How Do 4-Way Switches Work?

Don’t let standard single-pole switches leave you in the dark

Modern house with lights on at dusk
Photo: Elliott Kaufman / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images
Modern house with lights on at dusk
Photo: Elliott Kaufman / Corbis Documentary / Getty Images
Highlights
  • Multi-way switches, including 3-way and 4-way switches, enable homeowners to control lights from multiple locations.

  • A 4-way switch is an electrical switch that allows control from three or more locations.

  • Unlike single-pole switches, 4-way switches don't have "on" or "off" positions but feature four terminals that reverse the flow of electricity to control connected lights.

  • To create a functional circuit with 4-way switches, connect two 3-way switches on opposite ends and place one or more 4-way switches between them.

Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
Geo Icon

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?

Girl tuning light switch on in the room
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. 

Need professional help with your project?
Get quotes from top-rated pros.
The homeowners guide to Electricians
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Friends dining on a house patio at night
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
If you need electrical work done, you’ve probably been asking, “How much does an electrician cost?” We’ll break down all the cost factors for you here.
woman making a smoothie with an electric blende
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
The cost to ground outlets depends on several factors. This guide will help you prepare for all of the costs involved with this project.
Steel pipe electric outlet on cement wall
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
Most homeowners only pay a couple of hundred dollars to install an outlet in an unfinished basement, but some factors drive up the price. Plan your project with this cost estimate.
Powerlines running to row of houses
Jul 3, 2024
Jul 3, 2024
If a falling tree or built-up ice has damaged the power lines that connect to your house, find out what costs you’re responsible for and if you need to hire an electrician, how to find a pro, and what the utility company is on the hook to fix.
Electrician fixing wires of an outlet
Aug 21, 2024
Aug 21, 2024
Rewiring a house can be a complex project but don’t let it catch you off guard. Read this to plan ahead and discover the cost to rewire a house.
Man snipping wire
Jul 16, 2024
Jul 16, 2024
Learn how to strip wire safely and effectively with these tools and techniques.
Share project details to get started.