Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. 3 way switch circuits variations here are several variations of using 3 way switches to control lights from two locations.
Wiring A 3 Way Switch
3 way switch circuit. All of the switches shown below are 3 way. 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. Between each three way switch is a pair of travelers that are connected to the common terminals. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. The three way switch is a variation of the standard single pole switch which controls a light only from one location. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.
With conventional wiring the common wire from one switch connects to line the common wire from the other switch connects to the load lights. Keep reading and learn how to wire a light switch. Three way switch wiring with light middle. 3 way switch wiring with. A third type is the four way switch which is used in conjunction with two three way switches to control lighting from more than two locations. 3 way switch wiring diagrams wiring diagram 3 way switch with light at the end.
3 way switches have three terminals one common usually black color and one pair of travelers usually brass color. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together. 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. 3 way switch wiring diagram. In this diagram the electrical source is at the first switch and the. Before reading this page you may want to visit 3 way switches and 4 way switches.
Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch. For example they can be arranged so that the feed cable runs to the first three way switch then to the light fixture box then to the second three way switch. On one of the 3 way switches a line or hot wire gets connected to the copper or black screw terminal. The source in this circuit is at the first switch and the light fixture is. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.
Colors are shown consistent with the nec. Three way switches can be wired in a number of different ways depending on where they are located relative to the light fixture in the circuit cable runs.
Gallery of 3 Way Switch Circuit
