How to connect a 3-key switch. Connection diagram for a three-key switch. Video on the topic

The three-key switch allows you to change the level of illumination in the room by turning on required quantity lighting fixtures. Such switches are often installed in large corridors, rooms with several lighting fixtures, and when it is necessary to control lighting in different rooms from one place. For example, a three-key switch is often used to control lighting in the bathroom, toilet and hallway.

Such devices can be made in different shapes, sizes and styles. This allows you to select optimal solution for a specific room. Based on the photo of three-key switches, you can choose the maximum good option, harmoniously combined with the interior of your room.

Preparatory work

To install a three-key switch, you should prepare a seat. In the case of hidden wiring, you should make a hole for the socket box using a crown. The switch itself will be installed in the socket box.

A wire from the distribution box should be brought to the installation site, preparing a groove in the wall. If the wiring is external, the wire can be supplied using a cable duct and a surface-mounted switch can be used.

Wire selection and safety requirements

The three-key switch is connected using a wire with a cross-section of at least 0.75 mm2 (it is recommended to use a wire with a cross-section of 1.5 mm2). Installation is carried out on an already finished wall. If you only need to replace the switch, the work is noticeably simplified. You should unclip the keys, unscrew the fastening screws, disconnect the outer part and remove the base from the socket box, disconnecting the wires.

All work must be carried out only when the power supply is turned off. You can turn off the power at the distribution panel. Before performing work, you must make sure that there is no voltage using an indicator.

Design and principle of operation of a three-key switch

The circuit of a three-key switch is quite simple and is almost similar to devices with one or two keys. When the key is pressed, the power supply circuit of the lighting device is closed or opened. The design of the switch consists of movable contacts that are opened and closed by keys.

The three-key switch provides contact pads for separate control of three lighting fixtures. This solution saves space and simplifies installation. Separate lamp control also allows you to save energy and flexibly adjust the light level.

A three-key switch provides the ability to turn on lighting only in the areas needed at a particular moment.

Tools and materials for installation

To connect the device you need the following tools:

flat slotted screwdriver;
pliers;
stripper for removing insulation (you can use a simple knife).

If you are installing a three-key switch for the first time, you must also purchase wires of a suitable cross-section, a distribution box, a socket box and terminal blocks. If the wiring is external, you will need a cable duct; if it is hidden, you will need a corrugated casing and alabaster mortar.

Selecting a three-key switch

In terms of size, color and shape, you should choose a switch based on your personal preferences. It is important to pay attention to the degree of protection of the device, indicated by the letters IP with two numbers. The first number determines the level of protection against dust, the second – against moisture. IP20 class devices are suitable for installation inside ordinary residential premises. In open areas and indoors high humidity(bathroom) it is advisable to use IP66 class switches.

A good three-key switch should have a connection diagram and the phase terminal marked (with the letter L or an arrow).

Installing a three-key switch with your own hands

The main stages of installation and connection of a three-key switch:

Turn off the power supply at the panel.
Disassemble the switch. Disconnect the housing from the base part and loosen the terminal clamps. There are models with snap terminals; there is no need to loosen them; here the wire is fixed with a clamping mechanism. Loosen the spacer screws to install the device into the socket box.
Connect the wires. Here you need to act carefully. The phase is connected to a common terminal, from where it is distributed to 3 lighting fixtures or 3 groups of lamps in a chandelier. You need to strip the wire of insulation no more than 1 cm. In the case of stranded wires, use special sleeves or pre-tin the ends.
Connect the wires in distribution box. This can be done using special terminal blocks or soldering wires.
Check that the connection is correct. Before assembling the switch, check whether the keys work correctly. To do this, temporarily turn on the power supply on the panel.
Assemble the switch and junction box. The switch is secured in the socket box with the supplied mounting screws. After installing the internal part, install a protective and decorative casing on the switch.
Turn on the power on the panel.

It is important to ensure that the switch opens the phase wire and not the neutral wire. Otherwise there is a risk of injury electric shock, since voltage will be constantly present on the lighting fixture.

Photo of connecting a three-key switch

A switch is the main device designed to control lighting in an apartment. A few years ago, a triple switch was a rarity in homes, but now it is very popular among the population. There is a huge range of such devices, differing in design and modification. The practicality of its use lies in the ability to control three light sources from one control point. If there is a need for such devices, then you need to know how to properly connect a triple switch.

Applications

Interior designers are increasingly suggesting dividing light into groups. Multi-level ceilings, arches, niches require separate lighting. Modern studio apartments, divided into zones, provide slightly dim lighting in the recreation area, bright lighting in the functional area near the computer, bookshelf, and armchairs. In the living area, where there is a TV, a sofa and dining table, you can use combined light.

How to connect a triple light switch so that it is convenient to use? It will be appropriate:

in the corridor to connect three rooms to lighting at once - a bathroom, a toilet and a kitchen, if they are located close to each other;
if the room has a multi-arm chandelier or combined lighting (main and additional);
when the ceiling is made at several levels;
if it consists of three parts;
if you need to control the lighting of three rooms from one point.

Advantages of use

Why is it beneficial to install a triple switch? How to connect it to get benefits?

Ergonomics - one device looks more beautiful instead of three.
Cost-effective cable laying - less financial and labor costs will be required.
The need for one hole in the wall, instead of three.
Economical in energy consumption, since full illumination with all light bulbs is not always required; sometimes you can get by with some of them.

Types of triple switches

Before installing the switch, you need to decide what function is required from it, based on this, choose the type:

Ordinary.
With a light indicator - serve as a beacon for finding a switch or signaling in which rooms the lights are on.

With a socket - usually used in the corridor near the sanitary rooms.
Hidden design - for placing the working part inside the wall.
External version - for placing the housing on the wall.

Selection criteria

With all the variety of switches on the market, it is recommended to adhere to certain points:

Models with Modern convenient way fixing the wires in the device.
No external damage - scratches, cracks, chips.
Reliable terminals that can firmly fix the wires.
Clear key operation with a characteristic click, without jamming.
Availability on back side device diagrams, how to connect a triple switch.

Switch device

The operating principle of a triple switch is no different from a double and single switch. Pressing the key to the "On" position closes the contact of the lighting circuit, voltage appears on the lighting device, and the light bulb lights up. Switching the key to the "Off" position opens the contact and the light goes out. Do this on each of the three keys. The switch consists of:

protective part - keys and frames;
working part - mechanism for fixing wires and housing.

Switch connection

According to electrical safety precautions, before working with wires, it is necessary to turn off the voltage by turning off the power supply. Before this, determine the wires with phase and neutral using a voltage indicator.

If there is a hidden switch, then first of all you need to drill a technical hole for the socket box using a drill with a special conical attachment. A socket box is inserted into this opening, for a more durable installation of which an alabaster solution is used.

A four-core copper cable with a core cross-section of 1.5 mm 2 is supplied to this hole. It is recommended to process the ends of the wires. First remove insulation sharp knife or a stripper. Then put lugs on them that match the terminals on the electrical device and crimp them with a special hand tools- crimper. If you don’t have a crimper at hand, you can get by with a soldering iron, twisting the core fibers with your fingers and tinning them. The simplest option is to simply insert the stripped ends of the wires into the clamping devices of the triple switch.

How to connect? The first core is connected to phase B on one side and to the common contact in the switch on the other end. The other three wires go to the three switch terminals located opposite the common contact at one end, and each wire goes to the phase terminal of its lighting fixture (one of the three) at the other end of the cable. This can be seen in the triple switch wiring diagram. You can see how to connect here.

Three coming from the lighting fixtures are connected to each other and to the zero coming from the power supply.

There should be eight wires in the distribution box - three of them come from the power supply (phase, neutral and ground). Zero and grounding go further to the lighting fixtures, and the three phase wires connected to the three chandeliers are also connected to three wires coming from the triple switch. How to connect is indicated in detail in the diagram.

In old wiring, the neutral wires were often twisted directly in the switch socket, behind the operating device, and not in the junction box. Some electricians still practice this method in order to do without additional nodes in the circuit. Thus, there is no need to install a box, which is important for preserving the appearance of the room, especially with expensive wall decoration.

An important rule is that the switch must always open a phase.

Connecting a switch with a socket

How to connect a triple switch with a socket? The diagram is shown below.

It is distinguished by the presence of another neutral wire, coming directly from the power supply and connected directly to the outlet. This device is used in the corridor, next to the plumbing rooms, where an outlet is needed, but making another technical hole separately for the connector is impractical. It is also used when an outlet is rarely needed, because the switch is usually mounted high from the floor level, and the electrical connector is just above the baseboard. How to connect a triple switch with a socket so that it is convenient to use both the connector and the keys? You can choose the optimal height for comfortable operation of the device individually.

Undoubtedly, it is very convenient for controlling light in an apartment. It is necessary to follow the electrical safety rules when installing it, that is, before work, turn off the power supply and check the absence of voltage with an indicator. After work, check the connection according to the diagram again and only then apply voltage to the network.

Switches are the main devices for controlling lighting. The most common is single, but if you need to control several lamps from one place, two- and three-key ones are used. The photo below shows a three-gang switch with a socket.

Three-gang switch with socket on the wall

Purpose

A triple or three-key switch is designed to switch three groups of lamps. This can be a combined method of lighting, where spot lighting is combined with central lighting, groups of lamps in multi-arm chandeliers, different levels plasterboard ceiling, turning on lights in the bathroom, corridor, toilet. Its advantages are as follows:

saving electricity;
compactness;
Beautiful appearance;
control from one place several light sources in different rooms(in the bathroom, toilet, kitchen);
the ability to regulate illumination by switching light sources where it is not possible to use dimmers;
changing the lighting in the room if necessary.

Options for using multi-key switches:

changing the lighting intensity of the chandelier;
control of several lamps (table, pendant, wall);
control of several lighting zones in one room (lamp, chandelier, backlight).

They also add a socket. The device in the form of a block becomes more functional.

Device selection

Since the choice is quite large, you can find a model that matches the interior of the room . The devices also differ functionally:

Regular switches.
Devices with an indicator that can turn on in the dark to indicate its location or indicate which key is on.
Pass-through switches. Installed in different places long corridors or passages, on stairs, different floors, etc. Through them you can control one or a group of lamps from different places.

The body of the product must be free of scratches, burrs, abrasions and other damage. The keys should be easy to switch with characteristic clicks, and the terminals should firmly fix the connected wires. Self-clamping terminals work reliably and are more convenient to use. Just insert the wire into the hole and it will be fixed. It is important to remove it correctly if necessary. For this purpose, the device has special latches that can be pressed out. If you pull the wire out of the hole, the connector may become damaged.

Connection

The connection diagram of the switch depends on its type. On the back of the device there is a diagram of its contacts. How they are connected to the lamps can be seen in the figure.

Three-key switch connection diagram

Power wires are supplied to the distribution box: blue zero (N) and brown phase (L). 3 wires from the light bulbs are connected to zero. The phase goes to the switch, where it is connected to terminal (L). From the switch contacts it spreads to the light bulbs, closing their circuits.

The switch is always inserted into the phase wire, not the neutral wire.

Despite the fact that the connection diagram is simple, the following technology for installing the switch must be observed:

De-energizing the electrical network by turning off the circuit breaker.
Dismantling the old switch: removing the buttons, removing the frame, loosening the clamping screws, removing the housing from the socket box, freeing the wires. A mark is made on the phase wire that is disconnected from terminal (L). First, the voltage indicator checks for the presence of a phase on it, since the wires may be mixed up. To do this, voltage is temporarily applied. After touching the phase bare wire the indicator should light up. Then the power turns off again.
The new switch is connected according to the diagram shown on its reverse side. It shows the terminals for connecting the phase and the other three wires. The clamping screws are first unscrewed a little to allow free entry of wires.
The switch is mounted in the socket box. The block is fixed with clamping screws, after which the lining and keys are attached.
The correct operation of the device is checked by pressing the keys one by one.

In old-style apartments, two-key switches are installed to turn on the lighting in the hallway, toilet, bathroom and kitchen (in different combinations). If there are not enough wires to install a triple block, you will have to lay them additionally.

Separate double and triple switches can be installed for the bathroom and kitchen large sizes, where there may be several lighting zones.

If a three-key switch with a socket is installed, its connection diagram differs slightly from the previous one. In Fig. Below are two different designs three-key switch (a – BVR3; b – BSU3), where the electrical circuit is the same (c). Power is supplied to the contact terminals (5) of the socket through a separate neutral core and phase, connected using a jumper from the block.

Block diagram of a three-key switch with socket

Position 1 indicates the body, 2 – keys, 3 – screw, 4 – cover, 6 – switch contacts.

Connection features

A switch with several keys and a socket is usually installed in one place - near the doors of the bathroom and toilet. The unit makes it possible to control lighting and connect an electric razor, hair dryer and other appliances used in the bathroom.

Connection diagram of a two-key switch block with a socket to power and loads

There are 5 connections made in the junction box (Fig. above). There is also a green grounding wire introduced here, going only to the socket. A lamp with metal parts also requires protection against electric shock. For this purpose, a screw connection is installed on the metal housing.

With a variety of models of a triple switch with a socket, the connection diagram remains the same (Fig. below). The unit is connected in the same way as single or double models. The power cable is connected everywhere to the input of the device, and the wires go from the contacts of the switch block to the lamps that match the number of its keys.

Schematic diagram of a triple switch with socket

The socket has a separate neutral wire and according to the diagram is not connected to the switch. They only have a common phase. All neutral wires from lamps and sockets are connected in the distribution box to the supply neutral. The phase is supplied to the common input contact of the switch. The contacts for the lighting sections are located on a separate block. From them, voltage is supplied to the light bulbs.

Before connecting, 10 mm of insulation is removed from the ends of the wires. To connect them, it is advisable to use NShVI lugs, which prevent the wire from breaking off when tightened with clamps.

The block is mounted in a wall niche using spacer legs or supports, after which a decorative frame is placed on top of it. The methods of attaching it can be very diverse.

Manufacturers

Many people choose triple switches for aesthetic reasons. If the room is decorated in an antique style, Fede models are suitable here. German Gira products have exquisite designs and are in great demand. Legrand models, horizontal or vertical, adapt well to the interior. Large selection switches are provided by ABB. Products are produced with LED backlight, adding functionality to aesthetics.

Combined switches are manufactured by the domestic manufacturer Kuntsevo-Electro. A block made of durable plastic is used for vertical installation in niches on the walls. The following models of triple switches with socket are available:

BELLA BKVR-039 – with a socket without a grounding contact (Fig. a below);
BELLA BKVR-212 – with red indicator light (Fig. b);
BELLA BKVR-036 – with a European socket equipped with protective curtains (Fig. c).

Three-gang switches with socket

The switches have the following characteristics: voltage 220 V, rated load current 10 A. Models with a rated current of 16 A and with a grounding contact are produced by NPO Elektrotekhnika (models BZVRzk-S “REONE”, BZVRzksh-S “REONE”).

Installing a socket. Video

You can learn in detail about installing sockets and replacing the combined unit BKVR-039 from the video below.

A triple switch with a socket is rarely used, but it is convenient when you need to control several light sources from one point where you need to connect electrical appliances. The unit is multifunctional and takes up little space, since three devices are combined in one.

Connecting a three-key switch is a little more complicated than a one-key switch. The difference is that it has three output contacts to the light bulbs. The block socket works as a separate device, and the neutral wire from the distribution box is connected to it, and the phase is connected through a jumper from the switch.

Hello, dear readers of the site. Connecting a three-key switch not much different from connecting a two-key one. The difference is that to operate a three-key switch, a fourth wire is added to the circuit, through which the phase from its third contact will be supplied to the lamps or some other load. That's basically all.

If you look at the connection of the switch from the reverse side, you can see in the figure that four wires go to it. One wire at a time (in this example blue) phase L comes on the switch, and on the other three (brown) L1, L2 And L3 the phase goes to the load.

On the sides of the switch contact block there are terminals for connecting phase wires. Input phase L is connected from the side of a single terminal, and the output phase L1, L2, L3 on the opposite side, where there are three such terminals.

Let's analyze the wiring diagram for connecting the switch.

Phase L 1 connects to the cable wire going to the switch. Arriving at the switch, the phase enters its lower input contact and is located on this contact constantly.

From the three upper output contacts of the switch, phase wires L1, L2, L3 the same cable goes into the junction box, where at points 2 , 3 , 4 connected to the cable wires going to the ceiling. Phase wires on the ceiling L1, L2, L3 connect to the brown terminals of the lamps HL1, HL2, HL3.

Zero N enters the junction box and at the point 5 connects to the cable wire going to the ceiling. On the ceiling, zero is connected to the blue terminals of the lamps, connected to one point, forming general conclusion.

Operation of the circuit with a three-key switch.

When you press, for example, the right key, the right contact closes and the phase wire L1 2 HL1 and the lamp lights up. Zero N (blue wire) for all lamps is general.

Remember. The phase reaches the upper contacts of the switch only when closing the contact of the corresponding key.

Now, when you press the middle key, the middle contact closes, and the phase is wired L2 enters the distribution box, where through a point 3 and the ceiling wire goes to the brown terminal of the lamp HL2 and the lamp lights up.

The left switch contact works in the same way. And when three keys are pressed simultaneously, all the chandelier lamps will light up.

Well, that’s basically all I wanted to say. And in addition to this article, I recommend reading the article about, which shows the principle of construction electrical diagram chandeliers for any number of lamps.
Good luck!

Man's desire to do living conditions comfortable leads to the emergence of new types of devices and mechanisms. One of them is a triple switch with a socket, which allows you to minimize the space occupied on the wall and make the life of the owner of an apartment (private house) more convenient.

In addition, this approach has several other advantages:

aesthetic appearance - there is only one control panel of keys with a socket on the wall;
saving time on laying cables during initial planning or repairs;
reduction in labor costs due to the installation of one niche for a switch socket instead of several.

Using a block of a triple pass-through switch, combined with a socket in one housing, will be appropriate for complex layouts - when several small rooms are nearby. For example, hallway, bathroom, toilet, kitchen, etc.

Installation of a triple switch in a niche in the wall is done using special supports or spacer tabs on the sides of the device. After securely fixing the device from above, it is closed with a decorative frame that can be attached in various ways, but most often - on small latches.

Set of tools and algorithm of work

To carry out repairs or install a new triple block pass-through switch, combined with a socket, you will need:

a flat or Phillips screwdriver - depending on the type of fastening screw heads;
stripper - a tool that removes insulation from wiring;
pliers, wire cutters;
knife, electrical tape.

The work algorithm as a whole includes the following points:

disassemble the switch so that you can later install it in a niche in the wall;
turn off the power supply to the repair or installation site;
determine the purpose of each of the existing terminals of the electrical appliance;
establish the connection points of all wires;
proceed directly to connecting the triple switch.

In order for the device to work correctly and without failures for a long time, perform all actions carefully, taking into account the connection diagram.

Having studied what was written above, you already know approximately how to connect a triple switch in the same housing with a socket. For everyone similar device you will need four single-core wires or a four-core cable. Sometimes you will see that there are two wires: a single wire "phase" and a three wire running through the junction box to the lights.

First, assemble the wires according to the connection diagram using self-clamping terminal blocks or using manual “twisting”. In this case, connect the zero from the output cable together with all the same wires from the lighting fixtures.

Secure the phase from the power cable to the common contact of the switch. You can determine which wire is which in the junction box visually or using special devices: tester or indicator screwdriver.

After these steps, there will remain three single-core wires from the switch mechanism and one phase from each of the incandescent light bulbs.

Please note: the connection diagram for such devices indicates that exactly what should be connected to the input terminal of the switch is phase cable from the mains, not zero. If even one mistake is made during installation, the safe operation of the triple switch is not guaranteed in this case.

In addition, there is a real risk of electric shock even when changing an incandescent light bulb, because all electrical wiring is constantly energized. That is, a minimal breakdown of the insulating layer in the absence of grounding of lighting lamps (luminaires) can lead to unpredictable consequences.

After installing a block of a triple pass-through switch combined with a socket, check its functionality. Turn on all the keys in turn - the lights should light up and turn off.

How to connect wires directly to a switch

The process may be slightly different depending on the model of the triple switch, but in general all actions are performed in the same way.

So, pull out the keys, remove the decorative frame and find the connection terminals. But remember that when doing these and all further work you need to be extremely careful and attentive to prevent damage to the new electrical appliance.

The cables in the switch mechanism are held in place by clamping screws, which you need to slightly unscrew before starting installation - for unhindered passage of the wires.

Please note that the triple switch connection diagram provides four cable terminals: three output and one input.

First you should determine the location of the common terminal where the phase will be supplied, and then you will see the terminals for each lighting section. As a rule, they are located to the side, on a separate block, or even placed on back side electrical appliance.

On each of the wires, you will need to remove no more than 7-10 mm of the insulating layer to prevent bare wires from touching the internal mechanism of the device.

Tighten the clamping screws tightly because there is no play allowed. And use special NShVI lugs if you use multi-core cables. This significantly reduces the risk of wire breaking while tightening it with screw clamps.

After completing all the steps, assemble the outer decorative frame of the triple switch in the reverse order.

The most important thing when installing any such device is to remember safety precautions when working with electrical appliances. Make sure there is no power before you begin disassembling the old switch.

Modern trends in lighting control systems are developing not only in the direction of comfortable operation and varied design, but also in increasing the level of efficiency. One such method is to use three-way switches that can control three groups of lighting fixtures from one access point.

The advantages of using a single three-circuit device are obvious. This is an aesthetic appearance, less labor-intensive laying of electrical cables to the connection point. Knocking out one technological niche in the wall to accommodate an installation box instead of several.

Such devices are used to illuminate rooms with complex configurations, long corridors, or control several rooms from one point: a bathroom, a bathroom and a hallway.

Lately, I have often been asked by mail and in the comments and asked for advice on such a seemingly ordinary device. Therefore, today we will examine in detail the topic of how to connect a three-key switch. P.S. in this example it is used three-gang switch schneider electric.

The three-key switch is subjected to more intensive use than other electrical switching equipment. The reliability of the device design must ensure average term service up to 10 years. Malfunctions that arise during operation can be divided into two categories:

- mechanical – associated with the breakdown of the external and internal elements of the case, springs, fasteners, erasing keys, etc.;
- electrical – loosening contact terminals in the electrical part of the mechanism, and, as a result, burning of cables and the entire device as a whole.

Any breakdowns that lead to a violation of the integrity of the device or its individual elements require replacement of the entire product.

Repair or replacement of switches, like any other electrical equipment, must be carried out by a specialist with the appropriate level of clearance. The room where repair work is carried out must be de-energized.

You can purchase such switches at any electrical goods store. , quite complicated at first glance, will also not present any particular problems after carefully reading the provided article.

Three-gang switch design

A large number of electrical equipment companies produce many models of switches. The devices have significant differences in external design and are slightly smaller in internal staff. However, the restrictions imposed by a standardized electrical wiring network in apartments force the use of switches with a limited number of switching sections in the control mechanism.

If it becomes possible to carry out a deep modernization of the electrical network, the use of triple switches will provide more flexible and economical control of lighting sources.

Connecting a three-key switch, in fact, is no different from connecting one or two keys.

One of the power cables is connected to the input of the switch, and the lighting cables are connected to the output contacts (to the corresponding contacts of the switching block).

The differences are in the number of contacts of the switching groups - one, two or three. The photograph shows the installation part of a simple, typical three-key switch.

The difference between the input contacts to which the phase is supplied and the output contacts to which the cables leading to the lighting lamps are connected is clearly visible. The neutral wires of each lamp are combined together and connected to the neutral wire in the box.

Installation of the three-key switch mechanism itself into the socket box is carried out using a support which is secured with screws or using special spacer tabs. After the switch mechanism is securely fixed, a decorative frame is installed on top, which is secured with latches.

Three-key switch connection diagram

The use of a triple switch is justified when there is a need to control a large number of lighting zones and/or multi-level lighting. This will make it possible not only to control energy consumption, but also to facilitate the technical implementation of design solutions in the room.

Where are they used?

Modern renovations and design solutions increasingly suggest dividing lighting into different groups.

For example, a room has a complex configuration - niches, projections, separation by partitions or curtains. Very often now large one-room apartments are divided into zones and made into so-called studios. In this case, a switch with three keys is ideal. By using specially designed and mounted zone lighting, you can highlight a work area where there will be a computer desk, a sofa, shelves with books, here the lighting is made brighter. The second zone is the sleeping area, where more subdued light is quite suitable. The third zone is the living room, where they stand coffee table, armchairs, TV, here the lighting can be combined.

When else is it advisable to use a three-key household switch?

If from one point it is necessary to control the lighting of three rooms at once, for example, a corridor, a toilet and a bathroom, when they are located close to each other.
In the case of combined lighting in the room - central and spot.
When in a large room, lighting is provided by a multi-arm chandelier.
If the room is installed multi-level ceiling from plasterboard sheets.
When the lighting of a long corridor is divided into three zones.

Advantages

From installing such a triple switch you will receive the following advantages:

Externally, one switch with three keys looks more compact and more aesthetically pleasing than three single ones.
Laying electrical wires to the connection point will be less expensive in terms of labor and money.
You will need to make one technological niche in the wall for the mounting box instead of three.
Economic effect. For example, if your chandelier has 3-4 light bulbs, then turning on a single-key switch ensures that all of them work at once, while consuming maximum electricity. But such illumination is not always necessary; dim light is sufficient. If you install a 3-key household switch for such a chandelier, then, if necessary, one or two lamps are turned on, thereby saving almost half of the electricity.

Species

Do not rush to connect a three-key switch until you decide exactly what kind of device you want to see in your apartment. After all, these switching devices come in several types:

Regular.
Walkthroughs. They are used in long corridors or on different floors, when at the entrance (at the beginning of the corridor or on the first floor) the lighting turns on one switch, and when leaving (at the end of the corridor or on the second floor) another switch turns off. That is, you don’t need to make your way in the dark and crawl along the wall with your hand to find the button of the switching device.
With indication. Such light beacons have two options for indicating the status of the device. Or they glow when the lights are off and thereby indicate in a dark room where the switching device is located. Or vice versa, the beacons light up when the keys are turned on, thereby making it clear where exactly in at the moment the light is on.
Three-key switch with socket. They are most often used in rooms where a toilet, bathroom and corridor are located nearby.

How to choose?

Nowadays there is such a huge range of switches on the electrical goods market that you can find a suitable model and color for any design solution or interior. However, you understand perfectly well that shade and appearance are far from the main indicators that you should pay attention to when choosing a device. When purchasing a three-key switch, check the following:

Availability of modern self-clamping terminals, they are more convenient to use. Simply insert the wire into the hole and it will immediately be fixed.
The outer side of the product is without burrs, scratches or damage.
Normal operation of all terminals; they must ensure reliable fixation of the wire cores.
The keys do not stick when pressed (on or off) and work clearly, with a clearly audible characteristic click.
On the reverse side there should be a connection diagram for the triple switch.

Try to avoid cheap Chinese electrical wiring products. Buy devices from trusted companies and manufacturers.

Design

There are no special differences in the design of these switches. The principle of operation is the same as for two- or one-key ones.

Let's consider the main elements of the switching device.

Keys and frame, so-called protective elements. For their manufacture, special heat-resistant plastic is used. The keys directly turn the switch on and off.

The operating mechanism, or actuator, that operates the keys. The frame is connected to the working mechanism with special latches or screws. This entire assembled structure is mounted in an installation box and fixed in it with special spacers.

The connected three-key device must have four contacts - one to connect the power supply wire, three more will connect the switch to the lighting elements. The material for contacts is usually copper; the size varies depending on the cross-section of the wire and the connected load.

The use of this type of switches is more intensive than others, so their average service life is from 8 to 10 years. There can be two main reasons why a device may fail:

Mechanical - the fastening elements were damaged, the housing collapsed.
Electrical - damage to contacts.

If there is a breakdown, do not try to replace any components in a three-key switch; the device should be replaced completely. It would be better if this is done by a professional electrician in compliance with all safety rules. Although if you are well acquainted with electrical engineering, have skills in working with power tools, and understand what “phase” and “zero” are, it will not be difficult for you to do this yourself.

Installation and connection

Let's talk a little about how to properly install the device in question. But first of all, about the tools. You must have:

flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
a stripper so that you can remove the insulation, or a knife;
pliers;
electrical tape or clamps.

A two-wire wire (phase and neutral) comes from the power supply to the distribution box, which is installed in the room.

There should be four wires going to the switch. One is a phase from the power supply (it comes from the distribution box) and three phase wires from lighting fixtures.

The three-key device has 4 contact units:

input contact, the supply phase must be connected to it;
three more contacts; the phase conductors of the wires going to the lighting devices are connected to them.

The neutral conductors of the wires going to the lamps must be connected in the distribution box to the neutral wire of the supply network.

When you connect a phase to the input contact of the switch, do not confuse it with the neutral wire. The switching device must break exactly the phase, and not the zero. Otherwise, when replacing lamps in luminaires, you risk getting energized.

Now some practical steps:

Before connecting the triple switch, ensure that the power is completely disconnected. Turn off the input machine that is installed at the entrance to the apartment. This is an important condition for any work related to electricity.
There is a connection diagram on the back of the switch. According to it, connect the phase wires from the power supply and from the lighting fixtures. The contacts are made with self-clamping terminals, so all you have to do is fix the wires in them.
After this, the switch is secured in the installation box using clamping screws. All that remains is to secure the keys and frame on top.
Connections in the junction box can be made by twisting. The wire coming from the switch to the lamp is connected to the phase wire of this lighting device. A small part of the wires is stripped, twisted together with pliers, after which the contact is insulated using a special tape. Everything can be simplified if you use modern clamps. Do the same with the remaining two pairs of wires. And in exactly the same way they connect the neutral wires of three lighting fixtures to the network neutral.
It remains to check the connected switch. Turn on introductory machine to the apartment and alternately pressing the keys of the mounted switching device, check whether the lamps of the lamps light up.

A device with which you can control three independent lamps is undoubtedly a very successful and profitable invention of mankind. But still, before you connect the switch, evaluate your knowledge and strength. There are times when it is better to trust the professionals.