What wires go where on a 3-way light switch?

Table of Contents

What wires go where on a 3-way light switch?

The black (line) wire connects to the common terminal of the first 3-way switch. A 3-wire NM connects the traveler terminals of the first and second 3-way switch together. Traveler wires are interchangeable on each switch. The common terminal of the second 3-way switch connects to the light fixture(s).

What is black screw on 3-way switch?

Black screw terminal: The black (or darkest in color) screw attaches to the black common wire from the 14/2 cable. The terminal may be labeled COM. Green screw terminal: The green screw is the ground terminal. Two ground wires will be found in both switch boxes, one from the 14/2 cable and one from the 14/3 cable.

Can a 3-way switch be used as a 1 way?

In order for a 3-way switch to function as a single pole, the wires need to be connected to the common and one of the traveler terminals. It will not work if the wires are connected to the two traveler terminals. The other traveler terminal is left unconnected.

Can you use a 3-way switch as a single pole?

Yes it can work. 3-way switches are spdt (single pole double throw) with 3 screw terminals, and regular switches are spst (single pole single throw) with 2 screw terminals. Just pick the correct two contacts and you are good to go. .

How do you hook up a 3 way light switch?

Black – This is a HOT wire,meaning that power is running through this wire.

White – This is a neutral wire paired with the black.

Red – This is a switch wire or traveller wire,used to carry current inside the switch.

Green or Bare – This is a ground wire that grounds the entire current.

How to troubleshoot an improperly wired 3 way switch?

Turn off power to the switches at the circuit breaker and using a tester,make sure power is off.

Using a continuity tester,check continuity between the common (black) terminal and each of the traveler terminals (brass colored) of each 3-way switch.

There should be continuity between the common terminal and only one of the traveler terminals.

How do you hook up three way switch?

Switch off the circuit. Ensure that the circuit for the room you are working in has been flipped off.

Determine if the power goes to the light or the light switch. This will affect the way that you perform the installation.

Replace any regular switches with the 3-way switches.

Install larger electrical boxes.

How to wire 3 light switches with one power supply?

Push the four white wires into the back of the gang box. Connect a black, or hot, wire from each of the three fixtures to the top screw on the right side of each switch. Tighten each screw. Connect the black wire from the power supply to all three of the black pigtails. Twist all four black wires together with a yellow wire nut.