A three way light switch is different than a traditional single pole light switch as it contains an extra screw to connect an extra wire. When both switches are aligned so that they both send power through the same leg the light goes on.
Why Are My New Switches Tripping The Circuit Breaker
3 way switch only works when one switch is on. Switch a works regardless of position of switch b. Any other combination and no light. The white neutral should only be connected to the light fixture not either switch. Scott first gives an explanation of the three way switch two switches that control one light fixture. Switch b only works when the light was first turned on by switch a. The common terminal is the bridge between the power supply and the load typically a light fixture.
I have two additional questions but if ive already take. Each switch powers one or the other leg at all times. Make sure only one switch has the hot going to the common. Dont know if it ever work correctly or if it was originally wired wrong. The following image shows a typical spdt toggle switch with its terminals. The light only will turn on when both switches are down.
For wiring i have selected the standard way with a 37v lithium ion battery as the power supply. Both switches have to same wiring setup. This is known as the common screw and its usually black instead of brass or silver. The spdt toggle switch can be considered as a two way light switch as it has three terminals and works very similar to the two way light switch. If this switch is in the down position the second switch three way switch works as long as one switch is in the up position. Just move in and ive got a 3 way switch in the kitchen.
There are a pair of wires that run between the two switches. The common terminal is one of three electrically active terminals on a 3 way switch not including the ground terminal that is located on the metal frame of the mounting ears. I think you have the hot line going to one of the switch legs on switch a. Another dead giveaway of a three way switch is the absence of on and off markings. There are many ways that a three way switch can be wired but usually power or the light fixture connect to the load side of the switch and traveler wires run between traveler screws on both switches. Three way switch works as as one switch is in the up position.
Three way switches work by alternating the power connection between 2 legs called travelers.
Gallery of 3 Way Switch Only Works When One Switch Is On
