Wiring 3 and 4 Way Switches
4-way switch wiring requires you to also install two 3-way switches. This is a 3-way switch. Copyright 2018 Tim Carter
"The placement of the switches is critical. The 4-way switches must be in between the 3-way switches."
4 Way Switch Wiring TIPS
- Connect the traveler wires to the right screws
- 3-way switches must be used with one, or more, 4-way switches
- WATCH the 3 and 4-way switch videos BELOW
- 4-way switches go in between two 3-way switches
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DEAR TIM: I need to know how to wire a 4-way switch. I have two interior hallway lights that are controlled by three separate electrical switches.
My husband tried to install new decorative switches and now the lights come on only part of the time. What in the world do you think he did wrong? I need an aspirin! - R.L.
DEAR R. L.: In all fairness, he may have done nothing wrong.
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4-Way Switch Wiring is Easy
You possibly have a defective switch. However, the smart money is on your husband. Sounds like another weekend warrior who was not prepared for battle.
The problem could be in the two 3-way switches that are part of the circuit. Watch this video first:
Your problem is a fairly common one. It involves what are known as 3-way and 4-way electrical switches. These simple devices create more problems than they deserve.
What Are The Traveler Wires?
There are special wires called travelers that pass between the two switches. These wires must connect to the bright brass screws on each 3-way switch and on to the bottom two, or top two, screws of a 4-way switch.
I know that seems confusing, that's why I created two videos for you to watch below. Watch the 3-way switch video first.
What is the Continuous Hot Wire?
The continuous hot wire is the line wire from the electric panel and as long as the circuit breaker is on, there is always power in this wire.
This continuous hot wire connects to a special black screw on a 3-way switch. You'll see it in the video below.
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Common Single Pole Switch Video
Watch this video about a standard single-pole switch. This is the most common switch in any home. A single-pole switch is a switch that turns on an overhead light, possibly controls a table lamp or causes a fan to operate.
I need you to understand how power passes through this basic switch before we move onto the 3-way and 4-way switches.
Watch this video first.
3-Way Switch Video
Now that you understand how current is controlled by a simple switch, let's look at the 3-way switch.
Why Use A 3-Way Switch?
You use a 3-way switch to control one, or more, lights from two different locations.
Common locations where you'd find a 3-way switch useful are:
- hallways
- staircases
- large rooms with two entry/exit doors
4-Way Switch Video
Watch this video to see how to properly install a 4-way switch. Here's what's fascinating. You can install one, or more, 4-way switches between two 3-way switches!
4-way switch wiring is used to control lights, fans, or other electrical fixtures from three, or more, points.
Where Does a 4-Way Switch Go?
The 4-way switches must be in between the 3-way switches.
In other words, the power from your circuit panel must first enter the 3-way switch before it goes to the 4-way switch. From that 4-way switch, it then travels to an additional 4-way switch or, in your case, to the final 3-way switch.
The path that the electricity follows as it passes between the switches is not unlike a railroad switching yard.
Three-way and 4 way switches are easy to distinguish.
A 3-way switch has three screws plus the green grounding screw. Remember, the one screw will be painted BLACK. Go back and watch the video to see what wires go to what screws.
A 4-way switch will have four screws plus the green grounding screw. Just watch the 4-way switch video once more to see how easy it is to connect the wires to the correct screws.
Your lights will work perfectly in just a few minutes.
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