Three-way Switch Replacement

Written By: Tao Zhuo

Comments: 0

Difficulty

Moderate

Steps

Time Required

20 - 45 minutes

Introduction

A three-way switch is a common type of light switch that is used in many homes to control a single light fixture from two or more locations. Over time, these switches may become worn or damaged, requiring replacement.

Replacing a three-way switch may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be a simple DIY project. In this guide, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to replace a three-way switch safely and effectively.

Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or new to home repairs, this guide will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to replace a three-way switch and restore proper functionality to your lighting system.

Tools

Parts

Light Switch

Step 1

Locate and turn off the circuit breaker for your switch.
Try to turn the switch to ensure you turned the power off.

Step 2

Use the screwdriver to remove the 15mm Flathead screws on the wall plate.
Remove the wall plate from the wall.

Step 3

While wearing insulated gloves, gently pull out the switch and use a Duspol or any other Voltmeter to test if there is voltage at the contacts.
You can also use a single pole phase tester, but that's not the proper way to do it.
Do not work on live circuits if you are not an experienced professional.

Step 4

Label the black live or load wire which connects to the power or the device and usually on the down position of the switch.
Use the screwdriver to loosen the 5mm Phillips #1 screw so that you can remove the live or load wire from the switch.

Step 5

Label the two traveler wires where the up position is held by gold screws of the old switch.

Step 6

Use the screwdriver to loosen the 5mm Phillips #1 screws so that you can remove these two traveler wires.
After the wires are removed, disconnect the old switch.

Step 7

You will find there are one or two wires left in the outlet box.
Ground wire is the bare copper wire.
The white one is the neutral wire that may be in another outlet box.
Please label the neutral wire and the ground wire.

Step 8

Using your new switch, link two traveler wires to the positions with gold screws of the new switch and tighten the 5mm Phillips #1 screws.
Link the live or load wire to the position with a black screw and tighten the 5mm Phillips #1 screw.
Please ensure you link the wires to the correct places.

Step 9

If there is a green 5mm Phillips #1 screw on the new switch, please link the ground wire to and tighten it.
For the intelligent switch, there would be a green wire so that you can group the ground wire with the green wire and tighten them with a wire nut.

Step 10

There is an extra white wire on the intelligent switch.
Group the neutral wire with the white wire and use the wire nut to tighten them.