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Electrical Wiring

Occupancy sensor replacing 3-way switches

13 years ago

I want to install an occupancy sensor in my laundry room. Currently, this circuit has two switches controlling one fluorescent light fixture. My question is what do I do with the second switch? It is no longer needed. Can it be wired in a circuit with an occupancy sensor? Thanks.

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Comments (4)

Bruce in Northern Virginia
13 years ago
There are different ways to wire 3 way switches, so It is difficult to answer the question without knowing more about the setup.
This site explains the possible variations.
http://www.homeimprovementweb.com/information/how-to/three-way-switch.htm

Bruce
petey_racer
13 years ago
Read the instructions.
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ace_
13 years ago
your laundry room has 2 entrances?

if you have 2 3-way switches then that means that the power source is at one switches common and the other switches common is feeding the light

find out which switch is getting the 120v source and connect your new sensor switch there

use the other wire ((perhaps the red)) and wirenut it to the "common wire" from the other switch box

then cap the ends of the unused wire in both boxes
User
13 years ago
Does the sensor need a neutral?

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