Thanks for your electrical question ken. A 3 way circuit is a lighting circuit that allows one light fixture to be controlled by two wall switches in different locations.
3 Way Switch Variations
3 way lighting circuit. Three way switches have 3 terminals to carry circuit electricity and one terminal for a ground wire. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together. A properly functioning 3 way switch would be an added bonus. This is where two switches control the same light or lights. The common terminal may be labeled and is usually a different color than the traveler terminals.
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. The whole wiring a light switch project can be completed in a few hours if you dont have to do any drywall removal and repair. A 3 way light switch allows you to control a light source from two separate points. The electrical symbol indicates where power enters the circuit. Keep reading and learn how to wire a light switch. I just need to get the fixture working again.
Three way light switch with the power feed via the switch single light. 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. 3 way switch diagram. A three way wall switch is a common type of light switch that makes it possible to control a ceiling light or other electrical fixture from two different locations in a room. There are several ways to install a 3 way light switch. In a hallway or large room for example installing three way switches at both ends lets you turn the light fixture on or off from both locations.
Although a 3 way is one of the hardest electrical circuits to figure out its also one of the most useful. The methods shown here are some of the safest and most versatile though not the only options. This electrical question came from. Of the three circuit terminals one is called the common and the other two are known as travelers. Ken a homeowner from toronto ontario. Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable in the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box.
Here is our selection of three way light switch circuit diagrams. There are also four way five way and a gazillion way circuits. The following links will assist you with wiring your 3 way switches. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. Stairwells hallways and large rooms with multiple access are all candidates for 3 way circuits.
Gallery of 3 Way Lighting Circuit
