4 Way Switch Circuits
WHILE EXTREME CARE HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS
SELF-HELP DOCUMENT, THE AUTHOR AND/OR PROVIDERS OF THIS DOCUMENT ASSUMES
NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS, NOR IS ANY LIABILITY ASSUMED
FROM THE USE OF THE INFORMATION, CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, BY THE
AUTHOR and / OR PROVIDER.
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For
those that live where the new 2011 NEC code is in effect, please read
2011
NEC New Rule 'Switch Connections' If this
applies to you, the switch wiring options that is in compliance with
this new rule will be indicated bellow as '2011 NEC compliant' |
The most common use of 4 way switch circuits is to
control one or more lighting fixtures from 3 or more locations. There
really is no limit to how many switches that can be used, however on
this site I have created wiring scenarios for 3 switches, if more is
desired then read the article at the link bellow in regards to adding
additional 4 way switches. Three way switches are also required at the
beginning and end of the circuit, with 4 way switches between these.
There are a variety of different ways to wire a 4
way switch circuit, factors that can influence your selection can
include...
-
personal preference
-
where the existing source of power is located
-
ease of routing new wire cables
-
number of wire cables required for a particular wiring selection which
can also include box fill concerns
-
some wiring scenarios in instances where the new 2011 NEC 404.2(c)
compliance is required could mean that at least in some parts of the
switch wiring circuit, you will require a 4 wire (plus bare) cable.
Although these types of cables are available they are not sold
everywhere. If you have difficulty in obtaining a 4 wire (plus bare)
cable or simply wish to avoid the need to get that, then choose a wiring
selection that can comply with the new NEC rule (if compliance is
required) and yet does does not require a 4 wire cable (plus bare), some
wiring scenarios only require a 3 wire (plus bare) cable and will still
comply with the new 2011 NEC 404.2(c) rule. 3 wire cables (which
includes a bare wire) are sold in more places and therefore easier to
get.
Click on
the desired selection bellow
Identifying the Correct
Screw on 4-Way and 3-Way Switches
Adding Additional 4 way switches
If 2011 NEC
404.2 (C) is not applicable to you or if you fall under an exception
to this new rule. |
2011 NEC 404.2 (C) Compliant Switch
Circuit Options |
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Written By: Donald Kerr
Proof Read / Released: July 12, 2013
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