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. I have two wires leading to the gang box one white and one black.
How Three Way Light Switches Work
Wiring a two switch light. Buy a single pole switch if one switch controls the lights or a three way if you have two switches controlling the same lights. The essence of the wiring configuration is for one hot feed wire entering the switch box to be split so that it feeds both switches which in turn feed hot wires in cables that lead out to two separate light fixtures. The key for wiring all light switches is to identify where the incoming power is found within the light switch circuit wiring. However the actual look of the wiring in the box can vary depending on where the switches are located along the circuit run. The electricity flows from the hot wire black through the 2 way switch shown in off position and then to the light and returns through the neutral wire white. Also known as three way switching the job calls for a pair of special three way switches and an appropriate length of 14 3 conductor cable to join the switches together.
Knowing how to wire a light that is controlled by two switches as opposed to one is a helpful skill. Sparky channel 6494 views. Double switch test and replacement for bath fan and light in a 1960 house duration. If two three way switches are used then the wiring between the two three way switches must be identified. So what have we accomplished. Wiring for two light switches.
By wiring a 2 way switch the circuit below shows the basic concept of electricity flow to the load. I am adding an outside light to my 1941 house. How do i take those two wires and feed two switches to have separate control for two switches. Wiring a 3 way light switch. Wiring a switch loop. When the electrical source originates at a light fixture and is controlled from a remote location a switch loop is used.
Next identify the wiring leading to the light fixture. Wiring two switches to one light fixture adds convenience to any room with two entryways. Lets assume the load you are controlling is a light. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. Add up the wattage of the bulbs in all the fixtures the switch controls to make sure it falls within the switch rating listed on the package or instructions. If at any time during the process you feel unsure about the steps or worry you might be doing something wrong you should stop and.
It is a little more involved than simply wiring a switch at the end or in the middle of a circuit mainly because there are more wires and connections involved. Also included are wiring arrangements for multiple light fixtures controlled by one switch two switches on one box and a split receptacle controlled by two switches. This circuit is wired with a 2. I put in a two gang box for two switches.
Gallery of Wiring A Two Switch Light
