Three-Way Switches?

Question

I just recently replaced all the switches and outlets in my home. Everything is working fine, however, there are two three-way switches that I replaced. They control a light in the basement. Since replacing them, they do not function properly. I can turn the light on and off from one location, but not off from the other, and vice-versa. Is this a wiring problem? Should both switches be ground? Please Help!

Answer 1

Grounding has nothing to do with this problem.

You simply have the wrong wire on the identified terminal. The identified terminal being the darker screw.

One switch must have the live power to the identified terminal, the other switch must have the load to the identified terminal.

The two silver screws on each switch are the travelers and must go to the other two silver screw on the other switch.

Hope this helps, its hard to explain not being right there to show you.

: )

Answer 2

Three way switches have what are called "travelers". These are two wires that "travel between the two switches to allow control at either switch. Be sure that you put the right wire on the right screw. What you probably have now is that you can turn the light on at one and then be able to turn is off at the other but not vice versa.

Answer 3

listen to kitty. you can also get more info from books on electrical repairs from a home improvement store. if your wires are color coded you will have an easier time. in my old house i had to determine which switch had the hot wire, and which wire at the other switch was the light(load). then that meant the other two were the runners. it's easy once you can "see" the theory behind it, but hard since you can't follow the wires physical. take your time,i hope you have a multi meter or test light to find the hot wire and the one to the light. good luck, and take your time and get it right.

Answer 4

confusing factor. seek using search engines like google. it can help!

Answer 5

This should help.