4-Way Switch Installation

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Installing a 4-Way Switch To A Light Fixture

A 4-way switch is used to turn a light fixture "OFF" and "ON" from three or more locations.

Wiring a light fixture so that it can be turned "ON" or "OFF" from more than 2 locations requires the installation of both 3-way and 4-way switches.

For a complete selection of switches visit: P&S Switches

There are numerous wiring scenarios. If you are replacing a 4-way switch it is only necessary for you to remove the wires from the defective switch and install them on the replacement switch in the same manner.

If you are installing a new circuit, then it is best if you feed the AC power to either the first switch or the light fixture. To feed power to a switch in the middle of the circuit, makes wiring that much more confusing.

It should be noted that the circuit can control more than one light fixture. Additional light fixtures are run in parallel to the first fixture.

Scenario 1:

4 way switch with power to light fixture

Click on diagram for larger view

Scenario 2:

4 way switch with power to switch

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In theory there is no limit to the number of switches that you can have in any specific circuit. Additional switches in the circuit are 4-way switches and are installed between the two 3-way switches:

5 switches controlling a light fixture

Click on diagram for larger view

If your application requires multiple light fixtures controlled by the same 3-way switches the additional light fixtures should be wired in parallel to the first fixture. The circuit should be connected to the point where the first light fixtures wires are connected to the power - after the switches.

Click on diagram for larger view


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