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    Kristakh's Avatar
    Kristakh Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Feb 13, 2011, 02:34 PM
    Dual Light Switch won't control lights separately only simultaneously. Help!
    It is an older house. I have 3 separate black wires and a bundle of white wires tied together inside the box. It is supposed to control a patio light and a kitchen light on the 2 switches on the dual switch, but they either both turn on or both turn off.

    Thank you.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #2

    Feb 13, 2011, 03:00 PM
    You need to look at the back of the dual switch. One side is marked Line. There is also a small brass tab connecting the 2 line screws. This allows you to have 1 power lead and 2 out leads, or with the tab removed, 2 power leads and 2 out leads. Since you have 3 blacks, it appears you have 1 in and 2 out. Using a neon tester or VOM, find out which black lead is the power in. Connect that to the Line side. Connect the other 2 blacks to the 2 terminals on the other side of the switch. Whites stay bundled. Let us know how it works out.
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