How to Install Leviton 14:53 Decorah 50 603 and Renew RE 153 3-Way Switches: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 21/03/2025

Upgrading your home's lighting control can significantly enhance both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Three-way switches, like the Leviton 1453 Decorah 50 603 and Renew RE 153, offer versatile control, allowing you to manage lights from two different locations. Installing these switches, however, requires a certain level of electrical knowledge and careful attention to safety procedures. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a curious homeowner tackling your first electrical project, understanding the proper installation process is crucial for achieving a successful and safe outcome.

This comprehensive guide provides a clear and detailed step-by-step approach to installing both the Leviton and Renew three-way switches, ensuring you can confidently complete the project without compromising safety. From turning off the power and identifying wires to connecting the switches and testing the installation, we’ll walk you through every stage of the process, leaving you with perfectly functioning and stylish light switches. Let's get started with the detailed instructions below!

Safety Guidelines

  • Always turn off the power at the breaker box before working with any electrical wiring. Failure to do so can result in serious injury or death.
  • Verify the power is off using a non-contact voltage tester before touching any wires. The breaker may be faulty.
  • If you are uncomfortable working with electrical wiring, consult a qualified electrician. Improper wiring can lead to fire hazards and electrical shock.

Methods: Wiring Leviton 3-Way Switches

Tools Needed

  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Philips head screwdriver
  • Electrician's pliers
  • Wire stripper
  • Electrical tape
  • Handheld voltage tester

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Safety First: Power Off and Verification

    • Turn off the power at the circuit breaker and verify with a voltage tester.
    Turn off the power at the circuit breaker and verify with a voltage tester.
    Safety First: Power Off and Verification

  2. Identify and Label Hot Wire

    • Identify the hot wire using the voltage tester with the breaker ON. Label the hot wire with electrical tape.
    Identify the hot wire using the voltage tester with the breaker ON. Label the hot wire with electrical tape.
    Identify and Label Hot Wire

  3. Prepare Wiring

    • Prepare the wires; ensure they are straight and stripped according to the gauge on the device.
    Prepare the wires; ensure they are straight and stripped according to the gauge on the device.
    Prepare Wiring

  4. Wire the Switch (Loop Method)

    • Loop the hot wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the black terminal screw. Tighten firmly.
    • Loop one traveler wire clockwise 3/4 turn around one brass terminal screw. Tighten firmly.
    • Loop the remaining traveler wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the other brass terminal screw. Tighten firmly.
    • Loop the ground wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the green screw. Tighten firmly.
    Loop the ground wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the green screw. Tighten firmly.Loop the ground wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the green screw. Tighten firmly.Loop the ground wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the green screw. Tighten firmly.Loop the ground wire clockwise 3/4 turn around the green screw. Tighten firmly.
    Wire the Switch (Loop Method)

  5. Install the Switch

    • Mount the device in the wall box using the provided mounting screws.
    Mount the device in the wall box using the provided mounting screws.
    Install the Switch

  6. Restore Power and Test

    • Restore power at the circuit breaker.
    • Test the switches by operating them several times at both locations to ensure the lights turn on and off correctly.
    Test the switches by operating them several times at both locations to ensure the lights turn on and off correctly.Test the switches by operating them several times at both locations to ensure the lights turn on and off correctly.
    Restore Power and Test

Tips

  • If unsure about any part of the installation, contact an electrician.
  • Wire colors may vary; the hot wire may be black or red, and the ground wire may be green or bare copper.
  • For circuits with 12-gauge solid copper or copper-clad wires, use terminal screws instead of quick wire terminals.

Read more: How to Repair Damaged Power Cords: The Ultimate Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Wire Connections

Reason: Mixing up the traveler wires, common wires, or power wires can lead to the switches not working correctly or even causing electrical hazards.
Solution: Carefully double-check the wiring diagram and ensure each wire is connected to the correct terminal on both switches.

2. Ignoring Existing Wiring

Reason: Not understanding or accounting for the existing wiring (especially in older homes) can result in incompatibility issues or even short circuits.
Solution: Thoroughly examine the existing wiring, identify the correct hot, neutral, and ground wires, and carefully plan your connections to avoid conflicts.

FAQs

What's the difference between the Leviton Decora 50 603 and the Renew RE 153 3-way switches?
The Leviton Decora 50 603 and Renew RE 153 are both 3-way switches, meaning they control a light from two different locations. However, they differ in style and features. The Decora typically has a more modern, sleek design, while the Renew line often offers a more traditional look. They might also have slight variations in features like dimming capabilities or smart home integration options; check the product specifications for specifics.
How do I know which wires go where in a 3-way switch installation?
Wiring 3-way switches is more complex than single-pole switches. You'll have three or more wires at each switch location (usually black, red, white, and ground). It's crucial to carefully identify the existing wiring before disconnecting anything. Use a voltage tester to ensure power is off. Consult a wiring diagram specific to your switch models, or seek professional help if unsure. Improper wiring can lead to electrical hazards.