I am replacing a 3-way switch that controlled two lights in a bathroom. There is only one switch, but controls two lights. The old switch worked fine. But now when I replaced it, in one switch position one light is on one light is off. In the other switch position, the lights switch so the other is on and the one that was on is now off. I tried a different 3 way switch just in case it was a bad switch. I also tried switching the red and white wires just in case I messed something up but the same thing happens. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!
Electrical – One switch controlling 2 lights
electrical
Related Solutions
The only product that I know of that will do what you want is the Lutron Maestro Light/Fan control. This product consists of a switch and canopy module. The switch will digitally talk to the canopy module over the single ungrounded wire and control lights/fan separately. The kits are one switch and one module but the switch can talk to 4 modules at once.
According to the instructions found here, you'll have to replace the other switch with a Retractive Press Switch when using a dimmer.
Important notes - for two way and multi - way installation
- Read General Installation Safety Instructions before starting work.
- Any existing 2 Way or Intermediate switches MUST be replaced with Retractive Press Switches.
- Any number of Retractive Press Switches may be installed provided total cable length does not exceed 50m.
- Either 1 Way normally open or 2 Way Retractive Push Switches may be used.
- If 2 Way retractive switches are used, connect to Common (COM) and normally open L1 (1 WAY) terminals as shown. Do NOT use the L2 (2 WAY) terminal.
- If replacing an existing 2 Way switch,cut back and insulate the unused 2 way wire previously connected to the L2 (2 way) terminal.
- All Metal Wall Boxes and Metal Plate Switches must be earthed.
- Do NOT connect more than 1 Dimmer in the same circuit,
- Remove label covering centre terminal on rear of dimmer. This terminal is to be connected to Retractive Switch as shown in wiring diagram. Do NOT connect any other conductor to this terminal.
However, there does not appear to be a requirement to replace the regular 3-way switch if a dimmer is not being used.
You might want to telephone the manufacturer to confirm this.
Here is a wiring diagram provided from the above link for non-dimming multiple switches
Related Topic
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- Electrical – Changing two switch to one switch
- Electrical – Bathroom and hallway lights keep turning off
- Electrical Wiring – Identifying Two Black Hot Wires or One Line/Load Wire to Indoor Light Switch
- Electrical – Single pole switch still controlling multiple lights
- Electrical – How to correctly wire two lamps to 2 way switch
- Electrical Wiring – How to Convert a 4-Way Switch to a Single Pole Switch
Best Answer
You are probably not replacing a 3-way. A 3-way switch system uses two switches to control one device. Try using a regular(single-pole) light switch. Connect the the 'live' line or power wire to one side of the switch. Now any device(s) connected to the other side of the switch will be controlled by the switch after you turn the power back on.