Is it okay to use both the push-in and screw connectors on a 3-way switch to feed power to an always-on outlet?
Here's why I ask. This is similar to how it was wired before:
I'm replacing a dead 3way switch (which is part of a 4way switch system for a hallway), and this particular 3way has four wires (plus the ground). There is a bedroom that is on the same circuit, and draws it's always-on wall outlets and overhead switched light (independent of the hall switches) from this 3way switch.
The reason I know this is that when I opened it up, and saw four wires, I didn't notice it was a 3way switch, so I put in a 4way switch. The hall lights operate as expected -- but the bedroom gets no power at all.
I looked more closely, and realized the old switch was in fact a 3way.
It's an old Leviton push-in type of switch, with four holes you can push wires into (and three screw type terminals). The two connectors on one side are both labeled "common". (And the screw-less, push-in-only connector is one of these.) I also tested with a multimeter to verify there's continuity between both "common"-labeled terminals.
I haven't seen this usage before with the four wires. Question #1, am I right in concluding that the two common terminals are essentially the same as if they were spliced together?
On the new Leviton 3way switch I bought, there are only three push-in connectors and three screw terminals next to each. So, question #2: Would it be reasonable to push in one of the common wires, and screw in the second?
Thanks!
Here's why I ask. This is similar to how it was wired before:
I'm replacing a dead 3way switch (which is part of a 4way switch system for a hallway), and this particular 3way has four wires (plus the ground). There is a bedroom that is on the same circuit, and draws it's always-on wall outlets and overhead switched light (independent of the hall switches) from this 3way switch.
The reason I know this is that when I opened it up, and saw four wires, I didn't notice it was a 3way switch, so I put in a 4way switch. The hall lights operate as expected -- but the bedroom gets no power at all.
I looked more closely, and realized the old switch was in fact a 3way.It's an old Leviton push-in type of switch, with four holes you can push wires into (and three screw type terminals). The two connectors on one side are both labeled "common". (And the screw-less, push-in-only connector is one of these.) I also tested with a multimeter to verify there's continuity between both "common"-labeled terminals.
I haven't seen this usage before with the four wires. Question #1, am I right in concluding that the two common terminals are essentially the same as if they were spliced together?
On the new Leviton 3way switch I bought, there are only three push-in connectors and three screw terminals next to each. So, question #2: Would it be reasonable to push in one of the common wires, and screw in the second?
Thanks!
