4

Previously, I had a low-voltage single light fixture controlled by three switches. However, I recently replaced it with a regular fixture, eliminating the need for the transformer. Unfortunately, I neglected to take a picture of the original wiring configuration before making the switch, and now I'm unsure how to properly connect the wires between Switch Box 2 and Switch Box 3 to restore functionality.

Here's what I can recall about the original setup:

  • Switch Box 1: 3-way switch, 14/3 wire, and 14/2 wire leading to the light fixture.
  • Switch Box 2: 4-way switch, 14/3 wire from Box 1, 12/2 wire to the transformer and Switch Box 3, and another 14/3 wire to Switch Box 3.
  • Switch Box 3: 14/3 wire from Box 2, 3-way switch, and 14/2 wire from Box 2.

My understanding is that for the current setup to function correctly, power needs to reach the 3-way switches. I would be incredibly grateful if you could provide guidance on how to connect the wires between Switch Box 2 and Switch Box 3 in this new configuration.

enter image description here

Improve this question
4
  • 1
    This is way above what I can help with, but are the whites at box 2 and 3 connected together or capped off? Box 1 shows them connected, the other two boxes they are in the air. Do not know how they should be, wait for an expert, but the experts might want to know.
    – crip659
    Commented Feb 4 at 14:50
  • The 2 white wires from the 14/3 wires are connected together in box 2. The 12/2 is open ended in box 2 and box 3. Feel like a dead wire between the 2 boxes. Not too sure how to wire it in box 2 if needed.
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 4 at 19:01
  • You do not show the power in cable. Possible it is the 14/2 so if the white is not connected, then no power.
    – crip659
    Commented Feb 4 at 19:09
  • I checked, the white wires are connected from (two) 14/3 wires has power in box 2. And the white wire from 14/3 in box 3 also has power. I’m sure there is a purpose for 14/2 wire, just not too sure yet. Thank you for your help.
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 4 at 19:22

3 Answers 3

Reset to default
6

Based on your diagram, you just have to hook up the neutrals (and grounds, if you haven't already gotten it)

Assuming your diagram is correct, it looks like you have all the hot wires taken care of, and just have to deal with neutrals and grounds now. Fortunately, it shouldn't be hard to deal with: just connect the two white wires from the /3 cables to each other in Box 2, then connect the two white wires in Box 3 to each other, and last but not least connect all the grounds together in the boxes if you haven't done so already.

Improve this answer
8
  • Thank you so much for your quick reply! I've attached the updated diagram for your reference. I'm still uncertain about the 14/2 wire in box 2—it seems to be a link between box 2 and box 3 without any power. Any insights on its purpose would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for your assistance! file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/42/02/2F11BBBE-BEB7-4340-979E-D9F1772E2548/image0.jpg
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 4 at 18:54
  • @BillChen -- your updated diagram didn't attach
    – ThreePhaseEel
    Commented Feb 4 at 18:58
  • Not too sure how attached diagram/picture. Still learning…
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 4 at 19:02
  • [1]: i.sstatic.net/Eq6yD.jpg (updated diagram)
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 4 at 19:11
  • 1
    @BillChen The cable you're asking about is presumably the link back to your panel (unless it actually terminates in box 2?). Power has to get to this light somehow, so something has to connect to the rest of your house's wiring.
    – Miles Budnek
    Commented Feb 4 at 21:59
1

Edit:
I'm fairly certain I see what's up now. Just saw the photos you have box 2 and 3. I will draw out connections for you. Box 2: the single pole switch on right was the missing information. I believe that one of the 14/2 wires stretched to the right is the wire you didn't know for sure what to do with and the red jumper wire was existing; you just replaced a wire nut with the wago. Connect the black going to box 3 into that wago with the red and black wire. That will be your line in. The white tires in with the other 2 whites on the right. In box 3, connect 2 whites together and connect black wire from 14/2 to common on switch. That will do it! box3 box2

Improve this answer
1
  • You're right! The key step was getting power from box 3 to box 2. I ended up taking power from the other switch in box 3, wiring it as a common wire, and pigtailed it to the common screw on the 3-way switch. Then, wired the rest of the wirings in both box 2 and box 3 as you described. Thanks a ton for all your assistance!
    – Bill Chen
    Commented Feb 10 at 15:10
1

The key step was getting power from box 3 to box 2. I ended up taking power from the other switch in box 3, wiring it as a common wire, and pigtailed it to the common screw on the 3-way switch. Then, wired the rest of the wirings in both box 2 and box 3 as described by Keith.

Improve this answer

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.