Installing a new light switch is a straightforward job for an electrician and doesn’t have to break the bank. Read on to learn how much it costs to install a new light switch.
How Do 4-Way Switches Work?
Don’t let standard single-pole switches leave you in the dark
Get quotes from electricians near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from electricians near you
No obligation · 100% free
Need Help With a Project? Connect With a Pro
A four-way switch allows you to control lights from three or more locations by reversing electrical flow through four terminals between two 3-way switches.
You connect two 3-way switches at opposite ends with one or more four-way switches between them to create a functional multi-way lighting circuit.
Your four-way switch features two brass terminals and two darker terminals that direct current through different pairs based on the toggle position you choose.
Hiring a local electrical professional provides reliable guidance on proper wiring connections and helps install switches in the best locations for your home.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Multi-way lighting circuits with 4-way switches allow you to control your lights from three or more switches, so there’s no need to walk across the room or stumble in the dark to control the lights. So, how do 4-way switches work? Let’s break down the role of these switches in a multi-way lighting circuit.
What Is a 4-Way Switch?
Photo: Westend61 / Westend61 / Getty Images
A 4-way switch is a type of electrical switch that you can activate from three or more different locations. In a multi-way lighting circuit, 4-way switches are the intermediary between 3-way switches. A typical setup involves two 3-way switches and one or more 4-way switches placed between them.
The 4-way switch doesn’t have a “on” or “off” position. Instead, it has four terminals (hence the name “4-way”) and allows you to reverse the flow of electricity within the circuit, which shuts the connected light on or off. Hire a local electrician to review your home’s electrical system and install 4-way switches in the best locations.
How 4-Way Switches Work
Unlike how a standard light switch works, a 4-way switch is typically part of a combination of switches rather than being used on its own. To create a functional circuit with 4-way switches, you would typically connect two 3-way switches on either end of the circuit and place one or more 4-way switches between them.
In this set-up, a 3-way switch connects traveler wires to one side of the 4-way switch while the other side of the 4-way switch links to another 3-way switch. The 3-way switch is connected to a light fixture, and a flip of any of the switches will activate the light.
Understanding Multi-Way Switches
In a typical single-pole switch setup, there is one switch that controls the power to a light fixture. However, these aren’t ideal for large areas with multiple entry points or long hallways that split into different directions, as they’d call for some fumbling in the dark to turn the switch on and vice versa. Multi-way switches, which include 3-way switches and 4-way switches, are designed to be turned on or off from multiple locations.
Wiring for a 4-Way Switch
Typically, a 4-way switch features two brass-colored terminal screws and two screws in black or darker colors. In addition, it incorporates a green ground terminal for safety and proper grounding. The four main (non-grounding) terminals offer two sets of toggle positions, with each set corresponding to one of these toggle positions. When the switch is in the upward position, it permits the current to flow through two specific terminals. While in the downward position, the current is directed through the other pair of terminals, shutting the lights on or off accordingly.
Electrical services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.7★ avg. • 107 total reviews
- Jeff B.
Great company! Price was competitive, technician showed up on time and completed the job (exterior electric Radon fan replacement) quickly. Would hire them again.
MaGen Property Inspections and Radon Mitigation - Regina H.
I conferred with 2 other contractors before Armstrong Electric. Nick and his crew showed me that the project was not as convoluted as the other contractors made it appear to be. They completed the entire project on time. They were professional, friendly and cleaned up after at completion. I...
Armstrong Electric LLC - Jeffrey J.
The techs on my project, Shawn and Cliff, were great. They were prompt, courteous, and efficient. I am very happy with the results and would definitely contact Mr. Electric for any future electrical projects.
Mr. Electric of Columbus - William R.
Victor was wonderful. He was on time, professional, and explained everything he was doing. He was thorough and figured out that the problem was electrical instead of with my HVAC system. Very knowledgeable. I will be using this company in the future for any HVAC needs. Thanks!
Hubbs Heating & Air LLC - Jerald W.
They were excellent. They did a great job. I was totally satisfied. They put tremendous effort in making sure the work was completed. They were great. They provided immediate response to any inquires I made. I would hire them again. I would recommend them to anyone who needs electrical work....
Property-Tech Industries, LLC - Paul H.
Initially, the repairman could not find the problem. Apparently, there was some electrical shortage, but he could not find the definite problem. He left, but called back later to say he had a new idea. He returned and replaced the light switches on the doors. The refrigerator seemed to return...
Appliance Pro LLC - Sarah C.
The initial quoted price from a walk-through seemed high, but we discussed that the quote represented worst case scenario (re-wiring to two floors) and we were excited about the opportunity to have the work done in a timely manner with closing for fire safety reasons, etc. When the job was...
- Erin W.
I have to tell you I am all about customer service - I will go out of my way and even pay more for it if you give me great customer service. <br> <br>In a world where this is hard to find, these guys were awesome! I can not sing their praises enough. They were prompt, personable, funny, got...
Waibel Electric - Bradley H.
When I challenged the markup on the generator, Bruder Electric withdrew its bid. They only want naïve customers.
- Gregory B.
We had no power to any of the electrical outlets in the MBR. We'd had an intermittent problem for a few years and they finally went out all together. We live on the 3rd floor of a 100 year old building and I know from past experience the wiring has been added to in hodgepodge ways over the...
The homeowners guide to electrical services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
When you want to control one light fixture from two switches—usually at either entrance to a hallway—you’ll need a three-way switch. It’s more complicated than installing a single switch, but an electrician can stall one for you easily.
When a three-way switch only works when one switch is on, the wiring or switch is often to blame. Find out how to diagnose and correct the problem.
Light switches don’t have to be confusing for non-electricians. If you’re wondering how does a light switch work, here’s what to know.
Common types of light switches include single-pole, double-pole, and three-way switches. Keep reading to learn more about the best light switches for your home.
Understanding what wire colors mean will help you complete electrical projects safely. Follow this guide to distinguishing blue and brown wires.