Fully explained 4 way switch diagrams. Light switches operate by providing an operational break in the hot circuit wire leading to a light fixture or other device.
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How to change a light switch with 4 wires. Inspect the quality of the wires. The black wire is going to be connected to the black screw on the switch. If you get a light or a non zero meter reading the circuit is live. Then use a voltage tester to make sure that the circuit is dead. Now that the light switch is completely removed well need to prepare for the installation of the combo switch. To replace this kind of switch follow these steps.
Review the diagram below for basic three way wiring instructions. Unscrew and remove the switch plate. Most 4 way switch wiring is placed between the wiring of two 3 way switches. Normally when you replace a light switch you would leave the neutral wires alone but in this case well be connecting them to the new combo switch. Unscrew the switch from the electrical box and pull it out with the wires still attached. Identify the three different colored wires and attach the new light switch to the wires in the same way they had been attached to the old switch.
Then use a voltage tester to make sure that the circuit is dead. If any of the wires seem weakened trim and re strip the end of the wire to meet your needs. When more than three switches are needed you may simply place more 4 way switches between the three way switches. After you do this remove the switch cover plate and test the wires with a voltage tester for safety. Turn off the power to the switch at the circuit panel or fuse box. A return wire which carries the load to the fixture and may be black red or any other color except green.
Unscrew and remove the switch plate. Two or three wires will be attached to the switch. Flipping the switchs lever opens and closes the hot wire circuit leading to the light fixture allowing you to turn it on and off at will. Youll need access to the white neutral wires. An incoming hot wire which is black. 4 way switches are a convenient way to operate lighting fixtures from three or more locations.
The main wire that will go from one switch to the other should have 4 wires total black white ground and red. Turn on the switch then place one lead of the tester on either of the black wires connected to the switch and the other lead on the green ground screw. Unscrew the switch from the electrical box and pull it out with the. Turn off the power to the switch at the main circuit breaker or fuse panel. 4 way switch wiring. How to replace a four way light switch.