Take a closer look at a 3 way switch wiring diagram.
Three way light switch schematic.
This 3 way light switch diagram shows connections when the power comes into the first switch on to the second switch and then on to two or more lights switched by the 3 way circuit.
With a pair of 3 way switches either can make or break the connection that completes the circuit to the light.
No longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes 3 way switch wiring diagram light fixture between switchesline voltage enters the first 3 way switch outlet box light fixture is located between switch boxes no longer allowed after 2011 nec if no neutral wire in switch boxes.
Wiring a 3 way light switch.
Pick the diagram that is most like the scenario you are in and see if you can wire your switch.
Two very old three way switches are depicted in the photo above.
Two very old three way switches.
So what you should see if you have correct 3 wire electrical cable romex is a black power white neutral and now a 3rd red wire.
Interested in a 4 way switch wiring diagram.
This might seem intimidating but it does not have to be.
Below is a simple 3 way schematic that can be applied to all three way electrical light switch connections.
3 way switch schematic wiring diagram.
With these diagrams below it will take the guess work out of wiring.
3 way switch wiring diagram line to light fixtureline voltage enters the light fixture outlet box.
This is only a wiring schematic and not the actual wiring method used for 3 way switch installations.