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How do I convert a 3-way switch to 2-way and use the 2nd switch as a receptacle?

How do I convert a 3-way switch to 2-way and use the 2nd switch as a receptacle?


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Old 11-23-16, 03:02 PM
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Question How do I convert a 3-way switch to 2-way and use the 2nd switch as a receptacle?

I have a 3-way switch controlling a light, but I never use the second switch. However, I need a receptacle where the extra switch is located. Is there a way to connect the wires at the extra switch so that the first switch turns on the light and makes the receptacle hot at the same time?
 
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Old 11-23-16, 03:38 PM
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Hi,we need some pics of the wiring at the box you plan to install the receptacle.
 
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Old 11-23-16, 04:01 PM
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(No such thing as a 2-way switch. It is just a regular switch.) Does power come in at the light or one of the switches?
 
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Old 11-23-16, 05:39 PM
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It comes in at the light.
 
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Old 11-23-16, 11:53 PM
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It [power] comes in at the light.
Then you probably have no neutral at either switch* so no power for a receptacle at either switch. Unless you have both a 3-conductor cable (red, black, white) and a 2-conductor cable (black, white), that's five wires plus ground at both switch boxes, easiest may be to run power from a near by receptacle.

*Assumes wired prior to 2011 code.
 
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Old 11-24-16, 07:09 AM
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I was afraid it was like this since it wasn't obvious how I could do it.
Thanks a lot. You've saved me a lot of frustration and probably a couple of shocks.
 
 

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