3 Way Switch – Control appliances with ease
Some of us are familiar with 3 way switches. It is also known as a 2 way switch. Technically most wiring diagrams do refer to it as a 3 way switch. Anyway names aside, the most important task for this electrical accessory is that it let you operate any appliance from more than one switch.
Image Courtesy : smarthome.com
The most common application for this is found in bedrooms, where lights, ceiling fans and the like are preferred to be controlled by two switches. One which is near the doorway and the other is usually placed near to the bed.
The 3 way switch offers convenience to home users and adds an element of safety too. Imagine that during emergencies, you could turn the lights on from your bed and avoid walking in the dark where chances are that you would stumble on something.
People even go in for fan regulators near the bed as it avoids the need of one having to get up and change the speed settings.
A simple wiring diagram is given below for your understanding.
Image Courtesy : hometoys.com
So, if you are in the process of purchasing a new home, make sure that you have this neat device installed in key areas. Other useful applications include, stairway lighting, outdoor lights which can be controlled both from inside the home and the outside. Use your imagination and you could end up having a slightly more comfortable home.
Comments, questions are welcome.
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Posted by Vivek
on Jan 5 2008 Filed under Socket/Switch.
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Where’s the ground? Your diagram makes no mention of the 14/2 or 14/3 necessary nor is it really possible to wire two 3-way switches as you’ve diagrammed. In your diagram you split the 14/2 from the Service into two separate wires which violates all Electrical codes in all regions of North America. Wire the 14/2 to the first 3 way and then 14/3 between the two 3 ways and then 14/2 from the non-Service 3 way switch to the light.
for practical purpose, one swiitch should be placed in reverse direction to other, so that on stair case, on opposite positions of switches, bulb will turn ON
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Anonymous needs to go back to night school. The diagram is not showing separate wires, they are part of the 14/2 or 14/3. If you cannot figure out where the ground is, again – night school.
DaveCarrera4 is right. Anonymous should stay that way!
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