A two position switch is a convenient way to control lights from different locations in your home. However, they are not always easy to wire. There are a few things you should know before you begin to wire one.
The wiring diagram for a 2-way switch is simple to understand. It involves a single hot wire (black) and a neutral wire (white).
To complete the circuit, the switches need to create a path for current to flow and a bulb to light up. When both switches are up, the path is completed and current flows to light up the bulb. If either switch is down, current cannot flow and the bulb does not glow.
This type of wiring is often called “two-wire control”. It is the most common method used when wiring a 2 position switch.
When using a 2-wire connection, you must make sure that all of the wires are bonded to a ground source in your circuit breaker panel. This will help prevent the wires from coming into contact with each other and causing an electrical shock.
You should also use a wire connector with a spring in it to ensure that all of the wires are securely connected. This will help protect the wires from chafing and injury when they are exposed to heat or moisture.
Once all of the wires are securely bonded together, you can begin to wire the switch. The first step is to attach a piece of insulated wire to the common terminal on the switch.
The wire should be inserted between the two screw terminals. Then, you need to connect the ground wire to the green screw on the switch. You can do this with long nose pliers by wrapping the end of the wire around the green screw and squeezing it tightly.
After that, you need to connect the incoming ground and load ground wires as well. This will help protect the wires from being chafed or damaged by the switch.
When you have completed the connection, you can install your switch in the wall. If you are not comfortable working with electrical wires, it is best to hire an electrician.
Another way to wire a two-way switch is to use three-wire connections. This will allow you to use a larger switch and have more wiring options.
Wiring a 3-way switch is similar to wiring a 2-way switch, except that you will need more switches and traveler wires. You will also need to cover all of the terminals and bare wire with electrical tape for safety.
You should also remember to ground the switch when you are working with it. This will keep the switch from being energized when it is not in use and will protect your skin from any electrical burns that might occur when you work with it.
When wiring a two-way switch, you should connect the black hot wire to one screw on the switch and the white wire to the other screw. The white wire will be connected to the load that you wish to control.
