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2007-10-30 15:22:49 · 10 answers · asked by Michael H 1 in Home & Garden Do It Yourself (DIY)

10 answers

It is fairly advanced.
In a 3 way set up, one switch feeds to the next switch and then to the light. In a typical home the power goes to the light first with wiring brought down to the switch(es). So in a 3-way there is normally wiring passing through the light fixture to switch 2.

Switch 1 has 1 input and 2 outputs. The 2 outputs go over to switch 2. Switch 2 takes the 2 as inputs and delivers 1 output to the light.

A good home improvement store can help with selection of materials.

These days you'd be using individual wires inside conduit. Although "romex" wiring is still allowed in certain places, and even recommended in some others.

The 4-way switch system consists of two 3-way switches and one 4-way switch. The 4-way unit goes in between the others, with 2 inputs and 2 outputs.

If that's too confusing, get an electrician.

2007-10-30 15:28:26 · answer #1 · answered by E. F. Hutton 7 · 0 0

unless you have an IQ over 120, or years of electrical skill under your belt I would pass on this. However, there are several DIY books out there with instructions, you just might go through a few switches in the process, as getting right on your first try is somewhat unlikely.

2007-11-01 13:10:50 · answer #2 · answered by CubeScience 3 · 0 0

Someone suggested Leviton.com which is a good start. Your local library may have several books on doing your own electrical work. However, keep in mind that your town may have ordinances which require work to be done by licensed electricians. Also insurance companies frown on DYI. In the event of fire one might be SOL. Understand?

2007-10-30 15:36:40 · answer #3 · answered by googie 7 · 0 0

It's easy enough.
The three way switches will have
two brass screws and one silver or black screw.
the 4 way switch will have two screws on each
end, (top & bottom).
Power goes into the black screw on the first
3 Way. From there two wires go to the first
set of screws on the four way. From there, two wires go from the second set of screws to the brass screws on the second 3 Way. from there power goes from the black screw to the load.
(The white, (neutral), wire goes direct to the load.

2007-10-31 14:29:48 · answer #4 · answered by Irv S 7 · 0 0

If this is a new installation most local jurisdictions require an electrician install it. Replacement of existing devices is commonly allowed within certain limits, ( you probably can't change your own service panel, etc. ).

2007-10-31 04:38:49 · answer #5 · answered by Ed W 2 · 0 0

Here is a video that should help. If you can't follow these simple rules call in a pro who can .

http://www.askthebuilder.com/3_Way_Switch_Video.shtml

2007-10-30 16:57:24 · answer #6 · answered by Rich Z 7 · 0 0

Dont do it. Get a licenced Electrician to do it

2007-10-30 15:26:47 · answer #7 · answered by Vice M 2 · 0 0

You can go to www.leviton.com. They have training material on thier site. Hope it helps

2007-10-30 15:28:48 · answer #8 · answered by josh p 2 · 0 0

If you have to ask call an electrician

2007-10-30 15:26:30 · answer #9 · answered by moscow1677 2 · 0 0

http://www.handymanusa.com/articles/3wayswitch.html

2007-10-31 17:25:47 · answer #10 · answered by John himself 6 · 0 0

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