How to Wire a 3-Way Switch - Wire-by-Wire Diagrams for 3 Common Scenarios

This video covers the essentials of wiring a 3-Way Switch, including line Three Common Scenarios, Wire-By-Wire Detail, and Line vs Load!
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⏰ Chapter Timecodes ⏰
0:00 3-Way Switches
0:49 Line vs Load
1:41 Travelers
3:09 Lights at the End
4:28 Lights In-Between
6:48 Lights at the Start
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Top Homeowner produces videos for informational, educational, & entertainment purposes only. Information here is not to be viewed as advice but as an opinion. Viewers should be aware that if they choose to work on their homes, they do so at their own risk. Top Homeowner is not responsible for any damages that may occur to the property of a viewer. Some of the projects, materials, and techniques may not be suitable for all ages or skill levels. It is up to the viewer to decide whether to consult with a professional before working on their home. We make no claims to the safety of the projects, techniques, or resources featured in this video, and we will not be held responsible for the actions viewers may choose to take with the information provided. It is recommended that viewers use common sense and take all necessary safety measures. Codes, regulations, standards, and rules are constantly changing around the world, so it is the viewer's responsibility to ascertain their local requirements before starting any type of work.

[@user-yw9vs3mf2e]

Great video, so easy to follow. In each scenario he showed a step by step diagram of all the connections. I paused the video at each step and made my connections and it worked out perfectly. He makes it fool proof.

[@simiamalum5487]

I've looked at several diagrams that made me think, "whaaaat?" Great job of breaking it down. I get exactly what's going on now. Cheers!

[@mariner3]

I'm glad I found your channel you make it easy to understand...thanks!

[@TopHomeowner]

Awesome, thanks for the comment!

[@TyBurk1]

Thanks for video! This really helped

[@TopHomeowner]

Glad to hear it!

[@phun4379]

Simply amazing!

[@TopHomeowner]

Many thanks!

[@453902]

This is the smartest explanation I have seen yet, very smart thank you.

[@TopHomeowner]

Thanks! Glad it was helpful

[@mikef2571]

I like how you show the 3 different ways this could be set up.
I'm trying to change out sensor switches for a 3-way switch system. I believe I have the 2nd method you showed. The only thing throwing me off is that the white wires are not marked with black tape.
Simce my knowledge is 0 on this subject, I'm probably going to call an electrician to confirm everything is wired correctly. This is a 30-year-old house I just purchased, and the previous owner made a lot of changes. He's not cerrified/trained in any skill but knows a lot about many things, so he did the work by himself.
That scares me a bit.
Anyway, it was a great presentation. 👍 👏

[@zf5656]

I don't think anybody has every utilized visual drawings for circuitry better. Also, the verbal explanations are simple and clear. While the image is up, I already know how to think about what you're saying. This is beautifully done.

[@TopHomeowner]

Wow, thank you! I'll plan on doing more videos like this.

[@williamrodriguez1258]

I have seen multiple videos and appreciate the graphs and your reference on light receptacles. Do you have a video on floor receptacles and how line and load effect the flow of current? Especially, if there’s a light receptacle that turns the receptacles on and off. Is there a way to wire a receptacle incorrectly causing the flow of electricity to be interrupted? For example, an HVAC unit in between two receptacles.

[@kaishun86]

Can I connect red on travler terminal #1 and black on travler terminal #2 in 3-way switch? (the pair on top side of the switch)
Because light is on when I off all switches(i have to on one switch and off the other switch to off the light), i want to light off when I off all switches.

[@leatt4693]

How do you hook up a switch with lights and plug when the main power from the panel is 14/3 wire?

[@rynalien1446]

The way i remember the difference between line and load is... The "line" is like the main power "line" outside and the load is whatever you are trying to power

[@jacobgrayman2082]

In the last method, is it possible to run a neutral to the switch box for a smart switch that requires a neutral?

[@ITALO2275]

I actually have the same question. New code now requires that we leave a white at the box. So i would think maybe use a 14/4?

[@luvanime1986]

I have an 1974 home (alum wires, but I've installed short copper lines with anti-corrosive in the wire nut connection on the pigtail) with a hallway with 2 light fixtures and 3 light switches, the two lights mounted between the 3 switches. When a light switch is flipped, theists will come on after 10-30 minutes, like they have to.warm up and one end switch doesn't do anything. I can't find a video with 3, 3way light switches and 2 light fixtures which would help me see if there are some things miswjred. Do you have video on it or would it be possible to get a good diagram from you? If you let me know, I can send my email. Thanks in advance.

[@TopHomeowner]

This may help you: www.buildmyowncabin.com/electrical/wiring-diagrams-3way-7.html
And since you have 3 switches: www.buildmyowncabin.com/electrical/how-to-wire-4-way-switch.html