3 Way Switch Troubleshooting

[@rcronin1]

Thanks! This motivated me to fix the main kitchen light in my house that was incorrectly wired since I got this house 10 yrs ago.

[@askthebuilder]

Glad I could help! Many many thanks for the most GENEROUS donation. I reinvest all of this revenue into the channel to make more videos FASTER for you.

[@OrionCorsari]

This guy is the BEST! He not only nailed the circuit problem for me - but he was right on target with my domestic situation. Thank you and thank you again!

[@thomasmoline1174]

Weeks without my stairwell light 3-way switch not working was resolved by following this video. 1, 2, 3 musical chairs performed twice did the trick! Thanks, Tim, and meaning it by sending you a $4.99 gratuity.

[@askthebuilder]

Congrats!!! It's a great feeling to fix things like this on your own! Success breeds greater success!

[@williammcelhaney1069]

My wife and I just purchased our first home. After a couple nights I started to notice that some of the light switches seemed off. They only worked if you put in the right cheat code. I needed to to have X switch on and then switches Y and Z would then work properly. Thanks for the video. You have just earned another subscriber.

[@belmontcortes6037]

That is exactly where I am with my switches. However the "Ask the Builder" procedure did not work for me. I tried on both 3-way switches but I am right back where I stared. After the last step which was supposed to fix it, I got a total failure where nothing worked. So, I am back where I started. Lucky for me I took plenty of pictures before starting.

[@toddglennbarrow]

After a couple of months of my wife nagging me to fix my 3 way switches, I finally did it. Watched a couple other videos that didn't help. This one did it for me. I had to rotate twice. I doubted it would work after trying and failing so many times before that, so I was pleasantly surprised that it worked. Thank you!

[@ChiII_BiII]

I watched a bunch of other videos on this topic and never quite understood. This made it so that even I can understand! Took 10 minutes of work and now my switch works after living with it for over a year. Thank you!

[@askthebuilder]

Congrats, Billy! Next up I'll be having you switch out a bad circuit breaker! Be SURE to subscribe to my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@GrowingForever]

Great info, thanks!😊

[@askthebuilder]

Glad I could help. Have you signed up for my newsletter? A deal is a deal!!! askthebuilder.com/newsletter

[@MattSicignano]

Brilliant! I don't want to know how a 3 way switch works, or have to take out both switches, or use a continuity tester or a multimeter. This is the easiest way to fix this problem and it's genius. After I miswired 2 separate switches (because the terminals were confusingly marked on the old ones), and playing with different configurations for an hour, 15 minutes after watching this video had both switches working perfectly. Great video, and fantastic tip!

[@askthebuilder]

Glad to help. The vision for the video came in a dream five years ago. Think of what I saved you from calling in an electrician. If you want to help support my efforts, consider clicking the *Thanks* text link under the video.

[@rickjans664]

Good information if you can keep , a bit confusing i would need to take notes , even faster in my case just replace two switches in question for the price it's worth it being the switches are at least 55 years old

[@asearch]

Banged my head against the wall for about a half an hour trying to figure why a 3 way switch I installed wasn't working properly. A quick Google search landed me here...fixed in less than a minute. A fair deal indeed...I just signed up for your newsletter as requested. Thank you my friend!

[@JuanRamirez-su3tf]

I called 2, well 3 electrician friends, o e didn't answer. Number two hadn't practiced for yrs and couldn't remember. The 3rd said it was going to be almost impossible without a meter. I watched your video and got it and the 2nd try. thank you so much for such an easy fix and a very clear explanation on how to do it. I saw plenty of videos but I couldn't figure it out till I came across yours. Thanks again!

[@askthebuilder]

Juan, you're most welcome! Do me a favor and spread the word far and wide about my www.AsktheBuilder.com website. That's how you can repay me. Thanks in advance!

[@maryloulou370]

Love this video!!! No voltmeter needed , no voltage testing needed and no night schooling for a week. All is needed is a 1 cent pc of blue tape. (meets my budget and schedule perfectly:) Great video!

[@askthebuilder]

You're welcome! How much did I save you? Check out the *THANKS* text link under the video and reciprocate. Thanks in advance!

[@Mattyew]

there's a reason all the comments are positive undearneath. this process works. thanks man!! By the way, I bought a house built in the early 20th century and all the wires were very stiff, thick and all black!! Made it extra tricky feeling confident about which one I was labelling what, but this method gave me confidence. I drew out the wiring on paper as you described their arrangements and got it on the second try!

[@askthebuilder]

Yep. It's like playing musical chairs. Congrats on your victory and building your confidence.

[@stefzarragoitia2355]

For more than a YEAR my lights didn’t work. Was about to give up and call an electrician, but was too embarrassed. I never would’ve guessed I could fix it so quickly. THANK YOU!!

[@askthebuilder]

You're most welcome. If you really want to thank me, please consider clicking the *THANKS* text link under the video. Look at what Rebecca did!

[@soekawas]

Whew, thank you! Wife just unlocked the front door! Subscribed!

[@askthebuilder]

BWAHAHAHAHAHA I know that feeling!

[@WendyGolski]

Thank you. Really. I used this and your 4 way switch video to solve what was becoming a massive problem with 50 year old house wiring. Your calm and simple explanation gave me confidence to keep going. I'm subscribed.

[@Seemedrawful]

Man! Fixed a 3 way switch I tried to figure out with diagrams and other videos in about 60 seconds - first try! Thanks!

[@askthebuilder]

You're welcome. Perhaps you can do what Rebecca Cronin did. Did you see her pinned comment? How much did I save you from having an electrician stop by? Click the *THANKS* text link under the video please.

[@its.us.chrisandgretel]

Thank you sir. I was perplexed for 2 weeks with the 3 way switch. After watching your video and using your technique I got it to work properly in 5 minutes. Now I have a happy wife again!

[@askthebuilder]

Happy wife, happy life!

[@tenncutt]

You win! Less than 90 seconds. Fixed. Subscribed. Signed up for newsletter. Thanks Tim. I'm now a 3 way switch specialist!

[@askthebuilder]

Welcome aboard!

[@tombaron8515]

Deal’s a deal. Tried your 3-way switch troubleshooting tip. Got it fixed the first time. Thanks! I’m a subscriber.

[@scottzeezee4343]

Excellent! It worked. Thank you for providing a video that is so easy to understand and is easy to follow. I suffered with an improperly working 3-way light switch for ten years and I’m guessing that prior owners dealt with it for 50 years. My only suggestion is that if someone doesn’t want to get out the tape and label the wires, you’re really just moving them counter-clockwise one position each time. With only three wires that’s easy to keep track of without tape labels.

[@askthebuilder]

Of course it worked... I showed it working in the video, silly! :-) How about clicking the *THANKS* text link to help return the favor?

[@ralphb.3802]

Thanks, it work for me. Your video had a logical approach to fixing the problem After putting on an addition on the house 30 years ago , the 3 way switch stopped working in the kitchen. The switches were only about 10 feet apart and we lived with the inconvenience with the notion of getting it fixed some day. It was annoying walking across the kitchen in the dark to turn on the light at the opposite switch. Seemed like you always had to go across the room to turn on the light.. After watching this video I fixed the problem on the first try.

[@askthebuilder]

Get unlimited tips each week when you subscribe to my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@davidbynoe1083]

I think the introduction is very funny my wife is going to be gone for a week I got plenty of time thank you so much you're the man.

[@askthebuilder]

If you're *REALLY thankful* you'll click the THANKS text link under the video and do the right thing.

[@tommyjwallace]

I was skeptical, but this is the perfect solution to troubleshooting a 3-way switch! Thank you sir.

[@askthebuilder]

Tommy, you're welcome. If you *REALLY* want to say "thanks", click that THANKS button under the video right next to CLIP.

[@DHodges187]

I had an entire wiring problem fixed after 2 days Then the 3 way didnt work I HATE THIS HOUSE!!!! BUT THanks to your simple esay to follow instructions ITS fixed and well before Mama Gets home LOL! BRAVO sir.

[@askthebuilder]

When Mama ain't happy, ain't NOBODY happy.

[@borys444]

Don’t have any issues with my switches but I gave u a like just cause u asked. Good job!!

[@datsuntoyy]

So I did the 3 way rotation like you said, didn't work. Did the 3 way rotation on the other switch, didn't work. Bought 2 new switches, 3 way spec grade, didn't work. Did the wire rotations again on both switches, didn't work. Both switches have to be on for the light to work. Any suggestions now? Odd thing is, I've been doing residential wiring repairs for years and I was an HVAC tech. I've installed dozens of 3 way, never have I had an issue with any of my wiring. Not even when I replaced the GFCI in the bathroom with it's connected outlets in the other two bathrooms, laundry room and front porch. I've even worked with 440v 3 phase, never an issue (that's a scary voltage to work with). Which begs a side question, why would anybody wire 3 bathrooms, laundry room and front porch on the same circuit! God forbid two people want to use hair dryers at the same time. SOP for home wiring. I guess they want to save $30 for another GFCI outlet. All this started when I tried to install a Zwave like i've done on a many of my other switches and outlets.

[@askthebuilder]

You must not have listened to the first 40 seconds. This video is for people that take apart ONE switch in a 3-way switch working setup that worked fine before the work started. As soon as you take apart BOTH switches, this method will not work. Go watch my ORIGINAL 3 Way Switch video. If yo still need help, I do phone coaching all day long: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@datsuntoyy]

@@askthebuilder I only went to the second switch after rotating the wires didn't work on the first one and after replacing the first one. After this video I found another that had me ohm check switches and continutity check all the wiring. After a ground up rewire, I'm back in buisiness. Thankyou

[@elizabethgray3225]

Thank you, THANK YOU for an easy to follow, no-fuss 3 way switch installation video! I watched several before coming across yours and every one of them features several meters that were confusing and, let's face it, I'm only installing ONE switch so do I really need to spend $200 on 3 different voltage testers? NO! Label the wires and test them on the switch methodically to find the right configuration and guess what? IT WORKS PERFECTLY! Hooray for you and your videos! I have subscribed and will be watching all your posted videos for tips and tricks like this one.

[@askthebuilder]

So glad to have helped you figure this out. Excellent! If this video HELPED you save time and money, can you return the favor and buy me a mocha-chip ice cream cone? shop.askthebuilder.com/tims-tip-jar/

[@michaelbaskinmichael9862]

Never had a neutral in box he used it for a traveler

[@TrappedQue]

I love your sense of humor. This video is very useful.

[@askthebuilder]

Glad you like it. Think about clicking the *Thanks* text link under the video to support the channel.

[@crustymilk1]

At first, thought this was a parody vid… I was desperate, so followed the instructions. Damn, that was the answer to my problem! Thank you! Subscribed.

[@askthebuilder]

No parody. The Divine inspiration for this video came in the middle of the night. Thank God as He was the one that cut through all the insanity you see in all the other videos done by electricians. Who wants to use a scary voltage tester?

[@kevinoverholtzer3126]

watched most of the video Thanks this is a great idea

[@counciousstream]

Love the video, love the star (forgot your name), and love the direct approach. Unfortunately things didn't work out as simply and we needed to watch a different video to figure it out. Our issue was that the other switch had the load wire and it was hooked up incorrectly. So we had to figure the other switch out first. The deal still stands though. I'm subscribed.

[@askthebuilder]

TNX. Remember at the start of the video this is for situations where the switches worked FINE before you started. And you decided to switch out ONE of the two and goofed up the wires. If you take BOTH switches out of a good circuit then this method will not work. That's why the title is switch *singular* not plural.

[@counciousstream]

@@askthebuilder yes I made the mistake of wiring the first replacement switch incorrectly. Then I thought that the other switch was bad so I replaced that one and probably did that one wrong as well. As it turns out the second switch was the feed from the breaker panel and was the one that failed. Hey it only took a year until I got around to fixing it! I should have watched your video when I first encountered the problem!

[@janetbradley9405]

Haha, I'm here because my signifigant other goofed up the wires. He's at the store and I'm fixing it lol!

[@britnyank9002]

This is hilarious....unless it led to a divorce.

[@askthebuilder]

WOOT! Good for you, Janet! Did you subscribe to my FREE newsletter at: www.AsktheBuilder.com?

[@sajidmirza5092]

Can you come round and fix mine please?🤭

[@gunbarinvestments4616]

OMG...I did what you said and it worked the 1st time I tried the 321 combo. Thank you!

[@askthebuilder]

Congratulations! I was inspired by a vision from God to create this video.

[@JohnBrown-ks8bn]

I go back to this video every single time !!!!

[@askthebuilder]

You must have lots of 3-way switches or a short memory. ;-)

[@jhnadler_author]

Thank you for this simple video. I swapped a regular 3-way for a 3-way dimmer and couldn't get it to work right (both switches had to be in one position for light - no good) even though I'd followed the directions. You're no-nonsense trouble-shoot method saved me an hour of aggravation.

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it helped. Did you hold up to your part of the bargain? That's the $1M question!

[@swedacashregisters]

yea that is how mine is i did just as he said and they work but if i am upstairs and shut off and go down it wont turn on its massivly confusing

[@dreamer98513]

pull off bad 3 way switch before marking the wires duh, tried a few things but your video solved it. First configuration of 1, 2, 3 happen to work. Thanks

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it helped. Think what an electrician would have charged. Consider returning the favor by clicking the *Thanks* text link under the video to support the channel.

[@vlushairlines]

gave me the confidence i needed to do “musical chairs”. This did trick, thanks!

[@askthebuilder]

Excellent! Did you hold up to the bargain? Have you subscribed to my newsletter? You get a FREE eBook when you do - and 7 other FREE files! go.askthebuilder.com/diglibfreeyoutube

[@spmince]

Good video. I assume you have one on how to test to find which switch is bad if that’s the case. If not it would be a good one to do.

[@askthebuilder]

Thanks for your praise! There is no need for the video you suggest. Something tells me you didn't listen closely to the first 40 seconds of the video. Go back and listen again with your critical-thinking skills set to HIGH.

[@MattJones-s6n]

Thanks! Put in a new three way switch and nothing worked. I had both three way switches out checking for voltage. Still no luck. Watched the video, moved wires, now everything works!!

[@bobbystanley8580]

Okay sir. I had a friend with a switch that could only be turned on from the last switch to be turned off. Based on the colors I thought it would have been correct but it didn’t. I did the rotation and bam.! It now works correctly!!! Thank you so very much!!!!!

[@askthebuilder]

Of course it would work... Did you expect otherwise? :-)

[@2bz2c]

Third time's the charm. I thought I knew what I was doing until I didn't. Thanks for this.

[@LOL-dk6xi]

Holy xxxx you sir just saved my day. I just installed 4 new switches and of cuz I did the rookie mistake. My light turns on when one of the switches have to be in “on” position. I spent hours trying to trouble shoot and then tried your method on one of the switches. Boom. Fixed it!! Thank you again hope you stay healthy and have a good day

[@ryanhowe483]

So - we bought our home from someone who "flipped" it, and as we have been working on it we continue to discover VERY creative wiring. We have been fixing what is in our scope and partnering with an electrician where appropriate. This video was super helpful, and a very straight forward way to diagnose/fix the issue!

[@askthebuilder]

Glad I was able to help. I've got over 650 videos here on KZbin. always type in "tim carter" after your search term to see if I have one that will solve your next problem.

[@HollyDayYay]

Thank you so much!!! I was very nervous to move the black power wire. It worked!!!

[@askthebuilder]

Congrats on your success! I knew it would work all along...

[@TR-vh1fi]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video.

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it was helpful! If this helped you, maybe you can buy me a mocha chip ice cream cone, that seems like the right thing to do: shop.askthebuilder.com/tims-tip-jar/

[@robincarpenter8622]

Thank you for this video. I have a "this old house". Where wiring is a nightmare to trace. Tagging them made it easier

[@askthebuilder]

Robin, you're welcome. Did you see what @rcronin1 did? The pinned comment? She clicked the *Thanks* text link under the video. Merry Christmas!

[@tomg1247]

I replaced both with new styles and didn't realize I had a problem until I had the second one installed. I tried the 1-2-3 move in the first one I installed and ended up where I started with the same problem. I went on to the second switch and with the first 1-2-3 move it worked correctly! I could have skipped the first one if I'd had the confidence that I'd adequately checked it before doing the second one, but I wasn't sure I'd tested it other than the light coming on when I flipped it. The problem (as one or two others have noted) was switch 2 had to be in one setting for the other switch to toggle the light on and off.

[@askthebuilder]

Success breeds success.

[@davidc4162]

I DIED LAUGHING at your intro. Thank you for that--I needed that. First pair I did worked first try, second pair---not so much!!

[@askthebuilder]

One has to inject some humor from time to time. The trouble is, some don't feel the intro is funny!

[@gar2161978]

Hi Tim, been a newsletter subscriber for a few years now, and this is one of your best videos yet! Keep it up and thanks!!

[@askthebuilder]

TNX. I decided to have some fun with this one. Kathy wasn't happy about doing the voice cameo!

[@ronking5787]

It worked, after untold time troubleshooting and then this guys video appeared.

[@askthebuilder]

Congratulations!!! :-) It's caveman simple when you realize the two travelers can be on either of the other two screws. If I saved you lots of hassle, maybe you can buy me a mocha chip ice cream cone! shop.askthebuilder.com/tims-tip-jar/

[@ndunwoody]

I bought a 24 year old house about 8month ago. All the switches and outlets were that old almond color and I'm changing them all to a more modern white color. I have a 3 way switch but it's slightly different than the old one. I tried to memorize what wire went where but somehow I got confused and forgot. I was worried about putting the wrong wire in the wrong place. I thought maybe something would blow up or catch fire if I did it wrong. But what I took from your video is nothing bad will happen if I have it wired wrong. It just won't work. Thanks so much for relieving that stress.

[@askthebuilder]

I bought my first old house in 1975. For unlimited free tips each week subscribe to my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@jans.6701]

This is the BEST! Very easy to follow and it works!

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it helped! Did you check out the *THANKS* text link under the video? Imagine how much money I saved you from giving to an electrician!!!

[@scottwilcox1934]

Thanks. I was replacing old switches that I will be sending to the Smithsonian. Probably this 4 way was wired about 1929. Everything looks ok but I could not identify the wires. Colors faded. Your instruction eventfully worked.

[@askthebuilder]

Excellent! Why of course my instructions would work! I'm a jeanyus. :-)

[@Qkat]

Thank you! Your video helped me work through the problem and I could not be more pleased!

[@askthebuilder]

Katherine, excellent! I love hearing success stories. How much do you think you would have paid an electrician? How about buying me a couple of beers to thank me? See that *THANKS* text link under the video above? Click it please!

[@Qkat]

@@askthebuilder I clicked that link and bought you a couple of beers. Not sure about what an electrician would have cost me for this issue, probably close to $200.00 I'm guessing. Thank you again.

[@magncity1817]

Would it be right to say that the traveler screws on the switch are always across from each other on the switch; and the hot screw is always alone on the switch (black)? The reason I ask is when asked to do what this video is about in an older house there really wasn’t a ‘black’ screw; maybe it just lost its’ color over the years.

[@askthebuilder]

Maybe.

[@thomasmoline1174]

Thanks!

[@askthebuilder]

Thomas, MANY THANKS for your nice tip!!! Glad I was able to help.

[@martyjewell5683]

Interesting video, thanks. I have a 3 way table lamp. The socket sometimes pops when it's turned on. The light doesn't blink, just makes a pop sound but only at the low (first) click and not every time. All 3 light levels work but that dang popping, scares the missus. What's up??

[@askthebuilder]

Poor contact in the socket.

[@TechRevivalist]

Thanks for this! Watched 15 of these and none helped me… I even asked Reddit! Say hi to your new subscriber

[@askthebuilder]

Thanks for the sub! Hello! Be sure to share the goodness of www.AsktheBuilder.com and this channel on Reddit. TNX as we say in Morse.

[@GraphiteSamurai]

I'm trying to replace a 3 rocker switch for my bathroom vent which has a heater and a light . I connected everything and the fan and heat only work when the light switch is on. assuming this technique will work as well. I tried being a big superhero like Tim said, I goofed up just like Tim said. Thx Tim for shaming me into learning.

[@askthebuilder]

My kids call me Dr. Shame. For unlimited free tips each week subscribe to my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@kendotson8475]

Video is very well scripted and performed clearly on concise. I did follow your "musical chair" technique. I didn't work; I presumed it wouldn't work because my wiring at the switch doesn't contain two travelers and a common. The wiring I have is Two common (hot) and one traveler (neutral). As I mentioned, I followed the musical chair process without success. The total layout is two each three way switches and two outlets. The configuration previously worked as either switch could control the top receptacle of both outlets simultaneously. What am I doing wrong?

[@askthebuilder]

I've got news for you. If you have THREE WIRES there and it worked BEFORE you messed with it, then my method in the video WILL work. Read all the positive SUCCESS comments here.

[@brennongarcia4964]

Thank You!! Our house had outdated switches and this one switch completely dumbfounded me. You’re a life saver!

[@askthebuilder]

Congrats on your success! Next step is for you to wire your next new home. You've GOT THIS!

[@thirupparans7749]

Thank you Tim for showing the easy way. Subscribed to your newsletter and KZbin channel. Excellent guide for all the husbands out there.

[@askthebuilder]

TNX for subscribing to my newsletter. Let me know how you like it.

[@rossr6616]

Perfecto! Was worried because on one end I have a 3-Way Dimmer with unclear lead layout...Fortunately your technique saved my butt, thank you!

[@askthebuilder]

To get unlimited free tips each week like this, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@Aeromousikos]

You saved the day and ended my frustration! Thanks!

[@askthebuilder]

Glad I could help! You should subscribe to my newsletter for FREE tips every two weeks. askthebuilder.com/newsletter/

[@proclaimer2u]

Thank you! I was searching other videos just to get confused, and needing to purchase what electricians use just to use it once. Thank you for this system that is fool proof and works and is simple to follow. Great video!

[@adamzbar2222]

Just subscribed as it resolved the concern on my first attempt. Thank you again.

[@victormadera2400]

No need to look any further, couldnt of explained it any better. Thanks for the trick👍🏼😁

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it helped you. I had a vision in the middle of the night to create this video. All the other ones are far too complicated.

[@TheLatinPoet]

I've been rewiring a major portion of the electrical in this 1920 home we moved into. When we moved in, I taped the front of the few outlets that had a reverse neutral and hot. This week I took apart and traced 5 outlets, checked for correct wiring, replaced cracked outlets and put everything back together. When I tested the outlets they all still read reverse neutral and hot. There are LOTS of other things on this living room circuit: living room lights, closet light, upstairs outlets in three bedrooms, outside lights, AND all the basement lights on a three-way switch. I opened the 3-way switch at the top of the basement stairs. I disconnected one of the traveler wires after discovering that flipping the switch on the far-side basement door to the outside got rid of the reverse neutral and hot on all of the circuits. So now I can only turn on/off the basement lights from the switch at the top of the basement stairs; one wire is still disconnected. There is a two wire w/ground AND a 3-wire w/ground NM cable going to the far 3-way switch. I hope to trouble-shoot it this weekend. Have you ever run across this problem before?

[@askthebuilder]

Please watch my other 3 Way Switch video so you completely understand how the circuit works: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnXcp5aDZcyWjNU To make this super easy, all you must do is locate the HOT wire that's in one of the two switch boxes. After that, it's a piece of cake. If you STILL NEED HELP after that, I can call you on the phone. Much cheaper than having an electrician come out: shop.askthebuilder.com/products/15-Minute-Phone-Conversation-with-Tim.html

[@bassinbillRC5300]

I have a garage door and indoor lighting on the same circuit. Power is out to this circuit. Electrical panel downstairs shows no circuits tripped or in the center position. Interior Ceiling fan wall switch, outdoor porch light wall switch and garage door power outlet are all without power. Which wall switch do I check first?

[@askthebuilder]

Please watch the first 45 seconds of the video again and LISTEN CLOSELY to what I say. Then watch my ORIGINAL 3 Way Switch video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnXcp5aDZcyWjNU

[@maryloulou370]

Worked like a charm! Worked 1st try! Thank you!

[@askthebuilder]

Great! Did you think about clicking the *THANKS* text link under the video to help me make more videos faster?

[@davejoson1100]

Just read the old switch for the common engraved on the connector before disconnecting any wire. On the new switch connect that common wire to the common connector black (screw) the other 2 wires can go to the other 2 terminals (not the ground terminal).

[@askthebuilder]

If you follow my instructions, the new switch will work.

[@cstrachan66]

Thank you for your help. 3rd time was the charm!!

[@nirmal6632]

Long story short this video solved my issue within minutes. Thank you very much!!!

[@askthebuilder]

Glad it helped! Did you hold up your end of the bargain??????? Did you SUBSCRIBE like you promised you would - to my www.AsktheBuilder.com newsletter! It's FREE.

[@nirmal6632]

@@askthebuilder Yes sir. To the newsletter and KZbin 😎

[@Delta4N6]

Nice video! I haven’t tried it yet but would this method work if the wiring is such that the power is coming from the fixture?

[@askthebuilder]

Yes it will

[@MrKevin010]

Thank you sir. After trying this (I think I rotated the wires three times) It Finally struck me that HA, Maybe it's the other switch. Simple continuity test showed me that indeed it was bad. Moral: Make sure the switch is the bad one.

[@askthebuilder]

You had a 50-50 chance when you started. Nearly the same odds of winning at the $50 blackjack table at the Belagio.

[@myb28]

ok.. I'm working on a 3 way switch, 1 at the top the stairs, 1 at the bottom.. Both switches have been removed. All I have is three wires hanging out of each box. Do I just connect the 3 wires on any of the 3 screw connects on one switch and then use your 'method' at the other other end??

[@askthebuilder]

No. You completely goofed up. Watch my original 3 Way Switch video now. If you still can't figure it out, then I can solve your problem over the phone in minutes: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@shawnwilliams9813]

Hi Tim. I only have a three wires ( black, white, and copper colored). How do it connect those to a three way switch since I don’t have a red wire?

[@askthebuilder]

Please do what I say in the video. Nothing about this is hard.

[@EdLee-xj3jc]

For decorating purposes, I was trying to change the color of a 3-way switch working in conjunction with an older Leviton dimmer. It was a great video, very simple explanation and steps without having to think of what is actually going on. However,............in the end, the setup did not work with all the wiring/terminal termination configurations described. The dimmer works, but the 3-way switch only shuts off the light, but does not turn it on. It will turn on and off the light only if the dimmer is on. I tested the 3-way switch separately using a multimeter checking for continuity between the common terminal and the traveler terminals with the switch in each position. The switch appears to be fine. Do you have any thoughts on why I can't get the switch to work properly? Many thanks for your great video.

[@askthebuilder]

Sounds like it's time for a consult call. Far too much for me to type. shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@IvorThomas]

I had replaced both switches and had a combo of knob & tube and romex so I was dreading getting my 3 way working properly again. GF was threatening to spend $$$$ on an electrician. Luckily none seemed interested and that motivated me. The above 'rotation' hack worked.

[@askthebuilder]

Ivor, I'm happy it worked. If you want me to make more videos like this faster, consider clicking the *THANKS* text link under the video.

[@CameronSevyn]

I have an issue where the switch (#2) is only working if the other one (#1) is turned ON. Should I be troubleshooting on the switch (#1) that has to be ON for the other one (#2) to work? Or trouble shoot the one (#1) that is dependent on the other switch (#2)?

[@askthebuilder]

Simple. Watch my original 3 Way Switch video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnXcp5aDZcyWjNU Then watch this one again. If you need more help, I do phone coaching: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@LibbyCastro-w9i]

Just saved me a lot of heartache. Speaking of heartache, know anything about open heart surgery?

[@askthebuilder]

Good! I do know about open-heart surgery. I know it's not a DIY endeavor.

[@travelingbySEA]

Thanks so much! This helped save me from a huge headache and hiring an electrician

[@askthebuilder]

That's why I made the video. To get unlimited free tips each week like this, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@darenwhitaker]

Stumbled across this video and thought I’d try and fix our second kitchen switch that hasn’t worked since we moved in 10 years ago. Unfortunately, this method didn't resolve our issue. Is there a chance that something’s wrong at the 1st switch in the run? Two of the iterations allowed the end run switch to turn off and on the light as long as the 1st switch was in the on position, but having the 1st switch in the off position, none of the iterations allowed the 2nd switch to turn on the light. Any ideas??

[@askthebuilder]

Yes. My idea is for you to jump on the phone with me so I can fix it for you: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@xraytech1able]

I changed out my bathroom light switch using your video. I thought things were all in order as light now works. But I later found when the bathroom light is on, the other outlets on that circuit don't work until I turn my light off. What did I do wrong and how do I fix this mess?

[@askthebuilder]

Far far too much to type. You need one of my consult calls. Far cheaper than an electrician. shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@raymondcomar2139]

Good morning I installed a 3-way dimmer switch from a 3-way single pole switch now the lights dim except for two on both dining room and kitchen I replaced both sets in the same a box receptacle box could it be I have to check the light bulbs I believe your halogen or LED

[@raymondcomar2139]

On a dimmer switch itself there's a lever high and low I turn it down low until the lights almost went out and flickers and then I turned it back on when they stop flickering I'm not sure if that's the problem your help would be appreciated

[@askthebuilder]

Read the column about this on my www.AsktheBuilder.com website. Always go there and use the Search Engine when you have a problem. There are THOUSANDS of columns there about every home improvement project known to man or woman.

[@alejandroescorriola789]

HI Tim i switched out both switches and now both are messed up, how do i start fixing one to then fix the other? great content on your channel, i really enjoy it, thank you so much!!!

[@askthebuilder]

Easy. Go watch my original 3 Way Switch video. If you need phone help, I offer it: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@nathwhit3980]

Dunno how, but it worked!!! Thanks so much! Third time did the trick!

[@askthebuilder]

Of course, it worked. I proved it in the video above. Nothing magical at all about it. If you REALLY get stuck in the future, I offer phone consulting: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@ashwani2k]

I was trying to replace the old 3way switch with the smart switch. So I removed the switches from both the boxes to see the line. But box1 has all 3 wires as hot and box2 has 2 wires hot. How is this possible? Can you please have a diagram of this setup and explain it? Is it possible to install the smart 3way switch here? Thanks in Advance.

[@askthebuilder]

I drew these diagrams 25 years ago. Still are relevant: www.askthebuilder.com/3-way-4-way-switch-wiring-diagram/

[@ManhatanProj3ct]

In a 2-switch 1-light setup, what's the easiest way to identify which switch is the problem?

[@askthebuilder]

Simple. WATCH my first 3-Way Switch video so you understand the wiring: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnXcp5aDZcyWjNU

[@pam9413]

I replace my three way switch yesterday and it worked fine, got up this morning and it didn't work, could the problem be someplace else, I switched it because the light would no longer turn on, but it could be the other switch??

[@askthebuilder]

Read my 3-way switch columns on my www.AsktheBuilder.com website. To get unlimited free tips each week like this, be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter at www.AsktheBuilder.com

[@JamesTorrey]

2:00 what if my black screw is centered on one side and the gold ones are in the other side?

[@JamesTorrey]

Just tried this anyway, didn't work

[@askthebuilder]

Well, it's possible the switch is bad. Keep trying.

[@gtjmail]

This worked great! Thank you, Tim!!! I actually had 3 switches controlling one set of lights (one of them a 4 way). I used this trick for the one 3 way switch that wasn't working properly and it worked like a charm. Saved me a ton of time!

[@Mrcastleskeep]

Months later, I found that every third switch going from one to the other doesn't turn it off. Crazy random. I don't know if the wiring is wrong or if one of the switches is bad.

[@charlottemetcalfe]

I replaced my dimmer with an LED 3 way dimmer switch in order to put in LED bulbs, but then the second switch was dead and would not turn the lights on or off. I tried the 1-2-3 wire trick to no avail. I put back the old dimmer and now both switches works fine again. Is there any issues with LED 3 way switches?

[@askthebuilder]

Well, I can only think of two things: The switch is bad - you didn't wire it up correctly.

[@charlottemetcalfe]

@@askthebuilder Eureka! Replacing both old switches did the trick. For some odd reason, the old leviton 3 way switches worked together, but if you added a new switch, the remaining old one would not cooperate.

[@mrmischievous]

I need a bit more help than this - I replaced a few single pole and 3-way switches and I was meticulous about putting wires in the same configuration, however none of the lights work on the entire circuit now :( do you have any other videos that show how to troubleshoot?

[@askthebuilder]

Need more help? That's why I developed this product> Far cheaper than an electrician: shop.askthebuilder.com/15-minute-phone-or-video-conversation-with-tim/

[@markpinera415]

It worked I had to re watch and actually listen to what your saying. 2nd trouble shooting worked! Thank you!! 👏

[@askthebuilder]

Of course it worked. Why would you ever think it wouldn't? :-)

[@Gebo1955]

Finally a simple way to get it right that works...thank you

[@askthebuilder]

You're welcome!

[@jimm2031]

Tim,i have an overhead light and a wall sconce controlled by 2 3 way switches. one at top of stairs, one at bottom. suddenly lights didnt work. replaced bulbs with known good ones,still nothing. replaced 3 way switches one at a time, still nothing. please help.

[@askthebuilder]

Watch my original 3 Way Switch video here. If you still are in a bind, I do phone coaching. Far cheaper than having an electrician come out. shop.askthebuilder.com/consult-tim/

[@uptoolate2793]

Ok, a deal is a deal. Subscribed. Besides, I need more common sense in my life w/o complicating things. I was replacing a broken 3 way dimmer with a new 3 way dimmer that will also accommodate LED. The old dimmer had color coded pig tales. The new one has terminals. Thus I had no idea which wire was which so I guessed. It only semi-worked. Then I went hunting for this video after enduring all sorts of engineer overthink. Hey, I'm doing this once every 15 years. I don't need a bunch of electricial testing equipment collecting dust for 15 years that I won't be able to find next time I'm in need. Done in 10 minutes after watching the juicy bits 3 times til I had it down! Thank you!!

[@askthebuilder]

TNX. I think you'll love my quirky newsletter. Let me know.

[@conductorbillhatrick2704]

Thanks Tim ... as you said ... "I guarantee it!" ... but why does it always have to be the third try?!? Absolutely appreciate the help!

[@askthebuilder]

You're most welcome Bill. You might like this story. Check out the photo: www.askthebuilder.com/red-dragon-tattoo-tim-carter/