You probably have at least one light that is controlled by two separate switches either switch can turn it on or off. These switches do not have an onoff position like single pole switches.
Connecting A Leviton 3 Way Dimmer Switch To New 3 Way Circuit
What is 3 way switch. 3 way is the electricians designation for a single pole double throw spdt switch. In this diagram the incoming hot wire attaches to the first switchs common dark colored terminal. 3 wire cable runs to the switches on each side of the light. The three way switch is a variation of the standard single pole switch which controls a light only from one location. Three way switch wiring source in middle. Ken a homeowner from toronto ontario.
Another dead giveaway of a three way switch is the absence of on and off markings. There are two clear giveaways that identify a switch as being a three way type. There are no onoff markings on the switch toggle. A third type is the four way switch which is used in conjunction with two three way switches to control lighting from more than two locations. The usual practice in home construction is to use 3 way switches. This 3 way switch wiring diagram shows how to wire the switches and the light when the power is coming to the light switch.
A properly functioning 3 way switch would be an added bonus. I just need to get the fixture working again. This electrical question came from. It is important to understand how these are wired before attempting to troubleshoot or replace. The two hot wires of three wire cable connect to a pair of brass colored traveler terminals on each switch. This is known as the common screw and its usually black instead of brass or silver.
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. Slide your mouse over it to see it change state requires javascript enabled. Originally the upstairs switch controlled the fixture and the downstairs switch controlled the fixture only when the upstairs switch was on. Learn about a three way switch. There are three screw terminals on the body of the switch in addition to the green grounding. Such markings are not needed with this type of switch as they are.
The diagrams below show the conventional wiring for 3 way switches. A light or lights can be controlled by more than one switch. In this arrangement the source for the circuit is at the light fixture which is located in the middle of the circuit. A 3 way switch is shown below. This configuration may be used in open plan homes or in large kitchens or great rooms where a central bank of lighting fixtures might be controlled from more than two entry points. 3 way switches are used to control lights with two switches.
Gallery of What Is 3 Way Switch
