One switch controls 2 lights
 

Hello, I was wondering how I could wire a switch that could control two lights. My problem is that the power would be closer to the lights instead of the switch. Can I run power to a light then work off of that? Would I need 14/3 which I have some of and I have some 14/2 so no worries there.


Thanks,
Chad

Yes, you can do it that way. 14/2 is fine.
Run 14/2 to your fixture. Connect the neutral to that fixture. Intercept the hot going to the fixture with a 14/2 switch leg to the switch, coming back to the fixture. Be sure to label the neutral in your switch leg as hot with a piece of black electrical tape on both ends of the switch leg.

kok328 thanks for the reply! Do you know of any links to a diagram that the power would go to a light instead of a switch so I can understand :confused:


Thanks,
Chad

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...w-lt-lt-lt.jpg

http://i256.photobucket.com/albums/h...ightswloop.jpg

Thanks the images are very help full! I have one last question on a 3-way switch. The power would go to one switch 1 and from that switch to a light and from switch 1 to another switch. How would I wire this up using 14/3 wire and which wire goes to the black screw. Thanks!

Here is an example image I made :D

oxicottin: Just to apprise of electricians lingo, i.e., what's said around here anyhow, the two wires (red/white) between switches are termed "travelers" (or "lazy legs"). The feed wires to the arms of the switches (SPDT) are the "points."