DIYbanter - View Single Post - 3 way switch. 2 switches 2 recessed lights in the hall way

Oren[_2_]

On Thu, 30 Jan 2014 13:55:14 -0800 (PST),
wrote:

If so, put the wires on the screws.

but that could cause it to shorten?

Back stabbed connections are not reliable in my experience. For
example, my wife always used the same wall receptacle to plug the iron
in. One day I plugged something in and witnessed a bright spark. The
outlet was back stabbed - push in connection. My understanding is the
connections are not reliable. Poor connection verses the screw down
way. Those experienced here can better explain it to you. Poor
connection; causes heat and more likely to fail.

Anytime I find a back stabbed connection I promptly move the wires to
the screws and snug it down - better contact. Back stabbed is just a
copper blade inside the switch.

Black wire on the gold screw, white wire on the silver screw.

Back stabs are a short cut for the electrician - avoid it.