3 way switches are useful for large rooms with multiple entrances but require a bit more wiring than a standard single pole switch. Regardless of what 3 way switch wiring diagram.
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Understanding Three Way Wall Switches
Wiring up a 3 way switch. Fixture between two three way switches. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. Today we give you the tools knowledge to remove and install a 3 way light switch without electrocuting yourself. Power through switch light is controlled by two three way switches with the light between the switches and the power first going through a switch then to the light and onto the second three way switch. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. First run a 2 wire cable from the wall power to the black screw on 1 of the switches.
Up next how to fix a 3 way. The ground wire is pigtailed with a wire connector at the switch boxes and the ceiling box. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. 3 way switch wiring diagram. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together.
In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box. Wiring a double switch duration. 12 is a heavier gauge can handle up to 20 amps and usually has a yellow sheath. 14 has a white sheath and is good for up to 15 amps this is what you find with 14 3 or 12 3 in either case. To wire a 3 way light switch youll need 2 3 way light switches 2 2 wire non metallic cables 1 3 wire non metallic cable and 2 6 inch grounding wires. Wiring a 3 way light switch.
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. A 3 way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches. Traveler wires are interchangeable. The wiring method will. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. 14 3 or 12 3 the romex cable actually has 4 wires.
Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable. The 14 or 12 is the wire size. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.
Gallery of Wiring Up A 3 Way Switch
