Wiring multiple light switches


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Old 02-02-06, 07:44 PM
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Wiring multiple light switches

What is the easiest way to wire say 3 light switches in the same box on one incoming power line.
 
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Old 02-02-06, 08:58 PM
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Originally Posted by nighthaw2k
What is the easiest way to wire say 3 light switches in the same box on one incoming power line.
undefinedAre all the switches single pole? Meaning only turning one device on/off from one location? And what are you switching? ie: Lights, outlets, ceiling fan? Depending on the device you are switching will determine wiring schemes. Let us know what you come up with.
 
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Old 02-02-06, 10:08 PM
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You make three pigtails off the incoming black to supply each switch.
Make sure the wirenut is listed for four conductors of the size you are using.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 03:53 AM
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Yes there single pole & yes there for lights.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 05:10 AM
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Originally Posted by nighthaw2k
Yes there single pole & yes there for lights.
Also wirenut the neutrals together(do not pigtail these) and fold them back into the box.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 05:12 AM
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Originally Posted by bolide
You make three pigtails off the incoming black to supply each switch.
Make sure the wirenut is listed for four conductors of the size you are using.
Also wirenut the neutrals together(don't pigtail) and fold them back into the box.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 08:52 AM
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Do you pigtail the grounds also.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 01:58 PM
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Originally Posted by nighthaw2k
Do you pigtail the grounds?
If you are using a metal box, twist them together and apply a wirenut until it won't tighten any further.


A pigtail is a 6" (or as needed) piece of extra wire that you add in.

Depending on local code, you might need a pigtail for the box's ground screw.

If you are using plastic, see below.
 

Last edited by bolide; 02-03-06 at 04:15 PM.
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Old 02-03-06, 02:08 PM
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Originally Posted by bolide
No! Just twist them together and apply a wirenut until it won't tighten any further.
So how do the switches get grounded?

I would splice all the grounds and leave three tails for the switches, IF the wire nuts you are using can handle that many wires. If not you can use one long lead and jump to all the switches.
 
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Old 02-03-06, 04:13 PM
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Originally Posted by Speedy Petey
So how do the switches get grounded?
Right. I'm the metal box guy. My remark was completely inappropriate for a plastic box.
 
 

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