Casual Wiring 2 3 Way Switches

A 3 way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches.

Wiring 2 3 way switches. If you are trying to troubleshoot a 3 way switch operation you will need to identify the function of each wire. Before proceeding an important component called a two way light switch is the main element of the 2 way switching irrespective of the type of wiring used. In one position the com and l1 are connected while in the second position the com and l2 are connected.

First things first and you need to make sure you ve got the actual 3 way switch in your hands. The three terminals are usually named com l1 and l2 but sometimes com 1 way and 2 way are also used. Wires consisting of a line a load a neutral a pair of travelers and two 3 way switches.

3 way switches are useful for large rooms with multiple entrances but require a bit more wiring than a standard single pole switch. Hook the curled end of the wire under the screw then tighten down the screw to hold the wire firmly in place. It is a standard single pole switch with three terminals.

How to determine the correct wires to attach to a 3 way switch when the wire and screw terminal color code is not certain. Do this before you disconnect any wires from the switches. Add an electrical box for the second 3 way switch in the basement.

This is the 3 wire cable which you must have to wire a 3 way light switch. The wiring method will depend on whether your power goes to the switch first or the light first. Wiring 3 way switches is not complicated but making sure you are connecting the right wires could be a little tricky.

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. It s likely you ll also need to replace the existing switch box with a larger one to accommodate the extra wires for the 3 way switch. Either way complete these five steps for 3 way light switch wiring.