I have two rows of recessed lights in my kitchen. Both rows are controlled by two different wall switches. Each wall switch turns on both rows at the same time. I want to separate the two rows of lights such that one wall switch controls row A and the other wall switch controls row B. What is the simplest way to do this?

I'd bet a dollar that you cannot do this without serious re-wiring. OK, $100.

Is there an attic above this room?

Depending on how they are wired, you may be able to, especially if done in conduit, you would likely have to remove the center can assembly, which will give access to the can's
Box of connections.
4" cans will be tough. hopefully you have 6" cans. If real luckk and in conduit, you may be able to add a second switch at both locations and have 3 way switching on both sets.

It would be easier to leave one row on the 3-ways switches, and add another switch and switch leg for the other row.
Getting to the other row will be the challenge.

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Originally Posted by stanfortyman

I'd bet a dollar that you cannot do this without serious re-wiring. OK, $100.

Is there an attic above this room?

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No, there is no attic. This is a condo unit. Since there are 2 wall switches that both control both sets of lights, is it not possible to isolate the rows at the wall switch wiring?

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Originally Posted by stanfortyman

I'd bet a dollar that you cannot do this without serious re-wiring. OK, $100.

Is there an attic above this room?

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I have to agree. I think it's likely that the cans are wired with a pair of wires (and a ground) running between cans.

I think that if you really want to do this, you'll have to remove the drywall from the ceiling, rewire the circuit, and replace the drywall. If there's no attic above, then running wires without removing the drywall will be nearly impossible.

Since this is a Condo, it likely has conduit?
And, are these 6" cans?
I don't see a need to tear up drywall yet.
Also, if the 2 current switch locations have a 4 X 4" Box with a single gang Mudring, you can carefully cut drywall and remove the single gang, install two 2 gang Mudrings and have 3 way switching for both sets.
If done carefully, there will be no damage to fix, Wallplate is slightly larger then Mudring.

Do you own this condo and is there a Home owners Association to who you pay fees? This can make a big difference in how this is repaired.

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Originally Posted by ballengerb1

Do you own this condo and is there a Home owners Association to who you pay fees? This can make a big difference in how this is repaired.

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Yes I own the condo and yes I pay a monthly fee for certain utilities and amenities

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Originally Posted by aljack

No, there is no attic. This is a condo unit. Since there are 2 wall switches that both control both sets of lights, is it not possible to isolate the rows at the wall switch wiring?

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No, not at all likely.
A wire runs from one of the switches to one light, then from there to all the other lights. The fact that they are in two rows is purely coincidental. It has nothing to do with the way they are wired.


I seriously doubt there is conduit. VERY seriously doubt. Unless maybe you are in Fla or Ill..

Most condos or townhouses are owned by the occupant. They are responsible for everything inside while the community is responsible for everything outside.
That said, it is most likely that you MUST use approved licensed and insured contractors to do any work.

aljack, check with your association before doing any work. Most condos you own the surface of the drywall in, behind that surface is considered common property. The space between you and the next condo may not be your property so check, they may give you an OK but check first.

Perito, so why give me a reddie if you liked my answer? There was nothing "Inaccurate" but that's what you clicked. What's up with that?

I saw that but was not allowed to give you a balancer yet.

I think it was just a "typo".