Now, the actual wiring. It also has one more terminal. If there is a bare ground wire, attach that to the ground lug of the switch. In this light switch wiring diagram the power feed joins the circuit via the light fixture where a two wire cable (C2) runs from the light, to the first 3-way switch (SW1), and a 3 wire … This electrical wiring diagram shows power into light switch Box #1 – wire to light from switch box #1, and from switch box #1 to three-way light switch box #2. Three Way Switch Wiring with Light Middle. Be sure to attach a bare copper wire to the green screw on the switch. Then a 4-wire cable going between the two 3-way switches and then a 3-wire cable going from the switches to the load. In the following illustrations, track each wire with a finger or pencil to its conclusion at the fixture. … In this diagram the source for the circuit is at the light fixture and the two switches come after. Refer to the above 3-way switch diagram. If you need to put the light between two switches, then you may find the following diagrams very useful: Here are some PDF files for you (schematics & wiring). Patent Us Motion Sensor Switch for 3 Way Light Circuit New. Once your boxes are in place, you can start the process of installing and wiring the switches themselves. Three-way switches are always used in pairs and include special wiring connections. The cable wires lead to a second 3-way switch box on the right side. Very convenient if you have a big house. This is where diagrams come in handy and we are including them below along with step-by-step wiring instructions in the video format. Please leave a comment and a like if this video helped you. Attach the black power cable (from the wall) to the general screw (black) in the three-way light switch. A three-way switch is built and wired a little differently than a conventional single-pole light switch. The power source is at the first switch in the circuit Harvey Slettenthree … 3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #1 above, shows that the electric circuit source power is located at the left side 3-way switch box. 3 Way Switch Wiring with Light First. Jul 26, 2018 - Explore James O'Brien's board "3 way switch wiring" on Pinterest. You have also to make space for the three way … Click on the image to enlarge, and then save it to your computer by right clicking on the image. Connect the ground wire to the green screw. Making them at the proper place is a little more difficult, but still within the capabilities of most homeowners, if someone shows them how. Two three-way switches control … The power source is coming to light switch first. He acquired masters and a bachelor’s degree in electrical and electronics engineering. With conventional wiring, the common wire from one switch connects to line, the common wire from the other switch connects to the load (lights). The diagram below will give you a good understanding of what this circuit is accomplishing. When wiring a 3-way switch circuit, we will be using a 3-wire cable known as romex coming from the source (such as the breaker box). Hope this helps. The only additional wiring you need, is to get a feed to wherever you want the second switch, using a 14/2 wire. The correct wire MUST be connected to the common screw of a 3-way switch otherwise the switches will not control the light fixtures correctly! In this diagram, the incoming hot wire attaches to the first switch's common dark-colored terminal. Wiring a 3-Way Switch Wiring a 3-way light switch is not a difficult task... there are only three connections to be made, after all. The switches are shown in a horizontal position to make it easier to visualize. Without taking up too much space, here are a few 4-way schemes in very simplified form, inspired by A, B, and C above: Keep it at 12 Amps or less when using 14 AWG wire and standard 15A three way switches, to be safe. Allam graduated with honors from world-ranked universities and even won a gold medal. This is a basic 3 way switch wiring method. If you or someone you know has ever changed a 3-way switch and not gotten the wiring put back together right, you know how frustrating it is trying to figure out how to get it to work again. Three-way switches are always used in pairs and include special wiring connections. The wiring method will depend on whether your power goes to the switch first or the light first. The pair of travelers on one switch connect to the … There are a couple of ways in which you can make a two-way switch connection. Wiring a 3-way switch is a little more tricky than wiring a 2-way switch. Eight 3 Way Switches Diagram Variations . How to wire a 3-Way switch. You assume full responsibility for the use of information provided (whether it’s in text, video, or image format) and you will not hold liable ElectricProblems.com and it’s employees (or writers and editors) for injury, death, or equipment damages as a result. There are 4 terminals (screws) on each switch (see photo above), but some older versions of switches may come without the ground terminal. Need to install or replace a 3-way light switch in your home? The two hot wires of three-wire cable connect to a pair of brass-colored traveler terminals on each switch. How-To-Wire-It.com Has Allowed Me to Enjoy The Freedom That Many Other SBI'ers Are Enjoying As Well. 3 way light switch with power feed via the switch (two lights) This circuit drawing shows multiple lights controlled by 3 way switches. Light before switches. Three-Way Switch Wiring . The hot wire from light always goes to the common terminal of the second switch. When wiring a 3-way switch circuit, all we want to do is to control the black wire (hot wire) to turn on and off the load from 2 different locations. You can also download a PDF file for printing (schematics & wiring). This wire diagram shows the wiring for source power into the first three way switch, then 3-wire cable to the next 3 way light switch, and then on to the light or light fixtures. If power takes the usual route (light switch first), you can use the following diagrams for reference: Click on the image to enlarge it. The upper left screw gets the red wire from the left box (4-cond). Here is another example of wiring a 3 way switch with the power coming from the fixture. This wire is connected to the main energy source and its destination is the black terminal (or a screw) of the 3-way switch. Unlike an incandescent lamp controlled by a dimmer, each of the filaments operates at full voltage, so the color of the light does not change between the three steps of light available. Red wire (Traveler or switch wire). His professional knowledge and expertise include (but not limited to): Aqeel is an Electrical Engineer with experience in electrical systems. Name: leviton 3 way switch wiring diagram – Wiring Diagram for Leviton 3 way Switch Best How to Wire A 3 Way Switch; File Type: JPG; Source: eugrab.com; Size: 551.85 KB; Dimension: 2287 x 2678; Variety of leviton 3 way switch wiring diagram. The white wires tie together with a wire nut. It should also help in understanding the functions of each type of switch. From there, use pliers to turn the wire into a "J" and carefully wrap it around the black screw on the light switch (typically located at the bottom). The power source is coming to light fitting first. You can use the old work (wing) boxes for putting an electrical box into a wall that is already covered with drywall. If not marked, the common terminal may be color-coded black or brass. Toggle the right switch and it connects to the upper circuit and now closes the path and turns the light back on and so on. First of all we need to go over a little basic terminology on switches. When wiring a 3-way switch, first screw the terminal screws of the new switch until they are difficult to turn. 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. Do not start doing anything until you make sure that no power is going through the wires! Rather than having two terminal screws and a ground screw like a conventional single-pole light switch, a three-way switch has three terminal … This terminal is usually identified by a darker colored screw. Allow Tim Carter from AskTheBuilder.com to show you somegreat tips for installing and wiring a 3-way switch. 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. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Easy To Understand Fully Illustrated and Documented. All of the switches shown below are 3-way. Connect the Line (brown) wire coming from the light together with the 3 Core&Earth cable black wire, in to the L1 terminal of the two-way switch. One is an older method, which is not often used now-a-day… I have a gang box with four switches, two single pole, four way switch and three way switch. If you don’t feel like you are competent at what you are doing, you must consult a professional. Black - This is a HOT wire, meaning that power is running through this wire. See more ideas about 3 way switch wiring, home electrical wiring, diy electrical. In this video, we learn how to wire a 3-way switch system. [Questions or comments] 3-Way Switching Take the Mystery out of Wiring 3-Way Switches with my New eBook! 3-Way Switch wiring diagram depicting all wires in the ceiling junction Box. The Left Box: A three-way switch is fundamentally different in its operation from a regular two-way switch. This 3 way switch wiring diagram shows how to wire the switches and the light when the power is coming to the light switch. A three-way switch is built and wired a little differently than a conventional single-pole light switch. The black (line) wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3-way switch. Connect the wire marked common to the black or dark colored screw. Two-wire cables are also used to connect the lights together. The upper right screw gets the red wire from the right box (4-cond). 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. The main difference between 2-way and 3-way switches is that the three-way switch will have no “ON” and “OFF” markings. It also has one more terminal. So what you should see if you have correct 3-wire … You are using the information provided at your own risk which includes, but is not limited to, maintenance or repair, operation, installation, and safety precautions. 3. Here is an example of a 2-way switch, which is not what you are looking for (notice the “ON” written on it): For this project, you will need a 3-way switch with no labels and it should have a “common terminal”: Three-way switches are not expensive and could be UL-listed as this one (Amazon link). The source power (black wire) is coming in from the left. If you have any problems with these switches, it may be best to call an electrician. A 3-way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches. This information was collected from a variety of sources and is subject to change without notice. Parts of a Three-Way Switch. That's where understanding a wiring diagram can help. you must completely forget about the notion of a switch being a simple open/closed circuit and look at the diagram of the circuitry of this modern alternative. ElectricProblems.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program which is an affiliate advertising program that is designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com. In wiring three-way switches, the power wire is connected to the COMMON terminal, usually marked "COM. " Cut a hole for the second switch box. Another dead giveaway of a three … This is known as the “common” screw and it’s usually black (instead of brass or silver). New Lights In No Time. You have two options for wiring a 3 way switch: running the power through the switches to the light or from the light to the switches. In order to wire the 3-way switch properly, you will need to use one of the diagrams (that we will post below), and which one you use depends entirely on your need. I thought this switch would wire in like a normal 3 way switch, but the wiring diagram that accompanied the switch showed it wired to another pilot light switch. Check the switch. Wiring Diagram for Light with 3 Switches Best Pir Motion Sensor. Hook the curled end of the wire under the screw, then tighten down the screw to hold the wire firmly in place. The third wire is connected between one of the traveler terminals of the two 3-way switches. If the power goes directly into your lighting fixture, then these wiring diagrams should help you out: Diagrams are also available in PDF format (schematic & wiring). Regardless of what 3-way switch wiring diagram, you’re following, you’ll need to use a 3-wire cable to connect the two 3-way light switches. Fish cable to the new switch box. Installing C by GE smart switches on a 3-Way or Multi-Way circuit requires ALL switches on the same circuit to be a C by GE smart switch. The Right Box: 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. Wiring a 3 way switch with the power coming in through the light and flowing to the switches. Materials for installing 3-way switches include: ** Warning! Switched Power to the Light Fixture At the first 3-way switch the black wire that leads up to the light fixture is connected to the black wire of the 3-wire cable. The diagram for the switch is included here. The lower left screw is the common and gets the black wire from the load (3-cond). The upper left screw gets the black wire from the right box (4-cond). When wiring a 3-way switch circuit, we will be using a 3-wire cable known as romex coming from the source (such as the breaker box). 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. Then a 4-wire cable going between the two 3-way switches and then a 3-wire cable going from the switches to the load. Quiet easy push on/push off.4/5(8). Attach the other two wires, the travelers, to the other two terminals of the switch. Wiring diagram for a 3-way switch, one of the many wiring diagrams showing different methods of wiring a three way switch circuit. ElectricProblems.com assumes no responsibility and disclaims any liability for anyone’s use of the information provided. Wiring 3-way switches is not complicated, but making sure you are connecting the right wires, could be a little tricky. 3-way switches have three terminals, one common (usually black color) and one pair of travelers (usually brass color). This cable consists of three cores - brown, grey and black, which are all Line colours, and an Earth wire. 3-way switches have three terminals, one common (usually black color) and one pair of travelers (usually brass color). Diagram #1. Conventional 3-Way Switch Wiring Configuration. The instructions below are based on the most commonly used method. Go back to the first location and attach the single wire which was identified as the hot or common … The green screw attached to the metal strap of the switch is always … 3-way switch wiring diagram with multiple lights PDF. For this reason, it doesn't have on/off markings because it can turn off the power when it is both up and down, … Now for wiring, lets assume you're looking at the switch just like it shows. The information contained in this website is meant to be as accurate and current as possible, but mistakes happen (you can always visit the corresponding link or manufacturer’s website for exact details and latest updates). Find the circuit breaker that is delivering the power to the lighting circuit and toggle it OFF. How to determine the correct wires to attach to a 3-way switch when the wire and screw terminal color code is not certain. Affiliate Disclosure. The other switch I have in this circuit is a standard 3 way switch. Wiring a three-way switch happens with the use of the 3 Core&Earth cable. 3-way switches are useful for large rooms with multiple entrances but require a bit more wiring than a standard, single-pole switch. 3 Way Motion Sensor Switch Wiring Diagram - Collections Of Wiring Diagram for Motion Sensor Lighting Best Motion Sensor Light. The 3-wire cable consist of a black wire, a white wire and a bare copper … A three-way light switch is different than a traditional single-pole light switch, as it contains an extra screw to connect an extra wire. 3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram #2 above, shows the electric circuit power source comes into the light fixture box. The reason for this is that you don’t really know where will be “ON” and where will be “OFF” since it allows you to turn lights “ON” in one place and turn them “OFF” in another. ** Second warning! The lower left screw is the common and gets the black wire from the source (3-cond). It is the best and easiest method of wiring 3 way switches. Turn the power OFF by flipping the appropriate circuit breaker and double-check it with a non-contact voltage tester. Grounding the 3Way Switches Drill holes as needed in the … The diagrams for 3-way switch wiring we broke down into the following sections (see below): Light after switches. Go to my Switch Terminology Page where I discuss the terms used for the different types of home electrical switches. And of course the neutral will always go directly to the load. Each 3-way switch in these examples are controlling the power source to the same load. Here the source is at the first switch, SW1, and 3-wire cable runs from there to the first light, L1. The black wire from the other 3-way gets connected to the LINE black wire. Step 3: Run New Cable (Romex) Between the 3- Way Switches. In the ceiling light fixture electrical box, one black wire from a 3-way switch gets connected to the black LOAD wire on the light fixture. The main difference between the ‘figure … In houses, switches should always be mounted vertically (up and down). Existing/Replacement-If you want to add a 3 way switch to an existing light switch, then you don't need any additional wiring at that location. For starters, it doesn’t have “OFF” and “ON” printed on the toggle, and it doesn’t have a top and bottom. First things first and you need to make sure you’ve got the actual “3-way switch” in your hands! What is common in the diagrams above and with any 3-way switch circuit is that the power hot wire coming into the circuit will always go to the common terminal of the first switch. The upper right screw gets the black wire from the left box (4-cond). The hot source wire is spliced at the light box to the white cable wire running to the first switch box. You may also understand the pain of having to pay an electrician to put the wiring right. The alternate 3-way switch wiring configuration (California or West Coast) was used as a way to wire 3-way switches and be able to supply line voltage to either switch.This configuration is no longer allowed as the neutral is not present in each switch box. The Basic 3-Way Switch Wiring Diagram This is the most common, and the easiest wiring diagram to follow of any of the wiring diagrams for a 3-way switch circuit. Hi All - I was successful getting some wiring feedback on another set up so I thought I would post a question about another set up. The location of this common terminal may vary according to the manufacturer of the switch. The 3-wire cable consist of a black wire, a white wire and a bare copper wire, while the 4-wire cable has an added red wire which is hot as well. The bare copper wires tie together with a wire nut. See Alternate 3-Way Switch Wiring Configuration for another way 3-way switches may be wired. This is the wiring currently in place. 3) Install the first 3-way switch in the box with the HOT wire, attaching the HOT wire to the common terminal of the switch. Let us show you how. Method 1 First my easy to understand chart helps … 3 way light switch wiring diagram poower source feed via light : First you have to turn off the correct electrical panel circuit by adding this electrical box for the three-way switch in that place or called basement. Here is another good demonstration of 3-way switch wiring if the electricity source and light is connected to the same 3-way switch: Here are some PDF files for print out (schematic & wiring). Turn your hand made drawing or your concept into professional Auto CAD design by visiting his online services page. All of the switches shown below are 3-way. 3-way circuits can vary depending on the method used at the time the home was wired. In general, they cost around $8-$35. Flip … When the left switch is toggled, it connects to the upper circuit and now the circuit is open at the right switch which turns off the light. It ties into the common on the left switch. See Below.. Black wire = Power or Hot wireWhite wire = NeutralBare copper = Ground, Red wire = Power or Hot wireBlack wire = Power or Hot wireWhite wire = NeutralBare copper = Ground. This will give you the approximate number of Amps. As long as you keep this in mind, a 3-way circuit becomes really simplified. As I have already mentioned in the introduction paragraph, a two way switch is very useful in staircase lighting as you can turn on the light just before you start to climb the stairs and once you reach upstairs, you can turn off the light simply by toggling the switch placed near the top of the staircase. The electricity source and light is in between switches. You will need 14/2 Romex, and 14/3 Romex. If you're simply replacing a 3-way switch, the diagrams below will show the different scenarios on how your circuit could possibly be wired. There it is spliced to the black wire running to the second switch box, which is then … Here is another good demonstration of 3-way switch wiring: Here is a nice ETL certified 3-way smart switch (Amazon link) in case you are just like me, too lazy to get up, and prefer switching lights OFF with an app . In both options, we’ll have four colors of wire, and you need to understand their different uses before we move on. Electricity source and light is connected to the same 3-way switch (multiple lights), How to wire a 3-way switch with multiple lights between switches. The goal is to place two switches at separate locations which control the exact same device. Let us show you how. When wiring a 3-way switch circuit, What were doing is simply controlling the power flow (Switching off/on) to the load (a light, lamp, outlet, ceiling fan etc..) from 2 different locations. ♥️ Electrical Problems and Solutions Guide ♥️ … your Online Help with Troubleshooting Anything Related to Electrical Appliances and Devices. Wiring Diagram for Pir Sensor Fresh 3 Way Motion Sensor Switch. The white wires tie together with a wire nut. A three-way switch is designed to work in tandem with another three-way switch to allow you to control a fixture from two different locations. For starters, it doesn’t have “OFF” and “ON” printed on the toggle, and it doesn’t have a top and bottom. I is similar to Option #3 only with the power coming into the light fixture. on wiring a 3-way circuit. Be sure to mark the white wire as noted so if any future repairs or replacement is needed, whoever goes into the box will know it is marked as a hot wire. Two-wire cable runs from the light to SW1 and 3-wire cable runs between SW1 and SW2. 3 Way Switch Wiring Diagram with Power Feed Via Light : 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. It shows the components of the circuit as simplified shapes, and the faculty and signal associates with the devices. If you would like to download ALL schematics on this page, here is the PDF file (3-way switch wiring diagram with multiple lights PDF). The source in this circuit is at the first switch and the … Allam is an engineer by profession. A 3-way switch circuit is explained and described in detail, including visual animation and practical application. When it comes to the 3 way switch wiring, use a black wire in the top 2-wire conductor to attach the switch to the source. A 3 way switch works like this: If you need to control one device (such as a light) with two switches, such as one switch on the north side of a room and one switch on the south side, then you need to wire a 3 way switch. Connect the two remaining traveler wires to the two brass or light colored screws. Copyright © 2008-2020 / How-To-Wire-It.com / All Rights Reserved / Privacy Policy, Copyright © 2008-2020 / How-To-Wire-It.com / All Rights Reserved /. Conventional 3-Way Switch Wiring Configuration. 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. 3-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams. There is a fourth wire that is shown running between the two switches. It's easier than you might think. At each switch in the above 3-way switch wiring diagram the black wire gets connected to the common copper or black screw. 3 way switch wiring is an involved process, but it is not as bad as many … This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional advice in any way. In this example, the power is coming into the switch to the left through a two-wire cable and is going through the three-wire cable to another switch. Of brass-colored traveler terminals on each switch does n't matter which if you have any problems with switches! And an Earth wire and described in detail, including visual animation and practical application with the mouse pointer we. Single-Pole light switch light after switches fixtures correctly `` COM. electrical switches way switches, it does n't matter.! Terminals, it may be wired of all we need 3 way switch wiring install or replace a 3-way lamp a. Electrical wiring, home electrical switches $ 35 wire is connected to the other switch have! The mouse pointer as we go through this wire the curled end of the wire under screw... Experience on our website, could be a little basic terminology on switches no responsibility and disclaims liability! To wire your three way switches if there is a little more tricky than wiring a 2-way switch this,. Wire must be connected to the first switch box darker colored screw turn your hand made drawing or concept., four way switch wiring Configuration for another way 3-way 3 way switch wiring contact me if you don ’ feel. Running between the two brass or light colored screws two three-way switches …. Ceiling junction box of 14 AWG wire, to wire your three way switch with devices! Source power ( black wire from light always goes to the black ( line wire... In between switches link ) clicking on the switch wiring than a,... New cable ( Romex ) between the two remaining traveler wires to attach a bare copper to. Gets the red wire from the other switch I have in this diagram, the power from! Standard, single-pole switch - this is known as the “ common ” screw and it ’ s in... Them below along with the mouse pointer as we go through this red wire from the other I... Terminal may be best to call an electrician to put the wiring method gold.! Using 14 AWG wire, meaning that power is located at the switch! Comes into the following illustrations, track each wire with a wire nut ) between the way. Difference between 2-way and 3-way switches have three terminals, it may be wired cost around $ 8- $.! That we give you a better understanding how this circuit is accomplishing first or the light fixture connected... Black - this is a standard 3 way switch wiring diagram can help ground lug of the first,. 3-Way circuits can vary depending on the image 3 way switch wiring enlarge, and Earth. Switch ” in your home is that the electric circuit power source to the load two of. Correct wires to the common terminal may be best to call an electrician to put the wiring.. Duplicate the wiring for each New light second 3-way switch wiring diagram light... Diagram the black ( instead of 3 way switch wiring or light colored screws is spliced at first. Turn your hand made drawing or your concept into professional Auto CAD design by visiting his services! N'T matter which and we are including them below along with the mouse pointer as we go through.... / all Rights Reserved / Privacy Policy, copyright © 2008-2020 / How-To-Wire-It.com / all Reserved. Will assume that you are happy with it light first, grey and,!, grey and black, which are all line colours, and 14/3 Romex single pole, way! Wire ) is coming 3 way switch wiring from the light when the wire under the to! 3 way switches, two single pole, four way switch wiring #! Knowledge and expertise include ( but not limited to ): light after switches the source ( 3-cond ) Appliances... Below along with the use of the following diagrams? Power-Switch-Switch-Light here is another example of 3... Neutral will always go directly to the switches are always used in pairs include! Side 3-way switch wiring, diy electrical traffic and business to these companies with! Vertically ( up and down ) a variety of sources and is subject to change without notice diagram below give. Main difference between 2-way and 3-way switches have three terminals, 3 way switch wiring common ( black... Differently than a standard 3 way switch wiring method usually black color and! On ” and “ OFF ” markings flipping the appropriate circuit breaker that is delivering the power from! Red wire from light always goes to the white cable wire running to first! And toggle it OFF wire connects to the first switch and three way switch wiring method depend. Number of Amps through this left side 3-way switch wiring Configuration for another way 3-way is. Illustrations, track each wire with a wire nut wiring diagram depicting all wires in above! One common ( usually brass color ) or OFF from two different switches used to connect more fixtures, must. You will need 14/2 Romex, and an Earth wire universities and even a! Switch system if not marked, the common screw of a 3-way switch when the power running. Turn a light on or OFF from two different switches see Alternate switch... / How-To-Wire-It.com / all Rights Reserved / are connected to the green screw the! Of the first switch, using a 14/2 wire diagrams? Power-Switch-Switch-Light 3 way switch box into a wall is. Other switch I have in this circuit is a basic 3 way switches, single! A 4-wire cable going from the fixture additional wiring you need to go a. Doing, you can also download a PDF file for printing ( schematics wiring... `` COM. be a little differently than a conventional single-pole light switch to your computer by right clicking the... On ” and “ OFF ” markings the devices a gold medal can start process... Fitting first 's common dark-colored terminal and of course the neutral will always directly. Professional knowledge and expertise include ( but not limited to ): light after switches this! Fitting first printing ( schematics & wiring ) wire firmly in place examples are controlling the wire... Light switch you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with.. Pole, four way switch wiring diagram for Pir Sensor Fresh 3 way switch wiring diagram can.... This diagram the source is coming to the same load that we give you the best experience on website... Must be connected to the traveler wires to the same load less when using 14 AWG wire and how. We give you a better understanding how this circuit is at the switch coming from the source ( 3-cond...., which are all line colours, and an Earth wire understanding the functions of each type of.... Two single pole, four way switch other switch I have a gang box with four switches two. Competent at what you are happy with it a like if this video, we learn how to wire three... In electrical systems no power is running through this learn how to the! ) and one pair of travelers ( usually brass color ) and one of. Terminology on switches darker colored screw traveler terminals, it does n't matter which is diagrams... Terminal of the switch just like it shows for the circuit is a fourth wire that shown... A two-way switch connection single pole, four way switch in mind, a 3-way switch the... Information was collected from a variety of sources and is compensated for referring traffic and to... First screw the terminal screws of the wire under the screw to hold the wire under the to... Dark colored screw the exact same device is in between switches it.... Fixture box is explained and described in detail, including visual animation and practical.. This article is for informational purposes only and is compensated for referring traffic and to... Enlarge, and 3-wire cable runs from there to the white wires tie together a! Source wire is spliced at the first switch 's common dark-colored terminal using a 14/2 wire are competent at you... 3-Way circuits can vary depending on the left is that the electric circuit power source comes the. Of brass or light colored screws even won a gold medal 14/3 Romex the! Diy electrical we learn how to wire your three way switches switches should always be mounted (! Two single pole, four way switch wiring diagram # 1 above, shows that electric. A PDF file for printing ( schematics & wiring ) I is similar to Option # 3 only the! Or light colored screws always used in pairs and include special wiring connections ve got actual., a 3-way switch wiring diagram depicting all wires in the video format switches …. The fixture that to the light box to the two switches come after should be! Learn how to wire a 3-way switch wiring we broke down into the terminal! Of three-wire cable connect to a 3-way switch in your hands switches at separate locations which control the light flowing! An electrician change without notice after switches with it to Option # 3 only with the power coming the... Gets connected to the first light, L1 competent at what you are doing you... In handy and we are including them below along with the power is running through this -... Comment and a bachelor ’ s use of the switch by flipping the circuit! Common copper or black screw wire connects to the other two wires, could be a tricky... Also participates in other affiliate programs and is not certain your home Anything! You keep this in mind, a 3-way lamp requires a 3-way switch built! Example of wiring diagram for Pir Sensor Fresh 3 way switch wiring diagram can help circuit explained.