Connecting Brilliant when there are more switches that control the same lights

When there are other switches controlling the lights on a circuit, this is called a "3-way," "4-way," or "multi-way" configuration. A “3-way” switch makes it possible to turn the power on and off from more than one location. “4-way” switches are added when there are three or more locations. A “multi-way” switch is a “3-way” or “4-way” switch, meaning that the same lights can be controlled from multiple locations.

First, identify the wires that you will use.

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  1. Neutral (N) - Generally white in color, and found in homes with modern wiring standards. One or more neutral wire(s) may or may not be connected to your switch. Neutral wires are not used with a standard switch, although some electronic dimmers use them. If there is no neutral wire connected to your switch, one or more will most likely be in the back of the box containing the switch. The neutral wire may be part of a bundle, and is likely capped with a wire nut. If there is more than one neutral wire, you should connect them together, and then to Brilliant, using our section on connecting wire nuts and wire extensions for instructions. If there is no neutral wire, then your home is not compatible with Brilliant. In this event, you should consult an electrician.

  2. Ground (⏚) - Generally bare copper or green in color. Ground wires are used in nearly all circumstances. If you are in an old house, you may find switches without ground wires. If this is the case, do not install Brilliant, and consult an electrician to bring your home wiring up to code.

  3. Common and Traveler - Generally black and red. For two switches, you will see two black wires and one red wire. Identify the black wire that comes into the electrical box in the same shrouded cable as the red wire. These two wires are the Black Traveler wire and Red Traveler wire that connect to your other switch. The other black wire is called the Common wire.

Once you have identified each wire, disconnect the wires from your existing switch and set your old switch aside.

Insert the wires from the wall into the terminal holes in the Brilliant Base, and attach them in by tightening the screws on the sides of the Base until the wires are secure.

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  1. Connect the Neutral wire to one of the “N” holes on the Base. If there are multiple neutral wires, see our section on wire nuts and wire extensions for how to connect them together.

  2. Connect the Ground wire to one of the “⏚” holes on the Base.

  3. Connect the Common wire to one of the “C” holes on the Base.

  4. Connect the black Traveler wire to one of the “L1” holes on the Base.

  5. Connect the red Traveler wire to one of the “L2” holes on the Base.

Double check your wiring! For lighting setups with two or three switches, every terminal should have a wire connected!

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