Installing a 3 way smart switch can be a daunting task for those who are not experienced in the field of electrical wiring. However, with a comprehensive wiring diagram and the right tools, it can be completed in no time. In this article, we will discuss the basics of a 3 way switch and provide a comprehensive guide on how to wire it.
Understanding the Basics of a 3 Way Switch
A 3 way switch is a type of electrical switch which is used to control a single light or multiple lights from two separate locations. The 3 way switch includes three poles, one common pole and two traveler poles. The common pole is the ‘hot’ or black wire, while the two traveler poles are the ‘neutral’ or white wires. When the switch is in the ‘on’ position, the common pole is connected to the traveler poles and the light is turned on. When the switch is in the ‘off’ position, the common pole is disconnected from the traveler poles and the light is turned off.
How to Wire a 3 Way Smart Switch
To begin, you will need to turn off the power to the circuit that you are working on. Once the power is off, you will then need to locate the existing 3 way switch. In most cases, the existing switch will have two black screws and one green screw. The black screws will be the common and traveler poles, while the green screw will be the ground wire. Once you have identified the screws, you will then need to attach the 3 way smart switch to the existing wiring.
To do this, you will need to connect the common pole (black wire) to the black screw on the 3 way smart switch. Then, you will need to connect the two traveler poles (white wires) to the two remaining screws on the switch. Finally, the ground wire (green screw) will need to be connected to the green screw on the 3 way smart switch. Once all the connections are made, you will then need to turn the power back on and test the switch.
Conclusion
Installing a 3 way smart switch can be a daunting task for those who are not experienced in the field of electrical wiring. However, with a comprehensive wiring diagram and the right tools, it can be completed in no time. By understanding the basics of a 3 way switch and following the steps outlined in this article, you will be able to quickly and easily install a 3 way smart switch.
