A 4 way toggle switch is a type of electrical switch that is used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit. It is commonly used in applications where multiple switches are needed to control a single electrical device, such as a light or a motor. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for a 4 way toggle switch, the different types of 4 way toggle switches, and some frequently asked questions about 4 way toggle switches.
Wiring Diagram for a 4 Way Toggle Switch
The wiring diagram for a 4 way toggle switch is fairly simple. The switch has four terminals, which are labeled as follows: 1, 2, 3, and 4. In order to wire the switch, you will need three 3-way switches, which will be connected to the switch in the following configuration:
| Terminals | Wires |
|---|---|
| 1 | Power source (hot wire) |
| 2 | Wire to load (such as a light or a motor) |
| 3 | Wire from the first 3-way switch |
| 4 | Wire from the second 3-way switch |
The wiring diagram for a 4 way toggle switch is shown below:
As you can see from the diagram, the switch is connected to three 3-way switches in order to control the flow of electricity to the load. When the switch is in the “on” position, the flow of electricity is connected through terminals 1 and 2. When the switch is in the “off” position, the flow of electricity is disconnected.
Types of 4 Way Toggle Switches
There are two main types of 4 way toggle switches: on/on switches and on/off/on switches. On/on switches have two positions where the switch is either on or off, while on/off/on switches have three positions where the switch can be on, off, or in a middle position. The wiring diagram for the two types of switches is slightly different, but the same concept of connecting three 3-way switches applies.
On/On Switch
An example of an on/on switch is the Leviton 5504 toggle switch. The wiring diagram for this switch is as follows:
As you can see, the switch has two positions: on and off. When the switch is in the “on” position, terminals 1 and 2 are connected, and when the switch is in the “off” position, terminals 2 and 3 are connected.
On/Off/On Switch
An example of an on/off/on switch is the Leviton 5505 toggle switch. The wiring diagram for this switch is as follows:
As you can see, the switch has three positions: on, off, and on. When the switch is in the middle position, terminals 2 and 3 are disconnected. When the switch is in either the “on” or “off” position, terminals 1 and 2 or terminals 2 and 3 are connected, respectively.
FAQ About 4 Way Toggle Switches
Q: What is a 4 way toggle switch used for?
A: A 4 way toggle switch is used to control the flow of electricity to a single electrical device, such as a light or a motor, from multiple locations. It is commonly used in stairways, hallways, and large rooms where multiple switches are needed to control a single light.
Q: Can I use a 4 way toggle switch in a three-way circuit?
A: Yes, you can use a 4 way toggle switch in a three-way circuit by connecting it to two 3-way switches. The wiring diagram for this configuration is the same as the one shown above.
Q: How do I wire a 4 way toggle switch with multiple lights?
A: In order to wire a 4 way toggle switch with multiple lights, you will need to connect the switch to a 3-way switch at each location where you want to control the lights. The wiring diagram for this configuration is similar to the one shown above, but with multiple lights connected to the wire from the load terminal on the switch.
Q: Can I use a dimmer switch with a 4 way toggle switch?
A: Yes, you can use a dimmer switch with a 4 way toggle switch by connecting the dimmer switch to one of the 3-way switches in the circuit. However, not all dimmer switches are compatible with all types of lighting, so you will need to check the specifications of the switch and the light to ensure compatibility.
Q: What is the difference between a 4 way switch and a 3 way switch?
A: A 4 way switch is used to control the flow of electricity to a single electrical device from multiple locations, while a 3 way switch is used to control the flow of electricity to a single electrical device from two locations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 4 way toggle switch is a useful tool for controlling the flow of electricity to a single electrical device from multiple locations. The wiring diagram for a 4 way toggle switch is fairly simple, and there are two main types of switches to choose from: on/on switches and on/off/on switches. By understanding the basics of 4 way toggle switch wiring, you can easily install and use these switches in your home or workplace.
