How to install a three way switch

Three -way switches control lights and receptacles from two points: for example, a light in a hallway that can be operated from the first floor and second floor. Either way, complete these five steps for way light switch wiring: Turn off the correct circuit at your electrical panel. Add an electrical box for the second three -way switch in the basement.

It’s likely you’ll also need to replace the existing switch box with a larger one to accommodate the extra wires for the way switch. Clamp the second electrical box to the wall and wire a three -way switch , following Figure B. Snap off the plaster ears and install the switch. You really should use a diagram from and electricl book or website.

A way switch is installed differently depending on where the power source is introduced. Sometimes it is before the first switch, sometimes it is near the fixture. On the switch you will see three screws, two brass and one black. The common wire goes on the black screw and the travelers go on the brass screws.

Are you installing this in a new work situation or an old work situation? Be sure to buy a 3way dimmer. Also they do not work on flouresant lights. You can buy certain dimmers, for each 3way, one. Contractor Tim Federspiel shows you how to install a 3-way light switch.

Way Switch Wiring Diagram. Use these step-by-step instructions to install a three -way switch and wire a circuit. Two three -way switches control one light with the electric power coming through the first switch , flowing to the second switch , and then to the light fixture. The ground wire goes through both switch boxes and the ceiling light box and it is connected at all junctions, except the light, with a pigtail (short piece of wire) and wire connector. In this video I show how to wire and install 3-way switches.

How to install a three way switch to a existing one way switch - Duration: 10:03. Need to install or replace a 3-way light switch in your home? In this arrangement the source for the circuit is at the light fixture which is located in the middle of the circuit. A 3- way light switch allows you to control a light source from two separate points.

The methods shown here are some of the safest and most versatile, though not the only options. However on each 3- way switch , you have a black screw, this is the special one. On the power coming in from the panel, you would connect that black wire to the one black screw.

Assortment of how to install way switch wiring you’ll be able to download for free. However, it can be done with a little patience and attention to detail. There are a number of configurations that can be used for wiring a 3- way switch. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch ! This might seem intimidating, but it does not have to be. Determine if the power goes to the light or the light switch.

This will affect the way that you perform the installation. If there are two black wires coming into the switch box, then the power is coming into the switch first. Remove ¾ inch of casing from the end of the house wires and the dimmer switch wires, if needed. The most basic three - way switch setup has two switches that connect and control one light fixture, like switches on either end of a hallway, staircase or large living area.

A three-way switch allows you to control a light from two different locations. It also gives you the option to install a three-way dimmer. Whether you’re replacing a three-way toggle switch , or adding or replacing a dimmer, installing a three-way switch is a straightforward project that doesn’t take much time or money. Hallway Light Switch Wiring Diagram New Ceiling Fan Single with. An antenna is a straight line with three small lines.

Three-way light switches, used where you want to control a light from two locations, such as from both ends of a staircase or hallway, are built and wired a little differently than a conventional single-pole light switch. The dimmer switch must be rated for the amount of watts that will be controlled. Great question about wiring dimmer switches, Bill. No, it does not matter which 3- way switch is replaced with a dimmer switch In fact if you are installing compatible dimmer switches you may install two dimmer switches. Three - way switch wiring requires the use of a three -conductor cable to connect the two switches.

Installing a Dimmer Switch. The red wire in the cable is known as the traveler, and it connects to the black terminal screws on the pair of switches. A 3- way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches.