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Testimonials

Great help on a 3-Way wiring diagram from your website.  Much appreciated, as I have had the same 3 Way switch, non-operational, for over 5 years.. arghhh...I know it is a simple thing yet looking at both sets of wires and trying to imagine the wire runs was a bit aggravating but you made it simpler!

Kudos
Brian, Winnipeg
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Awesome. Thanx Terry. Cool site and extremely informative.

Johnny
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Thank you for the info on the three way switch you saved the day.

EDDIE B.  in MIssissippi
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Thank-you for your free video, it helped.

Bob
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What a great explanation!!  You have been so helpful.  Thanks so much.  I will hunt down that timer and give it a go.

Ken
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Your website is great.  I have it bookmarked and now visit frequently.  I have no previous electrical experience and your website helped me redo some wiring correctly and way easier than I thought it would be.

Thanks again.

Nicholas V
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Hi Terry,

I stumbled onto your website while doing a Google search for an electrical panel that's being installed in my new home that's currently being built.

Even though I've been doing my own electrical work for many years (I am not a contractor), I found your site to be a  valuable resource of information for all things electrical. Your site is much appreciated. Thank you.

 
Regards,
Mike A
Toronto, Canada

 

 

Do-It-Yourself Repairs and Basic Wiring Projects:
Wiring a 4-Way Switch

By Terry Peterman, the Internet Electrician

Summary:  The 4-way circuit is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations.  This article outlines the steps to wiring a typical 4-way switch.

 

 

4-Way Switching Circuits

If you understand the logic behind the 3-way circuit, the 4-way will not seem that difficult. 

 

When Do You Need a 4-Way Switch?

The 4-way is used when you want to control the light or lights from two or more locations.

4-Way Switch - NOT To Be Confused With a 2-Pole Switch!

 A 4-way switch has four terminals (do not confuse with and purchase a 2-pole switch by mistake). 

 

 

The 4-way terminals are labelled “In” and “Out” (two of each).  The mechanics of this switch are simple, in that they either switch the travellers straight through, or criss-cross them. 

 

 

To add more than three locations for one set of lights, you would just insert more 4-way switches in between the two 3-ways.  The following diagram illustrates the easiest way to connect a 4-way circuit. 

NOTE:  The picture is a thumbnail - click on it to enlarge it.


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