Three Pole Switch Wiring

Our easy to follow 3 way wiring diagram changing from a single pole to a 3 way light switch allows you to turn on any light from multiple locations such as at the top and bottom of a staircase or both ends of a hallway.

Three pole switch wiring.

Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram. The photo below shows the wiring at the other 3 way location which was a single pole switch originally. A 3 way switch allows you to turn a light on or off from two different switches. The black hot wire in the electrical box above is connected at the other end to the black line wire and gets connected to the black or red screw on the 3.

You don t need the other terminal on the three way switch so it s fine to cover it over with electrical tape to ensure the terminals don t get mixed up. 3 way switch wiring diagram. No more fumbling in the dark. 3 way switches are useful for large rooms with multiple entrances but require a bit more wiring than a standard single pole switch.

To use a three way switch as a single pole one connect the hot wires to the common terminal and the traveler on the same side of the switch body. With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring. This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be. With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.

Wiring a 3 way light switch. Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.