2 way switch - top & bottom of stairs

sionevans · Aug 6, 2023

How should I wire a two way switch, so that I can switch it “on” at the bottom of stairs and “off” at the bottom of the stairs?

It is currently switching “on” and “off” using the right hand switch on the 2 gang switch - my preferred setup would be use the left hand switch.

However, the switch at the top of the stairs it not doing anything.

I have attached pictures of the back of each switch and the current wiring setup.

For context, I am DIY / Homeowner and currently replacing modern Lightwave switches, with older style MK switches.

[ElectriciansForums.net] 2 way switch - top & bottom of stairs

littlespark · Aug 7, 2023

What’s all the spare cable rolled up in back of single gang?
If it’s the other end of the brown/black/ grey 3 core, I’d get it tested to see if it’s damaged. Only reason for it not to be used.

Be careful, as there may be two circuits present at the two gang switch.

Let me get this straight…. You are replacing newer switches with old MK?
Any reason why?

I’d say any old switch that vintage could have problems due to previous wear and tear.

timhoward · Aug 7, 2023

littlespark said:
If it’s the other end of the brown/black/ grey 3 core, I’d get it tested to see if it’s damaged. Only reason for it not to be used.

If he's changing smart switching to traditional, it may be the 3 core wasn't required while it was 'smart'.

littlespark · Aug 7, 2023

Noted. I didn’t pick up where it said “Lightwave”

DPG · Aug 7, 2023

Not sure I'd be happy using those old switches. I know they were good quality when new, but those contacts will have had a hell of a lot of wear over the 60ish years of use. Dirt and grime may also have got in.

Some of these that are still in use have quite a slow action and don't make and break quickly at all.

sionevans · Aug 7, 2023

timhoward said:
If he's changing smart switching to traditional, it may be the 3 core wasn't required while it was 'smart'.

littlespark said:
What’s all the spare cable rolled up in back of single gang?
If it’s the other end of the brown/black/ grey 3 core, I’d get it tested to see if it’s damaged. Only reason for it not to be used.

Be careful, as there may be two circuits present at the two gang switch.

Let me get this straight…. You are replacing newer switches with old MK?
Any reason why?

I’d say any old switch that vintage could have problems due to previous wear and tear.

The cables rolled up at the back of each switch were there from the previous home owner, in place with the previous switch (which was operational).

Yes, my current project is replacing modern Lightwave switches and sockets with older MK 60’s switches - because I prefer the way they look in my house.

These are mostly in very good condition, the 1 gang, two way switch is I believe ‘dead stock’, never used it, like new.

ipf · Aug 7, 2023

sionevans said:
These are mostly in very good condition, the 1 gang, two way switch is I believe ‘dead stock’, never used it, like new.

The 2gang looks a bit rough, though.

ipf · Aug 7, 2023

It needs a bit of looking into.
As said previously, no link between switches indicates that two circuits are involved, upstairs and down, maybe? Perhaps not.
There are questions which can't be answered on here with certainty. Spark required for tracing circuits.
The connection methods look suspect...but can't be sure.