I just want to change a lite switch

[juliedealer]

Like most people I am scared to electricity!

The building is only 9 years old. Hardware guy sold me 3-way switch with ground to replace existing switches.

The lite in the hall can be turned on from 2 places. Old switches have 2 silver and one copper screw (no ground) the word COM is stamped next to the copper. The copper screw has a black wire, the 2 silver have one black and one white.

New switch has 2 brass colored screws, one black and one green. The black has the word COMMON next to it. Is old copper screw now the new black screw?

I think there is a bare copper wire in the box, just want to confirm that this is “ground”. Is there a reason the ground wasn’t used? Can I go ahead and use the ground?

thanks
Julie

[Unregistered-Rocket Scientist (non-moderator)]

*** Is old copper screw now the new black screw? ***

Yes, common is still common. The other 2 wires (travelers)on the silver screws on the old switch can go on either of the brass screws on the new switch.

***Can I go ahead and use the ground?***

Yes

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