Wiring Switches
Switch wiring diagrams
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Switch wiring diagrams can be helpful in many ways, including illustrating wire colors, showing where different elements of your project go using electrical symbols, and showing what wire goes where. This is why a good switch wiring diagram is important for wiring your home safely. Keep your switch-wiring-diagram nearby. You’ll want to refer to it often as you work on your project. |
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*Important Note: When wires or cables such as Romex are used with switching applications and as Switch Legs, the function of a colored wire may be different from what is noted here. The only way to positively identify wires used for any application is to purchase a good volt tester and understand how to use it . [More about electrical testers] |
When looking at any switch-wiring-diagram, start by familiarizing yourself with the symbols that are being used. The electrical symbols will not only show where something is to be installed, but what type of device is being installed. Make sure you understand the symbols on your diagram before beginning your project. There should be a chart on your diagram showing what the different symbols being used represent, much like a legend on a map.
Home Electrical Wiring Diagram Blueprint Series
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For example a surface ceiling light will be shown by one symbol, a recessed ceiling light will have a different symbol, and a surface fluorescent light will have another symbol. Each type of switch will have a different symbol and so will the various outlets. You’ll even find symbols showing the location of smoke detectors, your doorbell chime, and the thermostat. |
Electric Switches |
When it comes to household electricity, there’s a lot more to consider than simply turning a switch On or Off. Some of the most common questions electricians receive involve switches. Once you understand the different types of switches and follow a good switch-wiring-diagram, you should be able to install a new switch in your home or repair existing problems with the ones you have. Here are some of the more common switching
configurations. |
Single-Pole Electrical Switches A Single-Pole
Switch provides switching from one location only. “Single-Pole”
may sound simple, but there are different ways to wire a Single-Pole
Switch. The power can come from either the switch box or the fixture
box and a set of electrical switch wiring diagrams will explain each of
these scenarios to you clearly. |
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3-Way Electrical Switches3-Way
Switches are used to control one or more fixtures from two different
locations. This is a common configuration in hallways and staircases.
There are many ways to wire a 3-Way Switch. The power can start
at a fixture or either of the two switches. Without a switch-wiring-diagram
it can be very easy to make a serious mistake that will cause the
circuit to malfunction and possibly become a hazard. |
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wiring diagram will even take the mystery out of wiring a 3-Way Electrical Dimmer Switch A dimmer switch can be either a rotary or a sliding switch that lets you adjust the intensity of a light. Both are wired the same way. What a great way to enjoy softer light and a reduced energy bill! [See the wiring diagrams for 3-way Dimmer Switches] |
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4-Way Electrical SwitchesOne of the most complicated
wiring configurations is a 4-Way
Switch. |
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Electrical Switches |
As
important as electrical wiring diagrams are to the
successful completion of your wiring project, safety and respect
for electricity are essential. Never work on live circuits.
Before you begin your project, identify the circuit you’re
working on and then turn off power to that circuit at the main panel.
Then confirm that the power is off with a voltage
tester. |
Switch wiring diagrams that explain the basic wiring for lighting control from a single switch location.
3-Way Electrical Switches
Once you see these switch wiring diagrams you will understand how to wire 3-way switches.
Take the mystery out of wiring a 3-way dimmer switch and enjoy softer light and a reduced energy bill when you use one of these wiring diagrams.
4-Way Switches
Did you know - you can have any number of these switches installed on one control circuit? Once you see how these switches are wired you'll be amazed, its just one more step up from the 3-way design - you have to see these wiring-diagrams!
More Wiring Diagrams:
Wiring Diagrams for Outlets
110 Volt Outlets
220 Volt Outlets
Wiring Diagram Symbols
Home Electrical
Questions and Answers
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Home Electrical Residential Wiring Diagrams
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Home Electrical Wiring Diagrams for Outlets
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