4 Way Switch Circuits

4 Way Switch Circuit

The most common use of 4 way switch circuits is to control one or more lighting fixtures from 3 or more locations. There really is no limit to how many switches that can be used, however on this site I have created wiring scenarios for 3 switches, if more is desired then read the article at the link bellow in regards to adding additional 4 way switches. Three way switches are also required at the beginning and end of the circuit, with 4 way switches between these.

There are a variety of different ways to wire a 4 way switch circuit, factors that can influence your selection can include…

• Personal preference
• Where the existing source of power is located
• Ease of routing new wire cables
• Number of wire cables required for a particular wiring selection which can also include box fill concerns
• Some wiring scenarios in instances where the new 2011 NEC 404.2(c) compliance is required could mean that at least in some parts of the switch wiring circuit, you will require a 4 wire (plus bare) cable. Although these types of cables are available they are not sold everywhere. If you have difficulty in obtaining a 4 wire (plus bare) cable or simply wish to avoid the need to get that, then choose a wiring selection that can comply with the new NEC rule (if compliance is required) and yet does does not require a 4 wire cable (plus bare), some wiring scenarios only require a 3 wire (plus bare) cable and will still comply with the new 2011 NEC 404.2(c) rule. 3 wire cables (which includes a bare wire) are sold in more places and therefore easier to get.

Click on the desired selection bellow

WHILE EXTREME CARE HAS BEEN IMPLEMENTED IN THE PREPARATION OF THIS SELF-HELP DOCUMENT, THE AUTHOR AND/OR PROVIDERS OF THIS DOCUMENT ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS, NOR IS ANY LIABILITY ASSUMED FROM THE USE OF THE INFORMATION, CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, BY THE AUTHOR and / OR PROVIDER.

By: Donald Kerr