One of the most common electrical switches in a house is a 3-way switch. This switch allows you to control a single light fixture from two different locations. Leviton is a well-known brand that offers various types of switches, including 3-way switches. In this article, we will discuss the Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram.
What is a 3-way switch?
A 3-way switch is a type of electrical switch that controls a single light fixture from two different locations. The switch has three terminals: one common and two traveler terminals. The common terminal is connected to the power source, while the traveler terminals are connected to the light fixture. When both switches are in the same position, the circuit is complete and the light is off. When the switches are in opposite positions, the circuit is complete and the light is on.
How does a 3-way switch work?
When you turn on a 3-way switch, the common terminal is connected to one of the traveler terminals, which allows electricity to flow through the switch and to the light fixture. When you turn off the switch, the common terminal is disconnected from the traveler terminal, which breaks the circuit and turns off the light.
What is the Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram?
The Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram shows the connections between the three terminals of the switch and the light fixture. The common terminal is connected to the power source, while the two traveler terminals are connected to the light fixture.
Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram
| Terminal | Wire color | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Common | Black | Connect to power source |
| Traveler | Red or brass | Connect to light fixture |
| Traveler | Red or brass | Connect to light fixture |
The Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram requires the black wire to be connected to the common terminal of the switch, while the red or brass wires are connected to the traveler terminals.
Installation process of Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram
The installation process for a Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram is relatively simple. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Turn off the power
Before you start working on any electrical wiring, it is essential to turn off the power to the switch and the light fixture. You can turn off the power by flipping the circuit breaker or removing the fuse that powers the circuit.
Step 2: Remove the old switch
Remove the old switch by unscrewing the cover plate and removing the screws that hold the switch in place. Disconnect the wires from the old switch and remove it from the wall.
Step 3: Install the new switch
Install the new Leviton 3-way switch by connecting the wires to the appropriate terminals. Connect the black wire to the common terminal and the red or brass wires to the traveler terminals. Screw the switch into place and attach the cover plate.
Step 4: Test the switch
Turn the power back on and test the switch to ensure that it is working correctly. Flip the switch to turn the light on and off from both locations.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between a single pole switch and a 3-way switch?
A single pole switch controls a single light fixture from one location, while a 3-way switch controls a single light fixture from two different locations.
2. How do you wire a Leviton 3-way switch with multiple lights?
When wiring a Leviton 3-way switch with multiple lights, you will need to install a separate 3-way switch for each light. The black wire from the power source is connected to the common terminal of the first switch, while the red or brass wires are connected to the traveler terminals. Then, the red or brass wires from the first switch are connected to the traveler terminals of the second switch, and so on for each additional switch.
3. Can you use a regular switch instead of a 3-way switch?
No. A regular switch only has two terminals and cannot control a light fixture from two different locations.
In conclusion, the Leviton 3-way switch wiring diagram is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone, as long as the power is turned off before working on the switch. Follow the steps provided in this article to install your Leviton 3-way switch and enjoy the convenience of controlling your light fixture from two different locations.
