Single pole vs 3 way switch install#

Also I think you are right that the two black wires in the wire nut are not neutral, but the white wires actually have 3 wires coming together. That all makes sense except for the dead end switch part, but it does not seem to apply to me I think since I don't see any of my switches having white, black, and red wires all connected directly on the switch.

Lastly, for the switch that I will not be using, is it ok to keep the ground wire on the switch and put wire nuts on the rest as in the video? I am planning to leave the switches in place even if they are nonfunctional as I'll need to hook them back up later as they were when I move out since I am renting this apartment.

Is it necessary to figure out the load and line wire on both switches prior to wiring this as in the video?.

I am also curious if the 2 black wires with the wire nut on them in picture 2 are the neutral wires and what are the 3 wires coiled in the back for in picture 4?.

I was mainly wondering if someone with some experience could tell me if I identified my wires correctly? I will get a voltage detector to make sure I got the right one as the hot wire.

I came across this helpful video:, but have some questions about my particular setup as shown in the pictures below (example of one switch). I believe the current system is set up like the diagram in picture 1. I have several 3-way switches where I really only need one switch to work so the other one can be non-functional.

Decorative switches include styles that rock, turn, or slide rather than toggle.I'm trying to set up some smart switches in my house and that requires only single pole switches. Other special-duty switches can be time-programmed or let you know whether a remote light is on or off. In addition to the familiar toggle and rotary switches, specialty switches can do everything from turning on when you walk into a room to varying the speed of whole-house fans. However, for a fan or fluorescent light, you should buy a special switch rated to control those devices. You can usually replace any single-pole switch with a dimmer. These control a light from two or three switch locations, such as at the top and bottom of a stairwell, at either end of a hallway, or in a large room with multiple entrances.Ī dimmer switch controls a light's intensity. A three-way switch has three terminals a four-way has four. The most common household switch, a single-pole, has two terminals and simply turns power on or off. Here are the basic types of switches and dimmers.

Single pole vs 3 way switch install#

Take a look at our guide to switches and dimmers to pick the right lighting option for your room.īe sure to select a switch that's compatible with the circuit where you want to install it and your lighting needs. After choosing the perfect chandelier, pendant, or recessed lighting for your home makeover, make sure you pick the right electrical switch for your needs. Turning it off breaks the circuit, as the switch creates a gap that stops the flow. However, the basic function always remains the same: Turn a switch on and it completes the circuit, letting electricity flow through it. With different switch styles, wiring needs, and programmable capabilities, the wide variety of light switches and dimmers can be tricky to navigate. Light switches, once a simple decision, are now a home improvement category boasting a number of designs and functions.