0
You can buy dimmable compact fluorescent bulbs at virtually any hardware store these days. Just make sure that the package says that they're dimmable. They're quite a bit more expensive than either standard incandescents or regular compact fluorescents, but they'll save you money over the standard incandescent bulbs in a pretty short time period as well as lasting 10-12 times longer. You certainly do not need to buy any expensive specialized dimmer switches to do this.
incorrect, there IS a special dimmer for dimmable CFLs and LEDs. yes, you do need to make sure you get dimmable leds or cfls. but you DO need the right dimmer.
What else can I help you with?
Will it damage a compact fluorescent bulb if one has a dimmer switch but keeps the dimmer set as high as possible?
Fluorescent bulbs can't be dimmed. It takes a certain amount of electricity to get them to come on. Probably about half way on the switch. As long as it has that much it should light. The switch however doesn't like it and will burn out quicker than with regular bulbs. The bulb doesn't care, it is either lit or not. Thanks. I just went ahead and installed a standard light switch. Everything is working fine and energy efficient. ~ CheeseKing
What is the type of lamp uses with dimmer switch?
You cannot use most fluorescent lights with a dimmer. Just about any incandescent bulb WILL work with a dimmer. Occasionally, when a halogen bulb burns out, it will destroy a dimmer switch but halogen bulbs are considered incandescent and other than that little problem they work well with a dimmer.
How many bulbs can a dimmer switch?
The number of bulbs a dimmer switch can control depends on the wattage rating of the dimmer switch and the individual bulbs. Consult the dimmer switch's specifications to determine the maximum total wattage it can handle, and then ensure the combined wattage of the bulbs you intend to use does not exceed this limit.
How can I adjust the brightness of my LED bulbs using a dimmer switch?
To adjust the brightness of LED bulbs using a dimmer switch, make sure the dimmer switch is compatible with LED bulbs. Install the dimmer switch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then, use the dimmer switch to adjust the brightness by turning the knob or sliding the switch up or down. LED bulbs may have a minimum and maximum dimming level, so adjust within that range to avoid flickering or damage to the bulbs.
What wattage dimmer switch should you use?
Remember that dimmers are for incandescent lights only unless you invest BIG BUCKS on dimmable fluorescent lights and fluorescent dimmers. Make sure that the switch that you replace with the dimmer does not control a plug-in outlet unless it is a lamp. You could do harm to an appliance not designed for such use. Otherwise,just add up the wattage of all the bulbs on the dimmer and buy one of the next size rating. So if you have two 60 watt bulbs, two 75 watt bulbs-- that's 270 watts total.Find a dimmer rated for 300 watts or more.
Do you need a special switch for CFL?
Yes, it is recommended to use a special dimmer switch that is compatible with CFL bulbs. Regular dimmer switches may not work effectively with CFL bulbs and can cause flickering or buzzing noises. Look for a dimmer switch that is specifically labeled as compatible with CFL bulbs.
Why do halogen bulbs flicker on a dimmer?
Halogen bulbs flicker on a dimmer because dimmer switches are designed for use with incandescent bulbs, not halogen bulbs. The electrical properties of halogen bulbs, such as their lower resistance when dimmed, can cause flickering when used with dimmer switches not specifically designed for them. Upgrading to a dimmer switch that is compatible with halogen bulbs can help eliminate the flickering.
Can you put a dimmer switch on compact fluorescent light bulbs?
I have but if dimmer is on low the light fixture sometimes "hums", can be anoying It also shortens the bulb life, significantly in some cases. But their are also CFL bulbs built to be used with a dimmer switch that avoid these problems.Another AnswerYou should only use CFLs specifically-designed to be used with dimmers in circuits controlled by dimmer switches. There is a proven danger of fire hazard when ordinary CFLs are controlled by dimmer switches and, so, this should NEVER be done.
Can a dimmer switch be added on any light?
Not all lights can be dimmed with a dimmer switch. Only lights that use dimmable bulbs or are compatible with dimmable fixtures can be controlled with a dimmer switch. It's important to check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure compatibility.
Can a dimmer switch cause lights to flicker?
Yes, a dimmer switch can cause lights to flicker if not compatible with the type of bulbs being used or if the dimmer switch is malfunctioning. Flickering can also occur if the wiring connections are loose or damaged. It is recommended to use dimmer switches that are specifically designed for the type of bulbs being used to prevent flickering.
How can I adjust the brightness of the light on my ceiling fan using a dimmer switch?
To adjust the brightness of the light on your ceiling fan using a dimmer switch, you can install a compatible dimmer switch designed for use with the type of light bulbs in your fan. Simply replace the existing switch with the dimmer switch and use the controls to adjust the brightness to your desired level.
Why would a dimmer switch buzz with a compact fluorescent bulb?
Most compact fluorescent lamps won't work with conventional dimmers, or will damage the dimmer.Magnetic dimmers will work, however. AnswerActually, it depends on the design of the lamp. Different companies have different power supplies for the lamps. What works well on one can spell instant death for another. Get a dimmable lamp. The new LED lamps have the same problem. Some work fine with a dimmer, provided one incandescent lamp is left in the fixture. Others go crazy.
