Either way complete these five steps for 3 way light switch wiring. A three way switch is built and wired a little differently than a conventional single pole light switch.

How To Replace A Three Way Light Switch Dummies
Rewire 3 way switch. Turn off the breaker controlling this light. Connect the wire marked common to the black or dark colored screw. Disconnect all wires from both of the 3 way switches but do not unwrap or un nut any of the twisted wire. Connect the two remaining traveler wires to the two brass or light colored. Turn off the power to the switch at the circuit or fuse panel. Three way light switches control a light from two locations such as from both ends of a staircase or hallway.
Unscrew and remove the switch plate. You may also need to cut additional breakers if either or both of the. To replace a three way switch follow these steps. Turn off the correct circuit at your electrical panel. Heres a fail safe process to fix a three way setup that isnt working. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.
With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. When wiring a 3 way switch first screw the terminal screws of the new switch until they are difficult to turn. Then use a voltage tester to make sure that the circuit is dead. Unscrew the switch from the electrical box and pull it out with the wires still attached. Connect the ground wire to the green screw. Its likely youll also need to replace the.
This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. 3 way switch wiring diagram. Its likely youll also need to replace the. For starters it doesnt have off and on printed on the toggle and it doesnt have a top and bottom. Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. Add an electrical box for the second 3 way switch in the basement.