How To Wire A 3-Way Light Switch - 3 Way Switch Explained (2 EASY & SIMPLE Methods)

In this video I show you how to wire a 3-way light switch using 2 easy and simple methods I use when wiring a house. The 3 way switch is explained while I show you how to wire a 3 way switch. The 3 way switch explanation is done using 12/2 and 12/3 wire. A 3 way switch wiring diagram is very helpful when wiring a 3 way light switch. Electrical is very dangerous. This video is for entertainment purposes ONLY!
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Timestamps
Intro 00:00
Safety first: 00:19
How to wire a 3 way switch (Method 1) 00:45
How to wire a 3 way switch (Method 2) 11:36
Outro 19:49
Disclaimer: This video is all based on my personal opinion and is for entertainment purposes ONLY. I am not a financial advisor, CPA, attorney, tax advisor, electrician, plumber, housing contractor, designer, or any type of profession to give advice. I am just a consumer sharing my experiences and research. If you do need knowledge for those types of things, I will advise you to seek help for those professionals.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Team! No shave November is keeping me warm 😃. Hope your projects are going well! Let me know in the comment section below what you are currently working on. I placed timestamps below 👇 to help you navigate this video. Safety first: 00:19 How to wire a 3 way switch (Method 1) 00:45 How to wire a 3 way switch (Method 2) 11:36 Outro 19:49

[@frankhannan2717]

Free nhi hi

[@coreypj]

Method 2 is what I have to use but I have to add constant power for a outside light on second switch how to wire

[@gabrieldiaz4555]

My friend how would I wire a dimmer to the (second method) or will it not work

[@kenduke4606]

Two switches controlling one light. isn't that a two way switching?

[@williamcooper9753]

Thanks for explaining the second method. I opened up my second box, saw only one cable, and figured I was sunk. Most other guys don’t explain the second method.

[@christiansalazar2]

You’re not even an electrician but you explain everything way better and make it easier to understand than these electrician KZbinrs . Good work.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I have learned the simpler the better and making KZbin videos for people to follow. Thanks a lot for watching!

[@Kcperkins]

But he is doing things wrong. You don’t run 12awg to switches and lights. Don’t get me wrong, you can, but it’s ignorant.

[@Fahmifcs]

@@KcperkinsI think it should be 14awg

[@eddiereacts2u71]

@@TheExcellentLaborerlegend has it the excellent laborer came out the womb with a pair of linesman’s pliers hahhaa awesome video sir keep up great work electrical is definitely my weak spot so I KZbin to reference something’s just found your channel and subbed very clear instructions man 🤙🏽🤙🏽💯

[@VkIex]

@@Kcperkinswhy is it ignorant? i work for a company and we only use 14awg on certain roughs for certain developers, they mostly have us use 12awg for almost everything

[@09befit]

Your videos are great. You explain much better than most of the electricians on KZbin. Thanks to your videos, I just wired an entire new house myself and passed inspection. My success is yours as well. You are a truly great teacher!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Congratulations on your success! I like to put as much information in my videos as I can reasonably. I’m thankful for viewers like you that appreciate them. Good luck with your next projects Richard!

[@maryhelencrawford3498]

Thank you for adding the 2nd method. I was so frustrated trying to rewire an old 2-way the first way and finding that it did not work because the previous installation was done using the 2nd method. Also, you are very clear and easy to follow. I wish someone like you could teacher in high schools so that students could leave knowing how to fix a number of problems that occur in homes as well as save money on a possible future build.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m glad you found this video helpful. I appreciate your con words Mary.. Thanks a lot for watching!

[@garyfarm]

Same here every where else always talked about Method #1 and not Method #2. Thank you SO MUCH !

[@jorgearellano8625]

Same problem but thanks to adding the second method I got fix

[@traceyflanders]

The reason they do the first method nowadays is because if someone were to change the light switch out with a dimmer later there's a neutral available. Most dimmers afaik require a neutral. Code in my area requires neutrals in all boxes even if they are not connected to anything. Josh is cool.

[@sandymilne224]

I’m housesitting at a residence of a friend and as long as I’ve known him, his 3-way light has never worked. While housesitting, I couldn’t stand it! One box had a 3-way and the other had a regular switch. I went out, bought 2 new switches and replaced them, wiring them as per the first method in your video. Works like a charm! I videoed it and have sent it to my friend insisting he show his wife.😊 Thanks!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That is so cool! I bet they were amazed. It’s interesting how are most things are not that complicated if you have a little insight. Congratulations on successfully finishing a project. Good luck with your future endeavors!

[@sandymilne224]

@@TheExcellentLaborer ; The wife will be when they get back from Europe. Just sent a video to them. They should get it tomorrow their time. Should be worth a couple of steak dinners! 😁

[@BannanaTree-ed4tz]

He explains it so well learned so much. And he's not an electron so cool. 👍

[@lisacheek7433]

I’m currently building a tiny house and your videos have taught me so much! I have been able to do all of my own electrical and pass inspection, as well as save me $7000 by following your videos. Thank you so much!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Lisa! Congratulations with passing your inspection. I know how daunting that’s task can be. Thanks for letting me know. Good luck with your tiny house!

[@jeffreyspence2510]

If I had a tiny house, there wouldn't be any 3 way switches.

[@lisacheek7433]

@@jeffreyspence2510 we have a 3 way switch for our living room lights. A switch at the back door and one at the front door so you can turn the lights on by either door you come in… personal preference I guess.

[@ottoroth9377]

Sounds like you have found a new profession!

[@davidmarquardt9034]

@@lisacheek7433 It's more of a safety thing than any thing else. They want a switch to each entrance of a room or stairway or hallway, so that you do not have to stumble through a dark room and trip over a chair and break a leg to turn on a light. In really old houses they would have a light hanging from the ceiling, with the switch right on the socket. Not all codes pertain to shocks or fire hazards. Some are just basic personal safety.

[@waltoncraghead7422]

*Easy install, so far Works great **Fastly.Cool** !*

[@JayDogg1968]

Great instructional video. Thank you. Couldn't you have used 14-2 and 14-3. More economical and easier to work with...

[@LittleMopeHead]

Maybe the house has 20a circuits only.

[@streamofthought]

That 2nd method is perfect to fix my wiring screw up!! Thanks, you’re awesome!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m glad I could help you. Good luck with your project. Take care!

[@businessman5894]

I wish all the KZbinrs that are electricians would watch your video’s first and learn how to train diy homeowners next. Great job you made me an expert.

[@rafettelci3300]

You are excellent laborer. Wonderfull job.

[@jimg9613]

Excellent presentation........You made something I seldom do so much easier.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I always try to make my videos easy to follow. Thanks a lot for watching!

[@maccook5230]

If it were me I’d always go with the 1st method to save yourself from a headache lol

[@mleindek]

Your video saved my life, I had an inspection and the inspector told me that it was wired incorrectly, after watching your video I called for another inspection and showed him the video and he was not happy about It but had to pass me.

[@truongvuong9551]

I KNEW IT WAS WORKING BUT ALOT PEOPLE DID NOT LIKE THE WAY YOU DO IT.THANK YOU FOR YOUR VIDEO

[@ajmpatriot4899]

I was pleased to see you twist the wires first THEN put the wire nut on! I think that is THE best way to do it. Very stable connections!

[@golfredobastida8991]

Very good explanation

[@HenkSneev]

Excellent video - very detailed, well-explained, and extremely helpful. Thanks for posting it!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Glad it was helpful!

[@4GS-Studios]

I really appreciate this video. I was able to use your second option to fix an issue with a 3 way switch. One of my lights switches haven’t worked in over three years and I finally decided to do something about it. lol

[@joeraymond6649]

U just saved me hours of trail and error. Thanks

[@kt6332]

Thank you for keeping it clean and simple!!

[@jeffreymoen1440]

3 way switches have always been an issue for me. Watched this and did it yesterday. It works!

[@LittleMopeHead]

Thank you for the great tutorial, straight to the point and easy to follow. My house doesn't have a 3-way switch for the kitchen light, so I am planning to add it for convenience. I believe method 2 will be the setup since my kitchen light is set to have this type of wiring.

[@docsridingadventures2880]

Been trying to understand a threeway switch connection watching all sorts of videos for a week or two. You explained it better than anyone else ive seen

[@rodneymyers6728]

Good example! Would appreciate a little wiring diagram & quick explanation as to how the electricity is flowing for these 3- ways. Just trying to understand it!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Rodney! This video kzbin.info/www/bejne/pGKkfmR4j8SWaNE is one I did that has the diagram I used. Yes it’s an interesting switch system. I appreciate you watching!

[@silvergrizzly316]

Rodney, yeah me too😁 I got a little confused on how the juice was flowing but of course I'm watching this 14 hours later and I'm totally tired, lol. Great job Josh! I'll watch tjis again tomorrow wen I'm a lot less tired lolol. Take care buddy.

[@CL-rp4qx]

Thank you for posting this great video. You break it down and make it so simple. I was able to fix a 3 way switch that a supposed licensed electrician did not wire properly. You would make a great instructor/professor. Thank you again!!!!

[@jamesscott80]

if you use the white like he did. that is dangerous and can get someone hurt. it shouldn't be use as a traveller. the power may be on the other wire. so now it shows to be neutral. Per code the neutral can not be switched. Travellers have power that alternate between them (i.e. switched)

[@gabrielgaby5840]

Thanks for the tuition, training while made redundant.❤

[@hoffmanfiles]

The second example on the 3 way is a good one. Kinda shows what you can do with the neutral. And the light doesn't always come out of the second switchbox sometimes it comes out of the one the powers going into.

[@changochulo]

Josh, I want to say thank you for putting these videos together. Im in the process of building our pool house and doing the electrical and plumbing myself. Your videos have been invaluable in figuring everything out. Thank you!

[@spellir2]

Best description I have seen

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you!

[@tankdogjohnson9393]

This is the best one i've seen so far

[@yosvanisleyva7028]

Okok I’m going back every time I’ll need more knowledge for sure!!🎉🎉

[@samsen3965]

Great. Now a question for you. In an installed and wall blind situation (House where you don't know which wire is which) How can you identify, of the two 3 ways switches, which one gets direct load brought in from the circuit and which switch is the one that carries the black wire to lamp/device?

[@stephenc4161]

woooohoooo , thank you thank you ,the penny finally dropped for me, i now understand the principle with the 3 core and earth set up..Thank you so much.

[@thatguy9439]

I've developed my basement myself, and anything I was unsure of I knew exactly where to come. Thank you so much for all your content!

[@CletusJackson333]

You don’t need to twist the wires but I noticed that when you, the connection stays better secured when moving the wires around.

[@texasmeetsmaryland4958]

Thanks for this video. Never knew how to do electrical work, now I do. I was so scared at first but you make it simple to do. Glad I found this channel.

[@edg5102]

That helped me figure out my problem, thank you. In my case (35 yr old house), the hot wire from the power source is RED, and on what should have been the secondary switch. This vid and a voltage tester did the trick.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

That’s great. I’m glad I could help!

[@GT-aRbys]

The way you explain things has been such an added value to me remodeling my entire home. Thank you for helping to make all of the jargon far more understandable. Love the content

[@jacobsonleland]

I enjoyed this video even more so than several others as I am about to be wiring a 3 way for my brother in the in law quarters home for the living room by the entry and the other side at the Garage entry. So Thank you very helpful I thought I had a fair Grip on it anyways but this video seals the deal for me.

[@dcrooks7876]

Thank you for your demonstration I had forgot how to wire a three way switch

[@314pickleball]

Best examples I’ve seen thank you so much!!

[@Jmyers0915]

This is a perfect video. I was looking for the solution you provided in option 2. All of the videos I found kept showing option 1. Thank you. This solution worked perfectly. Much appreciated.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Knowing your options is half the battle when it comes to wiring. I’m glad one of the methods worked well for you. Thanks a lot John for watching!

[@bprigg]

Great Video !! Thanks for showing the 2nd setup with power and load off the first switch!!

[@saracollins5229]

I used the ponytail method🎉

[@mistyrichardson6041]

You were born to teach. Thanks for you're knowledge sharing, talent, and hard work.

[@MiklaDfar]

ANOTHER excellent video. This might help folks grasp the idea of what is happening by showing a whiteboard schematic of the switch terminals and how the current flows (or does not flow) based on the switch position between the hot and neutral incoming power wire. It helped me to understand why certain wires are connected to the common screw of the switch.

[@VinhTran-no6xy]

Thank You so much, you are a professional teacher

[@opportunix]

Your videos are very informative really appreciate your time, I also like your video editing, fast forwarding etc not like some others they are so drawn-out and becomes boring and frustrating to watch. Your systems and products are different to my country NZ but basics are the same thank you again can't wait for the garage build cheers

[@leonardzielewski2744]

Great job. It would help if you explained how the current flows through the circuit.

[@jrremodeling67]

Thank you safe my life great video

[@gonzoman133]

Great informative video, it helped me solve installing switches in my daughter's home. Thank you.

[@frankvoge1610]

Great video, thanks for the help. I added LED can lights to my kitchen on a new 3 way switch circuit. Your video helped make sense of the process.

[@daveglowa9546]

Thanks easy to understand

[@humbertoruiz4916]

Me gustan muchos tus videos saludos desde Houston Texas bendiciones

[@fernandocotto8706]

I must say, I like how everything is explained in these videos. Very clear. I'm definitely going to keep checking your other videos. Now, one thing I would suggest (just an opinion) is for any installer to double check the power going into the cables even after you turn off the breakers. Remember, safety first brother. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@williambell1975]

I’m building an addition and at the electrical phase now. I just wanted you to know that my trade is Roofing and your videos here are awesome. Very detailed and I love the steps you break down for us and how simple you make this. Thank you and you have been a very big help throughout this project of mine.

[@RockyJarvis]

Josh thanks. Currently remodeling a basement bathroom with a single switch but need to install a three way switch. Your video has cleared up the confusion in this process. Will diffidently watch others as I get further along in the process. Thanks again.

[@jayperreira2778]

Great video. Method 2 was just what I needed.

[@rikkicanbuild9964]

Most excellent!! & Nice hat!!

[@jeffmykytiuk5642]

Excellent video as always. You have a knack for easy to understand explanations. Much appreciated.

[@johntrejo9070]

I found the first way easier set up to do -but both ways you are great explaining the techniques 👍

[@ThawngpiMixedup]

Very clear explanation, thanks a lots 👍

[@LHAGYALO258]

Good lesson!!! First one is easy and simple. Thanks for the lesson.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome. Thank you for watching!

[@delta7087]

Love your channel. Thanks for breaking everything down for me to understand.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thank you Chris! I try to keep my videos easy to understand. Stay tuned 🔨

[@KEISHINZAN]

Thank you a lot for your teaching !

[@khaledwaes2384]

I’m really glad I found your channel You really helping me a lot thank you

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I am glad you found my channel as well. I’m glad I am able to help you! You’re welcome!

[@shan4083]

Sir you are a amazing teacher. Thank you

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I really do appreciate your comment. Thank you!

[@michael2810]

Thanks for the video definitely using the 2nd example

[@MAD1450]

Thank you. That was the best explanation on this subject I've ever heard. Great job!!

[@grantmiller2364]

Could you do both these methods with one dimmer switch and one accessory switch? Would be so helpful with all the led dimmers now!

[@buellboy24]

This video just saved my proverbial bacon.

[@noahb.7838]

I'm learning a lot thanks to you, thank you for sharing and keep up with the good work.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks Noah! I appreciate you watching. Take care 💪🏻

[@johnnyboy1543]

I’ve watched four of your videos in the last 6 weeks…so I figured u earned my subscription! Haha. Thanks man

[@dandydonslife9869]

Great explanation, thanks for sharing.

[@redouaneselouani4688]

Thanks so much very helpful with very good explanation

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome! I’m glad I can help you out!

[@jaimebarrientos8811]

Thank for this videos👍

[@lacvo2138]

Excellent video for all learners. I wish you and your channel the best. Thank you very much!

[@CivilianDan]

Again, great job explaining and gives two common scenarios. Wish he ran a trade school. Great teacher.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I appreciate it that! Thank you for watching and this comment!

[@romulopulido8095]

Very clear explanation, thanks a lots

[@misrolasjaimegarcia8059]

Exelent explanation thanks

[@jimmycleveland1373]

Great video. Thank you!

[@CruiserChris765]

Man you are a God send. Thank you for making these videos helped me beyond description much love my man

[@oscarramos4313]

Last explanation help me alot thanks

[@nicorizzo3607]

Man Awesome!!! Getting ready to wire my new pole barn!! Learned a lot!!!! Thank you!!!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You are welcome! Good luck with your project!🔨

[@saracollins5229]

Thank you so much if it wasn't for you and this video I would've fried a terminal. 😮

[@human1513]

Excellent video in many ways.

[@gkalisa1]

Thanks!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks a lot for the support! I hope you get a lot of value out of this channel!

[@gabrielgaby5840]

Thank you, works a treat..! ❤🎉

[@anyyoyo]

Very well explained. Thank you

[@user-cp1gl6ky4b]

physics n wizards workmanship

[@DerrickJohnson-hl2iu]

He is great at what he does.

[@ETPCYT]

Great Video my FRIEND! I was able to wire the kid's playhouse with 4 outlets, 2 three way switches and a regular switch with the help of your videos! Keep up the good work!

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

I’m so glad I could help you. I know they can be complicated if you don’t have experience with them. Good luck with all of your projects and thanks for watching!

[@Mohamed-mm5wi]

Perfect thank you 🙏

[@johnmcguire5594]

Thank you very much for the tips God bless and stay safe

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You’re welcome John. I appreciate that and God bless you too!

[@dragonboy6619]

Excelente vídeo amigo felicitaciones

[@rameshnandhagopal7419]

Your videos are very informative and easy to understand.keep up your hard work in educating people around you and world so that they can save plenty of money and time and manage their own electrical needs . Awesome 💐💐way to go buddy.

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Thanks a lot! I’m glad I could help. Stay tuned for more

[@codamouton]

Thank you so much for this vid. For some reason even after 2 yrs of being an apprentice I haven't been able to wrap my brain around 3 ways. And this has been the most helpful vid I've found. You have made my job easier😁😁😁

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

You're very welcome!

[@mikemacdonald2032]

As a licensed electrician, I need to tell you as an apprentice, it's OK to use these videos as a minor reference. But keep in mind this guy is not an electrician. You are not allowed to use neutral as a traveller and also he makes a huge mess out of the grounds. He's got basic wiring down ok. But quality of workmanship is TERRIBLE. Just a heads up for you. Anybody can do the wiring, but quality is a whole other ball game.

[@cameroncowles6232]

@@mikemacdonald2032 You sound like the many know-it-all tradesman I've met. He is not using a "neutral" wire as a traveler. It is permitted by code to repurpose a white/gray wire, as long as it's taped or painted to identify it as such. NEC Chapter 2, Article 200.

[@adanhernandez9673]

Cool thanks first way easy second way comfuso me,. You are pro,.

[@patrickarchuleta9594]

Again may God keep you safe and thank you very much I always had a problem with 3 way switches.but now I'm learning pretty good for a senior thanks to Mr. Josh.👀👌😌👍🙏

[@TheExcellentLaborer]

Hey Patrick! I appreciate you watching my videos. Sounds like you are a go-getter. I love building houses and showing people what I am doing as I go. Take care!