December 18, 2011 By Dave Rongey ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under 4-Way Switch, Lighting

Leave a Comment

Helping The Handyman with Four Way Switches

See The Light – Wiring Four Way Switches

• I can’t seem to get the circuit right
• The first three switches work but I can’t get the fourth to work.
• Can you help me out?

Background: Jeremy, a Handyman from Belleville, PA

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Jeremy.

Electrical Wiring Diagrams for Four Way Switches

• Jeremy, I have provided the following links that lead to fully detailed information on this website that will assist you with your electrical question:

• 4 Way Switch Wiring
• Light Switch Wiring
• Wiring Diagrams
• 3 Way Switch Diagram

You identified your project to be about 4 Way Switch Wiring, so you might find this information useful:
4 Way Switch Wiring

• 4 Way Switch Wiring
  • Fully explained 4 way switch diagrams. 4-way switches are a convenient way to operate lighting fixtures from three or more locations.
  • The electrical wiring adds additional wiring to the same principles of 3-way switching.

4-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams

• Please Note:
  • To illustrate the 4 way switch wiring, Switch boxes and Fixture boxes are not shown but are obviously required for every application.
  • These diagrams are shown as using the Romex wiring method.
  • These Romex cables contain a ground conductor which is required for all applications as well.
  • The ground conductors are always bonded together to insure the integrity of the ground path.
  • If you are using metal boxes, the ground conductor must be attached to each box by using a threaded ground screw or provided attachment.
  • The frames of the switches which have a ground screw are to be attached to the ground conductor as required.