3-Way Switches
#1
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3-Way Switches
HELP!!!
I have a 3-Way switch in my kitchen and I just can't seem to get the wiring right. Here's what my circuit looks like: Power comes from Outlet1 to switch 1 (3-Way switch) and switch 3 (storage room). Then I have the 14-3 connecting switch 1 and switch 2 (the two 3-Way switches). I get confused with all of the "traveler" speak. Can someone tell me "plug the red wire into ___ slot and the black into ___ slot"? I feel like I have tried every combination possible but I just can't get it right. Right now the way it's wired, the 3-Way switch works correctly but the storage room light (switch 3) only works when switch 2 is in the down position. What am I doing wrong?!?
I have a 3-Way switch in my kitchen and I just can't seem to get the wiring right. Here's what my circuit looks like: Power comes from Outlet1 to switch 1 (3-Way switch) and switch 3 (storage room). Then I have the 14-3 connecting switch 1 and switch 2 (the two 3-Way switches). I get confused with all of the "traveler" speak. Can someone tell me "plug the red wire into ___ slot and the black into ___ slot"? I feel like I have tried every combination possible but I just can't get it right. Right now the way it's wired, the 3-Way switch works correctly but the storage room light (switch 3) only works when switch 2 is in the down position. What am I doing wrong?!?
#2
Can someone tell me "plug the red wire into ___ slot and the black into ___ slot"?
We can't tell you by color code because exact color used depends on the situation and is optional with the installer. I'd suggest you forget travelers and concentrate on identifying the commons. The always hot black will go to the common of one switch and the black of the load (light) to the other switch's common. One thing to look out for is the white is not always used as a neutral. It is supposed to be marked at both ends with a black, red, or blue mark* to indicate it is part of the hot wires but sometimes isn't.
*The wire that is used as an ungrounded conductor (hot) if not factory colored an acceptable color by code must be remarked with tape, marker pen, paint, etc. any color but white, gray, green, or green/yellow.
#3
What am I doing wrong?!?
When you say
Power comes from Outlet1 to switch 1 (3-Way switch) and switch 3 (storage room),