How To Wire Up A Three Way Switch

The existing 2 wire black and white romex can still be used to connect a 3 way switch 2 and the light fixture.

How to wire up a three way switch. In this circuit two light fixtures are shown but more can be added by duplicating the wiring arrangement between the fixtures for each additional light. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. Wiring a 3 way light switch.

Here the source is at the first switch sw1 and 3 wire cable runs from there to the first light l1. Three way switch wire connections. The switch may also have several ways to make the wire connections. Wiring a 3 way switch with multiple lights.

Three way switches have different methods of connection depending on the brand of the switch. You will see a black screw and two gold screws on the switch. Before you start installing take a look at your new 3 way switch to identify all of the terminals that you will be connecting wires to. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.

3 way switch wiring diagram. Two black and one red. Take your three way switch. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.

Two three way switches control one light with the electric power coming through the first switch flowing to the second switch and then to the light fixture. The ground wire goes through both switch boxes and the ceiling light box and it is connected at all junctions except the light with a pigtail short piece of wire and wire connector. Traveler wire terminals these are located on each side of the switch towards the top of the switch. Strip all three wires with wire strippers.

Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram. Remember the black wire that you wrapped around the traveler wires is the common. You should have three remaining wires in each box. Replace any regular switches with the 3 way switches.

With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.