More about Wiring Switches


  • Wiring Master and Slave Switches
  • How to Wire Master and Slave Switches for Three and Four Switch Lighting Control: I need 4-way wiring diagram using master dimmer & companion dimmer & 1 4-Way rocker switch.
  • How To Fix 4-Way Switch Wiring
  • How to Avoid Confusion about the White Wire and 4 Way Switch Wiring with the power and the 3-wire cable of the 3 Way Switches.
  • Dimmer Switch Wiring and 3-Way Switches
  • How to Wire Dimmer Switches and 3-Way Switches: Electrical Tips about Wiring 3-Way Dimmers and Switches. Here are Easy to Understand 3 Way Switch Wiring Diagrams and Installation Guide.
  • How to Correct 3-Way Switch Wiring
  • The One Most Misunderstood Item about 3-Way Switch Wiring – This is why the white wire should be identified with black electrical tape or black permanent marker when use for any switch wiring to prevent confusion.
  • How to Wire Switches and Outlets from a Power Source
  • How to Connect Electrical Wiring for Switches and Outlets: The Most Common Method for Wiring Switches and Outlets from the Power Source.

Learn more about wiring switches


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Home Electrical Wiring - Room by Room
120 Volt Circuits
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Multi-Wired Circuits
Wiring Methods for Installing Home Electrical Circuit Wiring
Electrical Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
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More about: Switch


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Wire a Switched Outlet to Control a Lamp
Replacing a 3Way Switch with a Time Switch
Wire a Disconnect Switch for a Tankless Water Heater