These control a light from two or three switch locations such as at the top and bottom of a stairwell at either end of a hallway or in a large room with multiple entrances. For example a long hallway or stairway might use a pair of three way switches at each end so that lights can be turned on when approaching one end of the hall or stairway then shut off from the other end.
How To Wire A Pilot Light Switch 2 And 3 Way Wiring
What is a 3 way light switch. The remaining two terminals are called as interchangeable and travelers. 3 way switches are used to control lights with two switches. In a hallway or large room for example installing three way switches at both ends lets you turn the light fixture on or off from both locations. A three way light switch is different than a traditional single pole light switch as it contains an extra screw to connect an extra wire. The diagrams below show the conventional wiring for 3 way switches. The most common household switch a single pole has two terminals and simply turns power on or off.
The next most common is the three way switch which is commonly used to control a light fixture from two different locations. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. 3 way is the electricians designation for a single pole double throw spdt switch. The whole wiring a light switch project can be completed in a few hours if you dont have to do any drywall removal and repair. In total it has 4 terminal screws. In this article we will solve the mystery of three way switches.
The three way switch comes with three terminal screws and one ground wire screw. Whenever you flip either one of the switches the light changes its state if it is on it turns off and if it is off it turns on. These switches do not have an onoff position like single pole switches. A three way switch has three terminals. A three way wall switch is a common type of light switch that makes it possible to control a ceiling light or other electrical fixture from two different locations in a room. A four way has four.
Theres a dark colored terminal named com in 3 way switches. Most common is the single pole switch the type used to control a light fixture from a single location. This is known as the common screw and its usually black instead of brass or silver. A light or lights can be controlled by more than one switch. It is important to understand how these are wired before attempting to troubleshoot or replace. Another dead giveaway of a three way switch is the absence of on and off markings.
A 3 way switch is shown below. If you have ever wondered how this arrangement works and how each switch knows what the other switch is doing then read on. The usual practice in home construction is to use 3 way switches. Slide your mouse over it to see it change state requires javascript enabled. Keep reading and learn how to wire a light switch.
Gallery of What Is A 3 Way Light Switch
