3-Way Switch Problem

[1114]

Need some expert advice, I had a 3-way switch that quit working and am trying to diagnose the issue.

Details:

- There are 2 banks (we'll call them bank A and B) of switches on either end of my kitchen. Each bank contains 3, 3-way switches all controlling the same group of lights (overhead, undercabinet and ambient).

- It was set up so that you could turn on or off any of the three lights from either bank.

- New wiring was installed 3 years ago by an electrician and has worked flawlessly until yesterday. He switched jobs and I no longer have his contact info, otherwise I'd go straight to the source.

- The switch for the overhead light on bank A won't turn ON the lights but, if you've already turned them on with the other switch from bank B, it will turn them OFF. That same switch on bank B is functioning fine. All other switches are working as expected.

My question is what would cause one 3-way switch to begin functioning incorrectly? Faulty switch? Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

[220/221]

IF the switches have always worked properly and IF there has been no work done, it is a faulty switch.

When you replace it, make sure you mark the wire that is on the common terminal (the dark colored screw) or you will be back asking "What did I do wrong?"

[jadnashua]

ANything mechanical eventually breaks...sounds like it's time for a new switch.