How to Wire a Two Way Toggle Switch in Antique Brass

By Plank Hardware | Decorative details for discerning spaces. | Published: 2026-10-22

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to wire a two way toggle switch in antique brass, including step-by-step instructions for the MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Switch. Perfect for controlling lights from two locations.

Quick Answer

To wire a two way toggle switch in antique brass, you need a compatible toggle module and a pair of switches wired in a specific configuration. The MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Switch simplifies this with its modular design.

Understanding Two Way Switching

Two way switching allows you to control a single light from two separate locations, such as at the top and bottom of a staircase. This requires two switches wired together with three-core cable between them. The MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Switch is designed for this purpose, with a smooth action and antique brass finish that complements traditional and contemporary interiors.

Safety First

Always turn off the mains power at the consumer unit before starting any electrical work. Use a voltage tester to confirm the circuit is dead. If you are not confident working with mains electricity, hire a qualified electrician.

Step-by-Step Wiring Instructions

Prepare the Cables: Run a three-core cable (brown, black, grey, and earth) between the two switch positions. At each switch location, strip the outer sheath and individual wires by about 10 mm. Common mistake: mixing up the three-core colors. Label each wire with tape to avoid confusion.
Wire the First Switch: Connect the brown wire to the common terminal (C) of the MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Module. Connect the black wire to terminal L1 and the grey wire to terminal L2. Ensure the earth wire is connected to the earth terminal. Checkpoint: the module terminals are clearly marked – double-check you have the correct wires on C, L1, and L2.
Wire the Second Switch: At the second switch location, connect the brown wire to the common terminal (C) of the second MAXWELL module. Connect the black wire to L1 and the grey wire to L2. Earth wire to earth terminal. Common mistake: reversing L1 and L2 on the second switch will cause the switches to work in opposite directions – both up or both down to turn the light on.
Connect the Light and Power: At the light fitting, connect the switched live (brown wire from the second switch's common terminal) to the live terminal of the light. Connect the neutral and earth as per the light fitting instructions. Finally, connect the first switch's common terminal to the live supply from the consumer unit. Checkpoint: ensure all connections are tight and no bare wires are exposed. Use a continuity tester to verify the circuit before turning on the power.
Test and Install the Plate: Turn the mains power back on and test the switches. The light should turn on and off from both locations independently. If it works, turn off the power again and fit the switch modules into your chosen faceplate, then secure the plate to the wall. Common mistake: overtightening the faceplate screws can crack the plate – tighten until snug, then a quarter turn more.

Product Used in This Guide

MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Switch - Antique Brass: Control a light from one or two locations with our Smooth Two Way Toggle Detail and Module. Pair with a plate of your choice. This modular design means you can install the toggle switch with any compatible faceplate, giving you flexibility in style while ensuring reliable two way switching.
MAXWELL Smooth Two Way Toggle Switch - Antique Brass