There are at least 5 ways of wiring a 3-way switch, and each of those will require a slightly different setup. Now what? The first step in automating your basic 3-way setup is identifying the wiring. You’ve got a 3-way that you want to add to your Z-Wave network. The average DIY handyman/woman will need to know a single pole switch and a 3-way. Nothing seems to make sense to me, and I will leave the nomenclature for electricians and scholars. Why is it called a 3-way? I’ve been told that it’s because there are 3 ways for the electricity to flow, or that originally there were 3 points of contact. NOTE: most Z-Wave devices will support up to a 5-way switch.
#3 way smart switch wiring how to#
For Z-Wave purposes (and this blog entry) we are writing about how to install GE JASCO 3-Way Smart Switches. There are also 4-way (3 locations), 5-way (4 locations) and even 6-way (5 locations) or more. Most modern homes have rocker switches, and this is among the first upgrades done by DIYer’s.Ī 3-way switch is a setup where a load is controlled from 2 locations. Rocker: (also called a paddle switch) Type of switch with a wider surface than the toggle. They don’t match standard switches exactly in either look OR resting position. NOTE: Smart Toggles do not have an “up” and “down.” The switch itself is pressed up or down, but will return to a neutral position. Toggle: Type of switch that sort-of looks like an older ‘standard’ switch, and will fit toggle face plates. See What to Know Before Changing Your Wall Switch for more on Neutrals.
When installing a Smart Switch, a neutral is required. Neutral: The return route of electricity. Line: The source of the electricity from the electric box/fuse box. Load: The light, fixture, or other item you want to turn on/off/dim. An Add-on switch CANNOT be used by itself as a Primary switch and is only used with a Primary. The device used in Single pole applications is the Primary - same device.Īdd-on switch: In a 3-way installation, the Add-on switch gives an alternate switch location. Primary switch: In a 3-way installation, the Primary switch contains the Z-Wave chip. Also called upstairs/downstairs switches in some regions. Single pole: Your ‘average’ switch- the light is controlled from one location.ģ-way: When the light is controlled from two locations.