dimmer switch wiring question

Can I use a multi location (3 way) dimmer in a single pole application. If so, I assume the way to do it is to just not wire the "extra" wire that is designed to travel to the other switch.

 

Yes, you can use a 3-way as a single pole. Simply leave one of the traveler screws unconnected. Make sure you screw that screw fully in, as it will occasionally be live.

The above assumes that you have the wiring for a single-pole switch. If you are already wired for a 3-way (i.e., you have two traveler wires and a common wire), then you may not get the results you desire.

Give us the bigger picture. What are you trying to accomplish? Are you converting a fixture controlled by 3-ways into a fixture controlled only from one location? Or are you just trying to save the buck it would cost you to buy a new single-pole switch to replace a failed single-pole switch (and you happen to have an extra 3-way switch in the kitchen drawer)?

 

John-
You answered my question perfectly. FYI, I am putting in some Lutron Spacer switches and I found a dealer that was closing out the 3 way kits at a price that was cheaper than the single pole switches by themselves. So it was simply a matter of saving a few bucks!

Thanks again.