Switch loop for three way

[Pattycakes]

I want to move a three way light switch to the other side of the garage but the existing switch box will remain since it has two switches for two lighting circuits and I am only moving one of them. Am I allowed to just run 14/3 and use the white neutral (properly marked as hot) for the new switch feed while using black and red as the travelers? Is not having a neutral for this circuit in the new box allowed? If it matters, there will be a separate circuit also in the new box that does contain a neutral. I’ve already done all of the wiring and everything works great— now just wondering if it is code complaint without the neutral. Thanks

 

[infinkc]

just a thought, you may just go with a Lutron switch to replace the current one, then mount the remote in a wall box. will save you from running any wires. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Lutron-...plate-and-Bracket-White-P-PKG1WS-WH/314328501

 

[wyliesdiesels]

I want to move a three way light switch to the other side of the garage but the existing switch box will remain since it has two switches for two lighting circuits and I am only moving one of them. Am I allowed to just run 14/3 and use the white neutral (properly marked as hot) for the new switch feed while using black and red as the travelers? Is not having a neutral for this circuit in the new box allowed? If it matters, there will be a separate circuit also in the new box that does contain a neutral. I’ve already done all of the wiring and everything works great— now just wondering if it is code complaint without the neutral. Thanks

code requires a neutral in all switch boxes UNLESS a neutral can be added later which means there would be conduit...

 

[exranger06]

If it matters, there will be a separate circuit also in the new box that does contain a neutral.

If that neutral is for a different circuit/breaker, then that doesn't count. It must be a neutral for the SAME circuit/breaker that powers the lights.

If the OTHER switch has a neutral in its box, AND it's also in the garage, then you don't need a neutral in the new switch box. 404.2(C): "Where multiple switch locations control the same lighting load such that the entire floor area of the room or space is visible from the single or combined switch locations, the grounded circuit conductor shall only be required at one location."

Also, if the box is surface-mounted and "...is accessible for the installation of an additional or replacement cable without removing finish materials," you don't need a neutral (404.2(C)(2)). In other words, if you needed a neutral at the switch in the future, and you could easily replace the Nm-b cable without cutting any drywall to do it, then you don't need a neutral.

 

[sparky 1971]

code requires a neutral in all switch boxes UNLESS a neutral can be added later which means there would be conduit...

He might be ok. 404.2(C) says that if the entire floor can be seen from all of the switch locations, only one switch must have the neutral available. It's that way in the 2017 and 2020, not sure about previous editions.

I fit were me, I think I would take a 14/3 to the new location and install a four way at the old.

 

[klassenl]

Just do what you want.

Run the 3 wire.

The code book is a wonderful and varied gift that keeps on giving but we have to live in the real world.

 

[rharman]

He might be ok. 404.2(C) says that if the entire floor can be seen from all of the switch locations, only one switch must have the neutral available. It's that way in the 2017 and 2020, not sure about previous editions.

I fit were me, I think I would take a 14/3 to the new location and install a four way at the old.

I like this idea..... You get an extra switch in the deal - could be really handy.

 

[Jim greengo]

I want to move a three way light switch to the other side of the garage but the existing switch box will remain since it has two switches for two lighting circuits and I am only moving one of them. Am I allowed to just run 14/3 and use the white neutral (properly marked as hot) for the new switch feed while using black and red as the travelers? Is not having a neutral for this circuit in the new box allowed? If it matters, there will be a separate circuit also in the new box that does contain a neutral. I’ve already done all of the wiring and everything works great— now just wondering if it is code complaint without the neutral. Thanks

Which end of circuit is existing 3w switch on,is it dead ended with only 3 wires in the box?

 

[sparky 1971]

I like this idea..... You get an extra switch in the deal - could be really handy.

And... There won't be a dummy switch at the old location with someone standing there flipping it up and down saying "What the hell does that switch do?".

 

[SlappyWhite]

Easy to run the 14/3 using the neutral as a switch wire (marked) and have no neutral in this location and put a four-way at the current location like @sparky 1971 said. As for code, what was the code when the building was wired???? Assuming it is relatively modern wiring but not the full weight of latest codes.... "It was has always been that way...." Unless this is getting permitted and inspected of course!

But at the same time this seems like an application for 14/2/2, and that will get you the neutral at the new location (NEC guys can comment on the application)? We can't get it here in Canada (AFAIK, have not seen it).