Connect the incoming 120 V line conductor to the common terminal of the first wall control device. From this point, two traveler conductors run between the two control units installed in separate locations. These travelers allow the motorized air mover to be operated from either position in the room.
Use a 14/3 or 12/3 cable between the control boxes depending on branch circuit rating. Black and red conductors typically serve as traveler paths, while the white conductor remains the neutral return for the motor assembly and attached lamp kit. The bare or green conductor connects to the grounding screws inside both electrical boxes.
Attach the load conductor leading to the overhead motor unit to the common terminal of the second control device. When either control lever changes position, the traveler path switches, allowing or interrupting current flow through the motor and attached lighting unit.
Secure all connections with wire connectors rated for 600 V household circuits. Inside the overhead box, connect the neutral from the branch supply directly to the neutral lead of the motor assembly. Keep conductor insulation intact and leave about 15–20 cm of free length inside each box for maintenance.
Ceiling Fan 3 Way Switch Wiring Diagram With Traveler and Power Connections
Connect the incoming 120 V line conductor to the common terminal of the first control unit. Two traveler conductors then link this device to the second control location. These travelers alternate the current path depending on handle position, allowing the overhead motor unit to be controlled from two different spots in the room.
Use 14/3 cable for 15 A circuits or 12/3 cable for 20 A circuits. In most residential installations the black and red conductors serve as traveler lines, the white conductor acts as neutral return, and the bare or green conductor connects to the grounding terminals in both electrical boxes.
Power and load path
The load conductor leading to the overhead air mover connects to the common terminal of the second control device. When either lever is toggled, internal contacts reroute current through one of the traveler conductors. This alternating path either supplies voltage to the motor assembly or interrupts it.
Inside the overhead junction box, connect the neutral supply conductor directly to the neutral lead of the motor unit and any attached lamp module. Secure the line conductor from the second control unit to the motor’s hot lead using a twist-on connector rated for 600 V.
Connection layout tips
Leave about 15–20 cm of conductor length inside each box for servicing. Tighten terminal screws firmly and attach the grounding conductor to the green grounding screw on both control units and the metal junction box if present.
Connecting traveler wires between two three way switches for ceiling fan control
Run a 14/3 or 12/3 cable between the two wall control boxes. Inside this cable the red and black conductors usually serve as traveler paths that transfer the line voltage between both control devices.
Attach these two conductors to the brass-colored terminals on each control unit. These terminals handle the alternating current path that determines whether the overhead motor receives power or remains off.
Follow this connection order inside the two boxes:
- Red conductor from the cable → brass terminal on the first control unit
- Black conductor from the same cable → second brass terminal on the first unit
- At the opposite box connect the same red and black conductors to the two brass terminals of the second unit
- Ground conductor → green screw on both devices
The common terminal of the first control device connects to the incoming 120 V supply line. The common terminal of the second control device connects to the conductor that leads to the overhead air mover assembly.
Keep the neutral conductor continuous between the supply cable and the motor assembly. Join these neutral conductors using a twist-on connector and do not attach them to either wall control device.
Leave around 15 cm of conductor length inside each electrical box so adjustments can be made later. Tighten terminal screws firmly and fold conductors carefully before mounting the control plates.