Can a timer be used on a three way switch circuit
#1
07-22-16, 05:21 AM
Member
Thread Starter
Can a timer be used on a three way switch circuit
Had a customer ask if a three way switch, two toggle switches operating one light, can be substituted with a timer at one of the switches. I told him I don't think so, but was not sure. He confirmed he had three conductor wire (red, black and white). He said the timer would be powered by the hot wire. But I told him where would you connect the traveler (red) wire to provide power if the switch is flipped. I think it would work only if the switch was in one position only. Your thoughts?
Edit...Are there timers made for a three way switch set up?
Edit...Are there timers made for a three way switch set up?
#2
07-22-16, 06:19 AM
Member
They are available ,but note that a neutral is required.
https://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-PLS...y+timer+switch
https://www.amazon.com/Honeywell-PLS...y+timer+switch
#3
07-22-16, 11:41 AM
Check out the Intermatic STO1.
They make a 3-way version, no neutral required. It's battery powered.
Intermatic 15-Amp In-Wall Heavy Duty Astronomic Digital Timer-EI600WC - The Home Depot
They make a 3-way version, no neutral required. It's battery powered.
Intermatic 15-Amp In-Wall Heavy Duty Astronomic Digital Timer-EI600WC - The Home Depot
#4
07-22-16, 12:34 PM
Member
Thread Starter
Gentleman, thank you both for the leads. I did not know about these.
I'm still waiting for Ray to confirm or deny if an ordinary timer can be wired into the circuit.
I'm still waiting for Ray to confirm or deny if an ordinary timer can be wired into the circuit.
#8
07-22-16, 08:09 PM
Group Moderator
GE makes a timer I use all the time. The link is below. Here's the poop.
You need a neutral which isn't really a problem because the timer becomes the switching device and the remaining three way switch is only used as a single pole switch. The switch tells the timer to turn on or off.
They give you instructions which are not easy to follow. I have helped a number of members here wire them but it requires pictures of the wiring at both ends. It is NOT a cake installation if you don't understand wiring.
GE 3-Way Sunsmart In-Wall Digital Timer-15312 - The Home Depot
You need a neutral which isn't really a problem because the timer becomes the switching device and the remaining three way switch is only used as a single pole switch. The switch tells the timer to turn on or off.
They give you instructions which are not easy to follow. I have helped a number of members here wire them but it requires pictures of the wiring at both ends. It is NOT a cake installation if you don't understand wiring.
GE 3-Way Sunsmart In-Wall Digital Timer-15312 - The Home Depot
#9
07-22-16, 08:20 PM
Member
Thread Starter
OK. That confirms my suspicions and I learned about some new product. Thanks to both Geochurci and PJ for the heads up and concise answer.
PJ, that Intermatic unit looks interesting that aandpdan (post #3) listed. No neutral required, multi voltage, AC or DC and multi type lights, single pole or 3 way. But it does use a battery.
PJ, that Intermatic unit looks interesting that aandpdan (post #3) listed. No neutral required, multi voltage, AC or DC and multi type lights, single pole or 3 way. But it does use a battery.
#10
07-22-16, 10:49 PM
Group Moderator
Yes.... I have used them too. At one time they were very reliable. I've found the quality has slipped and no longer use them.
