Replacing 3 switches with a single motion sensor

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01-02-20, 08:15 AM

Adam L

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Replacing 3 switches with a single motion sensor

Hello, I'm confident this question has already been answered, however due to the number of 3 way switch questions I can't find the answer on the googlebox or here.

I have 3 switches all connected to a single light for my mudroom. 2 of the 3 are inside the mudroom and the 3rd is outside in the hallway. I am looking to replace all 3 with a single motion sensor in the mudroom in either of the two spots there is already a switch. I understand there is likely 2 3 way switches and 1 four way switch involved but wasn't sure if I would be able to cap off the unused wires and get a single pole motion sensor or if I would need to get a more advanced motion light. In the ideal world I was trying to not take it all apart before I had the right motion sensor to replace it, but I can get some pictures if they are needed.

Thanks,
Adam

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01-02-20, 07:54 PM

PJmax

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You will have 2) three way switches and 1) four way switch.

You will need a single pole motion detector. It will probably require a neutral.
You can use that in any of the three locations with a slight wiring change.

You can post pictures of the current wiring and we tell you what to change.
How-to-insert-pictures.

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01-02-20, 08:15 PM

Adam L

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Thank you. I am not sure if it changes anything but I didn't specify that I am looking to remove the other 2 switches from the wall and cover them with a blank wall plate.

Thanks, I'll be in touch after I get the motion sensor.

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01-02-20, 08:26 PM

PJmax

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Removing the switches and installing blanks are fine.

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01-09-20, 12:09 PM

Adam L

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Got this figured out by removing the 4 way switch and capping off the extra red. Looks like I got the right switch, thanks!

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01-09-20, 07:47 PM

PJmax

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Good job.

Thanks for letting us know how you made out.

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