how to wire a 3 way switch

5 hours ago 4

To wire a 3-way switch, which allows you to control a light from two different locations, follow these key steps:

Turn off power at the circuit breaker to ensure safety.
Identify and label all wires: power source, travelers, common, ground, and wires going to the light fixture

Connect the bare ground wires from the cables together and attach them to the green ground screw on the switch.
Twist the neutral (white) wires together but do not connect them to the switch.
Attach the black (hot) wire from the power supply cable to the black (common) screw on the switch.
Connect the traveler wires (usually black and red) from the 3-wire cable to the two brass traveler screws on the switch (order does not matter).
Wrap electrical tape around the switch terminals for safety and secure the switch into the box

Connect the bare ground wires and attach to the green ground screw.
Twist the neutral wires together without attaching to the switch.
Connect the black wire from the cable going to the light fixture to the black (common) screw on the switch.
Attach the traveler wires to the two brass traveler screws (order does not matter).
Wrap with electrical tape and secure the switch in the box

Secure both switches with faceplates.
Turn the breaker back on.
Test the switches to ensure the light can be turned on or off from either location.
If not working, turn off the breaker and recheck all traveler and common wire connections

The 3-way switch has three terminals: one common (usually black screw) and two traveler terminals (usually brass screws).
Traveler wires carry current between the two switches.
Wiring should be done with proper tools and safety precautions

This method allows control of the light from two separate switches, commonly used in stairways or large rooms with multiple entrances