3 way switches - need to replace both?

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3 way switches - need to replace both?

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3 way switches - need to replace both?
3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 18:56:31
Model: HS210  
Hardware Version:
Firmware Version:

Do I need to install Kasa 3 way switches at BOTH current switch locations or will one do?

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#1
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12 Reply
Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 19:15:10

@bmtanner Only need one. You need to install it at the switch that is the power source.

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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 19:45:37 - last edited 2021-04-15 19:51:23

@bmtanner +1 on above post - and also to emphasize again that you must install at the incoming Line end, not the load end 

 

I created this diagram for another member - hopefully that is helpful for you also

Note that you do not have to do anything regarding re-wiring of the 'load' end switch (as long as you have at least successfuly identified which one is which) 

And to confirm this will provide manual operation for on/off from either switch (just as it does now with the dumb switch config) as well as the Smart capability. 

 

Please note that I do not work for, or have any affiliation with, Kasa TP Link. I am simply an enthusiast who likes helping if I can.
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#3
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 20:22:06
Thanks!
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#4
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 20:22:30
Looks like you need a voltage meter to do that?
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#5
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 20:23:12
Thank you so much! Looks like you need a voltage meter to figure out which switch is the power source?
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 20:43:56 - last edited 2021-04-15 20:44:45

@bmtanner Yes, either a meter or a non-contact voltage tester (which is a great tool to have around and not that expensive) - it will even read through the insulation, so very safe to use on a powered circuit. 

Do search for non contact voltage tester at Home Depot or Amazon etc 

 

Here on Amazon - non contact voltage tester

 

(they all do the same thing essentially, some just have more additional features beside the fundamental) 

Please note that I do not work for, or have any affiliation with, Kasa TP Link. I am simply an enthusiast who likes helping if I can.
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#7
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 20:50:22

@bmtanner You can sometimes tell, especially if one is a dual gang box - if there is common incoming black were that feeds TWO switches, then that is almost certainly a line wire (a load wire would not go to multiple switches). But still just safer to get a tester - it's a handy tool to have and especially if you plan to do more of these (and you will! It's addictive!) 

Please note that I do not work for, or have any affiliation with, Kasa TP Link. I am simply an enthusiast who likes helping if I can.
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#8
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 23:00:59
got it. Thx!
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#9
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-15 23:25:39 - last edited 2021-04-15 23:27:26

@bmtanner Here's an updated schematic including the ground and Neutral as White (as it should be) :) 

 

 

 

Please note that I do not work for, or have any affiliation with, Kasa TP Link. I am simply an enthusiast who likes helping if I can.
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#10
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Re:3 way switches - need to replace both?
2021-04-16 01:29:56

@Bethel.8009 you seem to really know this stuff.  Can you also tell me, since Kasa doesn't make a 3 way dimmer, can I replace the non-dimmer switch of my current 3 way with the Kasa 3 way and control the on/off via the app, just not the dimmer function (and just adjust that manually)?

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#11
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