3 Way Switch Explained - How to Wire (2) 3-Way Electrical Switches to Control a Single Light Fixture

This video provides a practical understanding of how a single pole double throw switch (3-way switch) works. I also provide instructions on how to wire three-way switches so that 2 switches can be used to operate one light fixture. When wired correctly, (2) 3-way switches can be used to control a single light fixture, outlet, or ceiling fan. By toggling power over the transport wires, current can be provided in both switch positions on a single pole double throw switch (3 way switch). I'll be adding a 4way electrical switch to this circuit in the coming weeks. Adding a double pole, double throw switch to this circuit will allow the ability to control a single light fixture with 3 switches.

Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Mark Jenkins, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Mark Jenkins assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Mark Jenkins recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Mark Jenkins, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Mark Jenkins.

[RobbieWilkes]

Thank you! Was trying to hook up 2 motion activated switches for a single light, but the included instructions on how to do so left a bit to be desired. Even though it didn't match up to what I had, your common sense explanation and demonstration made it make sense. 4 years later and it's still much appreciated.

[earwigismadlove]

I always find myself coming back to your reference when I am making minor changes to my garage wiring or giving a friend a hand. Thank you!

[kevinfernandez]

Thank you for the demonstration, very helpful. Although I could follow the wire paths, as you explained them, I have noticed on a number of video, such as this, that you have actually turned the second switch 180 degrees different than the first switch, so it is a bit more confusing for my simple brain.

[michaelwright]

This is my "save the day video"... One of the easiest to understand videos on 3 way switches out there. The simple fact of explaining the switch operation/function was all I needed, up, down, diagonal. The Leviton instructions do not even explain how their own switch operates. Thank you for the video,

[haroldtrego]

Thanks, helped out a lot, now the switches in my kitchen work correctly now!!!

[skullzdaisy]

Great job on explaining this method of installation

[unknownone]

Yea that does help, I'll have to look when I get home, but when I was done hooking it up you had to use one or the other not both. I did buy a 3 way switch. Yea now I have a better idea of what is going on, instead of looking a bunch of wires sticking out

[glassman]

This video saved my marriage 😂😂😂😂 we went by an electrical book. No help... 5 hours later we found this and we got it... thanks

[nfnf]

A video using actual 14/2 NM-B Wire, 120V light fixture and 120V house current would have been much better than merely mimicking those elements - IMHO.

[waynecombs]

Thank you, great help to this cautious, shade tree handyman.

[gymratt]

VERY WELL DONE! Thank you for putting this out here.

[jtspires]

That’s great tutorial. It explained to me what I needed to know. But it would be great if you could do a video on the same issue involving those Alexa type switches like Gosung because they have some weird description of their wires. For example, they have in and out. I assume in would be positive? I guess I fried the one I had trying to hook it up because it popped. I guess I can check the continuity of those switches with a multimeter also to figure it out. This video goes to my save library

[padillawadz]

How to change the 3way to 2way wiring. Basically I have 2 light bulbs and two 3way switch installed in two locations and they are wired as 3way. I want them to behave as indepenpent switch. Please assist. Thanks

[paulpickard]

If I want a dimmer on this, is just one supposed to have the dimmer?

[noworries]

Very easy to understand. Great video, thank you.

[caseymiller]

Sir my romex doesn't have a red wire...14/2 romex black white and bare copper. What does the red wire signify?

[charlesdizon]

if there is not light, does the black wire leading to the bulb has current?

[patplowman]

Ok so the light in my living room has a switch by the front door and one by the wall way would that be a two way switches or 3 way please let me know thanks

[BGJOHNSTUD]

one of my rental properties have this..2 switches controlling one light..how do i close one? i don't need 2 since they're both only a few steps away from each other..makes no sense on why they built it that way..

[kwamedavis]

Why are you using a neutral for 3way switches?