The 4 way is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch.
How To Wire A 4 Way Switch
Electrical 4 way switch wiring diagram. A 4 way switch has four terminals do not confuse with and purchase a 2 pole switch by mistake. Watch the 4 way switch video below and pay attention. More 4 way switch wiring diagrams four way switch wiring schematic. Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram. 4 way switch configurations are used to control lights with three or more switchesa 3 way switch is used on each end with one or more 4 way switches in between the two 3 way switchesthey do not have an onoff position like single pole switches. This diagram is a thumbnail.
If you understand how to wire a 3 way switch youll have no issues with a 4 way switch. If more than three switches are needed simply place more 4 way switches between the three way switches. For complete instructions on wiring a basic 4 way switch see our wiring a 4 way switch article. As you will see most 4 way switch wiring is placed between the wiring of two 3 way switches therefore a 4way switch is installed with two 3way. The 4 way is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations. It is important to understand how these switches are wired before attempting to troubleshoot or replace.
Look for 4 way switch wiring diagram or step how to wire a four way light switch electrical circuit a 4 way switch is a double pole double throw dpdt switch. 4 way switch not to be confused with a 2 pole switch. To view it at full size click on the diagram. A 4 way switch is always placed in between two 3 way switches. Below is another method for wiring 4 way switches. Typical 4 way switch wiring nm cable.
You can have an indefinite number of 4 way switches in a circuit. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first 3 way switch and the first 4 way switch. The switch can be used to control the electricity supplying lights from three locations. I have a few of the most common ways in wiring a 4 way switch to help you with your basic home wiring projects. They all must be between the two 3 way switches. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box.
With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. The electrical switch box that contains the line and load wires may need to be bigger than the other switch boxes especially if there are other wires going into the switch box. It has 4 terminals or poles and consists of two 3 way switches that are modified. 4 way switch wring diagram. Click here to access note. 4 way switch wiring 4 way switches provide switching from three or more locations.
A 4 way switch wiring diagram is the clearest and easiest way to wire that pesky 4 way switch. Wiring a 3 way light switch. The 4 way terminals are labeled in and out two of each.