Here's the scoop:
There are 3 switches in my hallway. One switch on side A and two switches on side B. Side A switch controls same light as one switch on Side B. I replaced the switch on Side A and now, when the switches are in a certain configuration, you can hear a buzzing sound and then the circuit trips within 10-15 seconds.
I feel like its a grounding issue, but I don't want to touch anything till I'm sure. The switches all work as they should except for when a specific configuration of on/off exists, the circuit goes haywire.
Any ideas on what the problem is given that a buzzing sound happens and then the circuit trips?
EDIT:
There are two lights, switch A and switch B1 control one light, and switch B2 controls a separate light
The wiring/power source is unknown – could come from the 2 switches at opposite end of hall.
The switch had to be replaced due to physical damage of the switching mechanism
Best Answer
That sounds like a short to me, and a potential fire or electrocution hazard. Leave the breaker off while you fix this. With a 3-way light switch, you'll have two possible paths between the switches (which is why there are 3 screws + ground, 1 line/load, and 2 switched). My guess is that one of the two switched wires is grounding itself. Remove the switch that you worked on, and see if the ground wires are coming into contact with any other wires.