Wiring a 3 way light switch. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.
3 Way Switches Electrical 101
Electrical wiring 3 way light switch. There are a number of different 3 way wiring configurations that you may come across and need to know how to wire. Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram. The travelers black and red from the 143 will connect to the same screws as on the other 3 way switch and the black wire going to the light will tie on to the common screw. Unfortunately not all 3 way switches are wired the conventional way. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. Although a 3 way is one of the hardest electrical circuits to figure out its also one of the most useful.
There are several ways to install a 3 way light switch. Before proceeding make sure you are comfortable working with electrical wires and switches. The diagrams below show the conventional wiring for 3 way switches. 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. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.
So what you should see if you have correct 3 wire electrical cable romex is a black power white neutral and now a 3rd red wire. Two 3 way switches are required in any 3 way application. 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. No longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes 3 way switch wiring diagram light fixture between switchesline voltage enters the first 3 way switch outlet box light fixture is located between switch boxesno longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.
3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box. Now discussing 3 way light switch wiring diagram as also discussed above the color codes of the wires as having three insulated conductors as black as hot red as switch wire or called traveler and white as common wire as also shown when light is connected to both black and white wires. Regardless of what 3 way switch wiring diagram youre following youll need to use a 3 wire cable to connect the two 3 way light switches. If you have any problems with these switches it may be best to call an electrician. Different 3 way wiring configurations. This guide highlights the procedures for replacing a broken 3 way electrical switch.
A 3 way wall switch controls a common light or set of lights from two separate switch locations. See alternate 3 way switch wiring configuration for another way 3 way switches may be wired.
Gallery of Electrical Wiring 3 Way Light Switch
