Wiring a 3 way light switch is certainly more complicated than that of the more common single pole switch but you can figure it out if you follow our 3 way switch wiring diagram.
Wiring diagram for three way light switch with dimmer.
It reveals the elements of the circuit as simplified forms as well as the power and also signal connections in between the tools.
This circuit is wired the same way as the 3 way lights at this link.
Also included are diagrams for 3 way dimmers a 3 way ceiling fan switch and an arrangement for a switched outlet from two locations.
Wiring a 3 way light switch.
A wiring diagram is a streamlined conventional pictorial depiction of an electrical circuit.
In the diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies power from the panel to the dimmer box the black line wire connects to the common terminal of the 3 way dimmer a 3 wire nm connects the travelers of the dimmer to the travelers of the 3 way switch traveler wires are interchangeable on each switch.
Many manufacturers are now producing dimmer switches that can be used for either single pole or 3 way switches.
Assortment of leviton 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagram.
3 way switched outlet wiring.
Three wire cable runs between the switches and the outlet.
With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.
If you are replacing an existing 3 way switch.