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Learning, Sharing, and Teaching => Do it Yourself Discussion! => Topic started by: starguru on June 30, 2018, 07:51:14 AM

Title: Help replacing switch
Post by: starguru on June 30, 2018, 07:51:14 AM

I’m replacing a single switch with a dimmable switch.  I’ve turned of the power.  The current box has 2 black weed, one of which does not appear to be attached to anything.  I’ve attached a picture. 

I’m assuming the wires are

Black (in switch) carries power.
Red (in switch) returns power.
Plain brass (in switch) ground
Loose black?

Any help appreciated.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180630/f716caf05a7b205379e09ff10de58e84.jpg)


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Title: Re: Help replacing switch
Post by: Agg97 on July 06, 2018, 12:57:29 PM

That looks like a 3-way switch.  Black not connected is either the uninterrupted power coming in, or the wire to the fixture.  Red and black connected are the "travelers" which go between two different switches.  There's several different ways a 3-way switch can be installed, however.  Just google it and figure out which scenario you have. 

Agg97