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.
Three way light switch schematic.
This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.
With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.
Wiring a 3 way light switch.
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.
3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box.
Two very old three way switches are depicted in the photo above.
Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram.
Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.
Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram.
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.
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.
Below is a simple 3 way schematic that can be applied to all three way electrical light switch connections.
3 way switch schematic wiring diagram.
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.
Two very old three way switches.