A three-way switch is the type that turns on lights from both ends of a hallway. These diagrams clearly show how to wire a pair of three-way light switches. A pair of three-way light switches control one or more electric light fixtures from two locations, such as from both ends of a staircase or hallway. It also has one extra terminal the screw that you hook wires to.
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How to Wire a Light Switch — Steps for Both Single-Pole and 3-Way Switches
Your browser does not support JavaScript. Please turn it on for the best experience. There are several types of light switches that you will encounter when upgrading a switch to a Smart Switch in your home. With a standard or single-pole wall switch, only one switch controls a light or series of lights. This is the most common light switch found in a home.
How to Wire a Light Switch: Easy Steps for Single-Pole and 3-Way Switches
Things get a bit trickier with 3-way switch wiring, in which there are two switches and one light. However, when you understand how electricity travels in this type of circuit, it all starts to make sense. While installing new electrical wiring should almost always be done by a licensed electrician, DIYers can often successfully replace old switches with new switches —if local codes allow. Anyone preparing to replace a 3-way switch should have a working knowledge of switch wiring.
He has an associate degree in electronics and completed a four-year apprenticeship. He's been writing for The Spruce on residential wiring and home installation projects for over eight years. Wall switches used to control ceiling light fixtures or other fixtures come in three types. Most common is the single-pole switch , the type of electrical switch used to control a light fixture from a single location.