Applies To

All Spring Wound Timers (FF Series, FD Series, SW Series)

Question / Problem

How do I wire two Spring Wound Timers in a 3-way lighting application so the lights stay ON if either or both timers are activated?

Safety Warning

Common Installation / Application Conditions

• The same lighting load is controlled from two locations, such as a hallway or stairway.
• A traditional 3-way lighting application is desired.
• Spring Wound Countdown Timers are used instead of standard 3-way switches.
• The lights must remain ON as long as one or both timers are active.

Step-by-Step Resolution

To work correctly in a 3-way lighting application, the controls must be connected using the existing 3-way wiring so either timer can deliver power to the light. Both spring wound timers used should be single-pole, single-throw controls.

1. Confirm The Timer Type

   Verify that both devices are single-pole, single-throw spring wound timers from the FF, FD, or SW series.

2. Turn Off Power

   Turn off power at the circuit breaker and confirm power is off before making any wiring connections.

3. Wire The First Switch Box

   Pigtail the incoming hot conductor so it feeds the line terminal of Timer 1 and one traveler wire. Connect the remaining traveler wire to the load terminal of Timer 1.

4. Wire The Second Switch Box

   Connect the traveler that is fed from the hot pigtail in the first box to the line terminal of Timer 2. Pigtail the remaining traveler wire with the load terminal of Timer 2 and the load wire going to the light fixture.

5. Restore Power And Test Operation

   Restore power and test each timer individually and together. The lights should remain ON if either or both timers are running and turn OFF only when both timers have expired.

Tips / Additional Notes

• If the lights do not operate as expected, recheck traveler and pigtail connections in both switch boxes.

Wiring