Three Way Light Switch Schematic

So what you should see if you have correct 3 wire electrical cable romex is a black power white neutral and now a 3rd red wire.

Three way light switch schematic.

With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light. 3 way switch schematic wiring diagram. This 3 way light switch diagram shows connections when the power comes into the first switch on to the second switch and then on to two or more lights switched by the 3 way circuit. Three way switches allow for controlling a light fixture from two separate locations these are usually used at the top and bottom of a flight of stairs or at two different entrances to a room.

Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram. Below is a simple 3 way schematic that can be applied to all three way electrical light switch connections. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.

Two very old three way switches. No longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes 3 way switch wiring diagram light fixture between switchesline voltage enters the first 3 way switch outlet box light fixture is located between switch boxes no longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes. 3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.

Regardless of what 3 way switch wiring diagram you re following you ll need to use a 3 wire cable to connect the two 3 way light switches. Wiring a 3 way light switch. Two very old three way switches are depicted in the photo above.