Three Way Light Switch?

Question

Just replaced 2 three way light switches. Most of the time it works fine, but in certain positions it does not work. Is there a way to determine which wires go where?

Answer 1

Can you be more specific? Is it consistent or not? In other words, the 4 positions of the 2 switches, do they always do the same thing or not? Assuming it is consistent and you wired it wrong: well, you should have paid attention to how the old switch was wired. The 3 terminals of the switch are 1 marked common (and/or has a different color screw) and the other 2 are informally called travelers. The travelers of the two switches are connected to each other, if you can figure that out. The common of one of the switches has power. If you have a voltage tester and can see a wire that is always hot regardless of switch positions (of both switches) that should be on the common of one switch.

Answer 2

I am puzzled by you stating "in certain positions it does not work." Best to pick up a basic wiring book with diagrams at the public library, as it is difficult to explain the connections in writing. Good luck and flip off that breaker before changing it.

Answer 3

If it works sometimes that means one of the switches are defective

Answer 4

YOU PROBABLY DIDN'T ATTACH A TRAVELER WIRE WHICH ALLOWS FOR A CONTINUOUS LOOP - EACH SWITCH OPERATES SAME LIGHT EVEN IF IT IS DOWN & ON, OR UP & OFF!

Answer 5

I just battled a 3-way-4-way-3-way issue..

http://www.danswiringpage.com/diagrams/3w_2lt_pfl.jpg

Answer 6

Try this web site for step-by-step instructions:

http://www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk/three_way_lighting.htm

Answer 7

found a good site for you, not as confusing as the other two above.