If you are planning to install a 2 way light switch, then you have come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you step by step on how to wire a 2 way light switch. We will also provide you with a wiring diagram, frequently asked questions, and a table of wire colors. So, let’s get started!
What is a 2 Way Light Switch?
A 2 way light switch is a switch that can control a light from two different locations. For example, you can turn on a light from the top of the stairs and turn it off from the bottom of the stairs. This type of switch is commonly used in hallways, staircases, and large rooms.
Before we get into the wiring diagram, let’s take a look at the different types of 2 way light switches available:
Types of 2 Way Light Switches
There are two types of 2 way light switches:
- Two-Wire Control Switch: This type of switch is used in installations where there are only two wires available (live and neutral) and no earth wire. It is commonly found in older properties.
- Three-Wire Control Switch: This type of switch is used in new installations where there is an earth wire available. It offers better safety and is the recommended option.
Wiring Diagram for 2 Way Light Switch
Below is the wiring diagram for a two-wire control switch:
| Wire Colors | Function |
|---|---|
| Brown (Live) | Connect to Common Terminal (C) |
| Blue (Switched Live) | Connect to L1 Terminal |
| Grey (Switched Live) | Connect to L2 Terminal |
Below is the wiring diagram for a three-wire control switch:
| Wire Colors | Function |
|---|---|
| Brown (Live) | Connect to Common Terminal (C) |
| Blue (Switched Live) | Connect to L1 Terminal |
| Black (Switched Live) | Connect to L2 Terminal |
| Green/Yellow (Earth) | Connect to Earth Terminal |
Step by Step Guide on Wiring a 2 Way Light Switch
Follow the steps below to wire a 2 way light switch:
- Switch off the power supply to the circuit.
- Remove the cover of the switch.
- Identify the wires connected to the switch. They should be a brown (live) wire, a blue (switched live) wire, and a grey (switched live) wire in the case of a two-wire control switch. For a three-wire control switch, there will be an additional green/yellow (earth) wire.
- Disconnect the wires from the switch by unscrewing the terminals.
- Connect the brown (live) wire to the common terminal (C) of the new switch.
- Connect the blue (switched live) wire to the L1 terminal of the new switch.
- If you have a two-wire control switch, connect the grey (switched live) wire to the L2 terminal of the new switch. If you have a three-wire control switch, connect the black (switched live) wire to the L2 terminal and the green/yellow (earth) wire to the earth terminal of the new switch.
- Screw the terminals of the switch securely.
- Making sure that there are no exposed wires, fix the switch back onto the wall and replace the cover.
- Switch on the power supply to the circuit and test the switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a two-wire control switch in a new installation?
A: It is not recommended as a three-wire control switch offers better safety with the use of an earth wire.
Q: What if the wire colors do not match the wiring diagram?
A: Seek help from a qualified electrician to identify the wires before attempting to wire the switch.
Q: Can I wire multiple 2 way light switches together?
A: Yes, you can. The wiring diagram remains the same, but you will need to connect the common terminals of all the switches together.
Conclusion
Wiring a 2 way light switch does not have to be complicated. By following this article’s step-by-step guide and using the wiring diagram provided, you can easily wire a 2 way light switch. Remember to always switch off the power supply to the circuit before attempting any wiring, and seek help from a qualified electrician if needed.
