A dimmer switch can be installed anywhere that an existing on or off switch is in place. Replacing the current toggle switch with a dimmer switch will allow you to change the lights’ brightness, so long as you are using a light bulb that is compatible with the dimmer you have chosen.
What dimmer switch do I need for LED lights?
Trailing edge dimmers work best with LED light bulbs and leading-edge dimmers work best with traditional incandescent and halogen light bulbs.
What are the different types of dimmer switches?
Most dimmers fall into these four bulb type categories:
- Incandescent and halogen bulbs.
- Dimmable compact fluorescent light bulbs.
- Magnetic Low Frequency (MLV)
- Electronic Low Frequency (ELV)
Is a dimmer switch wired the same as a normal switch?
Unlike standard switches, most dimmer switches have wire leads that are connected to the circuit wires with wire connectors, rather than using screw terminal connections. Back view of single-pole dimmer switch.
Can you dim lights with a smart plug?
Yes, a smart plug can be used to dim the lights but it must be a specialized, dimmable smart plug. The best dimmable smart plug is the Z-Wave Plus Smart Light Dimmer Plug. You’ll also want to ensure the bulb you are dimming is capable of being dimmed (preferably NOT a Compact fluorescent light bulb).
How can I tell what type of dimmer switch I have?
Determine the number of switches that control the light group. If only one switch controls the light, purchase a single-pole dimmer. If two switches control a single light or a group of lights, you will need a 3-way dimmer. Then look at the bulb type you are going to be using and pick the right type of dimmer.
How many LED lights can be put on a dimmer switch?
A good rule of thumb is to allow 100W for each LED fixture so in this case, the 600W dimmer can handle only six LED fixtures. If you are meeting all of the electrical requirements of the dimmer and you are still having flicker issues, you can try adjusting the low-end trim.
How do I know what type of dimmer I have?
Are all dimmer switches the same?
Dimmers all perform the same function, altering the illumination produced by the attached fixtures, but there are many types of dimmer switch controls. These traditional switches have a rotating knob that controls the light level. Many of these dimmers are similar to toggle controls.
