Attach the common wire to the terminal labeled “common.” Connect the traveler wires to the remaining terminals on the switch. STEP TWO: CONNECT THE WIRESĬonnect the ground wire from the wall to the green screw on your new switch. It’s also a good idea to take a picture of the wiring setup before you detach the old switch from the wall box for future reference. As you gently pull the switches out of the wall, pay close attention to the wiring and how it’s connected. Remove the existing screws out of the faceplates of both switches. And then, use the voltage tester on both switches to confirm that the power is off. And it’s important to ensure all work meets applicable local and national codes.Īlso, BEFORE YOU BEGIN, turn off the power to the circuit you’ll be working on at the breaker box. If you don’t feel comfortable handling electrical wiring, hire a qualified electrician to perform the installation. WARNING: We ask you to please follow each step carefully. So how do you wire a 3-way switch? Just follow these simple steps. Wire nuts (typically included in the switch’s package contents)ĭirections for Wiring a 3-Way Light Switch.Screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips).In addition to your new 3-way light switch(es), here’s what you’ll need. What Tools and Materials Are Required to Install the 3-Way Light Switch? They can even improve the energy efficiency in your home. They can add flexibility and convenience by positioning them around large spaces or at either end of a hallway. By putting switches at the top and bottom of your staircase, you can improve the safety of your home. The 3-way setup is a great option for different rooms-and for different reasons. And because the switch can be on or off in either position, 3-way light switches don’t have “ON” or “OFF” labels on them. When a switch changes its position, they either connect or disconnect the common wire from one of the traveler wires, which allows the circuit to either complete or break. They have a common wire, which carries the electrical current to the light as well as two traveler wires that move the signal between the switches. How Do 3-Way Light Switches Work and Where Is Best Suited to Use Them?Ĭompared to a single-pole switch, 3-way switches use a more complex wiring arrangement to achieve their functionality. If the light is on due to one switch being in the “on” position, you can turn it off from the other switch regardless of its position.If either Switch A or Switch B is in the “on” position, the light is on.If both switches are in the “off” position, the light is off.The control setup is slightly more complicated than a standard single-pole switch. Both switches are designed to either complete or interrupt the circuit-allowing you to turn lights on or off from two areas of the room. In traditional electrical setups, a 3-way light switch is paired with an additional 3-way switch to give you control of a light or appliance from two different locations. So in this blog, we’re going to walk you through how to install a 3-way switch, how it works, and all the benefits that come with it. Plus, a 3-way switch installation is a practical and empowering process for any seasoned DIY-er or beginner looking to take on a new project. Well, adding a standard 3-way switch also comes with a lot of benefits-like convenience, flexibility, safety, and so much more. There are smart home switches which include everything from our peel-and-stick wireless smart switch or ceiling fan switch to our wireless remote light switch that allows you to control your lighting from the couch, bed, or wherever you’re comfortable.īut what if you want to stick with traditional lighting? It’s true: controlling your lighting has gone beyond the simple flip switch.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |