How To Wire A 3 Way Switch

The black line wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3 way switch.

How to wire a 3 way switch. Its likely youll also need to replace the. Run 2 2 wire conductors between the two boxes. Traveler wires are interchangeable on each switch. Add an electrical box for the second 3 way switch in the basement.

Install a three way switch three way switch three way cable with another for ground wire four total terminal screws no12 wire linemans pliers or hacksaw sharp knife or slitting tool wire strippers hand brace drill with long auger electricians bit coil of electricians fish wire grounding screws. 3 way switch wiring diagram. Each 3 way switch in these examples are controlling the power source to the same load. In the 1st diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the first switch box.

The first step in any electrical project is to make sure there is no. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch. Turn the power off at circuit breaker. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.

Turn off the correct circuit at your electrical panel. When wiring a 3 way switch first screw the terminal screws of the new switch until they are difficult to turn. Before you can install your new three way switch youll need to put an. Install larger electrical boxes.

Connect the wire marked common to the black or dark colored screw. 3 way switches involve more cables so you will need a little more room to work. Its likely youll also need to replace the. You will likely need larger boxes than you already have if you are replacing a regular single pole switch.

Typical 3 way switch wiring nm cable. Install the correct electrical boxes. Secure the white wire to the second wire with the same color using a wire nut. 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.

Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. 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. Connect the two remaining traveler wires to the two brass or light colored screws. Step 2 connect the black wire to the input 1 of your switch.

Leave 810 inches 203254 cm of wire inside each of the boxes before cutting the cable to facilitate easy splicing and connection to the switch and fixture. Install a 3 wire cable from the first switch box to the light fixtures box. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. A 3 wire nm connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3 way switch together.

Either way complete these five steps for 3 way light switch wiring.