Wiring 3-way switch

11 years ago

Hi,

I'm currently rewiring my basement and have done all the circuits but one. In an effort to save time/effort/money, I was wondering if it was possible to have a circuit with a 3-way switch that controlled lights BOTH between and at the end of the second switch?

In essence, I'm asking if there's a way to combine both diagrams attached.

Anything would help.

Thanks,

Phil

Featured Answer

phildore
Original Author

11 years ago

last modified: 11 years ago

So .. if I understand correctly ... something like this, but with a light at the end

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Comments (10)

phildore
Original Author
11 years ago
David
11 years ago
They're equivalent. The red wire is the traveller which connects both switches.
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David
11 years ago
For multiple bulbs on a multi-way circuit, you could run a regular romex wire from the first box to the rest. The 3 way wiring only needs to be run between the 2 switches and the first box. Your electrician would know what to do.
phildore
Original Author
11 years ago
Sorry I don't think I made myself clear. I want lights between AND after the second box to be activated by the 3-way switches
User
11 years ago
The quick answer is that you would need 4 wires (+ground) going to the second switch from the middle light.
- 2 travelers
- 1 switch leg
- 1 neutral for the other light after the switch.
Hopefully, you don't need a diagram with that answer ;)
phildore
Original Author
11 years ago
Haha ... a diagram would be great actually!
User
11 years ago
How about, you draw the diagram, and I will tell you if it is correct. Consider it good practice for the actual wiring ;)
User
11 years ago
If you ever do something like the above image with a metal junction box, the two 2wire cables need to go through the same hole into the box, and use the same cable clamp. Otherwise, you create a magnetic problem.

I don't see 4 wires (+ground) going to the second switch from the middle light in that diagram. I doubt that you will find a pre-made diagram for this online. It is highly unusual to not put the 3way light switches at each end of the room and run of lights. It is also more common that a 3way switch is in a two gang box with another switch that is usually supplied by the same circuit. If both two gang boxes are on the same circuit, then the whole wiring diagram changes radically.

If you describe very specifically what you are trying to do, including any other outlets, receptacles, switches, etc. that are in the area or might be on the same circuit, and include some pictures of the actual room, it might be easier to tell you how to save time/effort/money. It is more common to plan out all the circuits first instead of working yourself into a corner.
phildore
Original Author
11 years ago
Thanks for all your help! I had a plan, but as you probably know plans change.

I've decided to take the high road and put the potlights on a seperate switch.

Again thanks for all your help!