3 way switch wiring dimmer light. I understand how to wire a single pole or 3 way switch but i am having trouble replacing a single pole and adding a 3 way switch. When replacing an existing 3 way switch take note of how the existing switch is wired before you remove the wiring then refer to your notes to help you wire the new 3 way dimmer switch. If you are replacing an existing 3 way switch. On most 3 way switches two of the terminals are the same color typically silver or brass and the third terminal called a common terminal is a different often darker color.
The following 3 diagrams show the wiring for a specially made dimmer that can be used in these circuits in place of either of the the 3 way switches or both. Another nm cable connects from this dimmer box to the light fixture box. Ever wonder how to install a dimmer switch on a three lighting circuit. After the lighting level has been set on one dimmer the other switch will turn.
They allow you the ability to turn the lights on or off from either location. Dimmer switch wiring diagrams including 3 way dimmers. Many manufacturers are now producing dimmer switches that can be used for either single pole or 3 way switches. With conventional dimmer wiring using nm cable a nm cable supplies line voltage from the electrical panel to the dimmer outlet box.
It is not unusual for the wires inside of an outlet box to be covered by spray paint from the initial construction of a dwelling. The key to wiring 3 way switch and 3 way dimmer switch wiring. Multiple switch wiring 3 way and single pole. Unlike 3 way dimmer switches which cannot support multiple dimmers on the circuit multi location dimmer switches allow for dimming controls in more than one location.
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. 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagrams. Well think no more. Three way switches can commonly be found at either end of a hallway near the doors of a very large room with multiple entryways or at the top and bottom of a set of stairs.
But if you have a long hallway and you want to add a little ambiance to it or you just want to cut down. 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagram multiple lights. This arrangement allows for lowering the lights in a 3 way circuit. Question about wiring 3 way switches.
Not all three way switches have these terminals placed in the same configuration so you have to pay attention to their colors and the instructions that come with the package when wiring them. In my unfinished basement i have one switch at the bottom of the stairs controlling 7 light in various rooms.