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Although a dimmer can be designed for 12 v halogen lamps it is more common for dimmers to work on higher voltages. Dimmers have to work into a resistive load so it is not usually possible to place the dimmer on the high-voltage side of the 12 v transformer that comes with the lights.

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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 a combination of halogen and incandescent fixtures?

Yes, you can use a dimmer switch with a combination of halogen and incandescent fixtures. However, it's essential to make sure that the dimmer switch is compatible with both types of bulbs to avoid any potential issues such as flickering or buzzing. Additionally, double-check the wattage rating of the dimmer switch to ensure it can handle the combined load of the fixtures.


Can you put a dimmer switch rheostat on a halogen light fixture?

Halogen lamps that run at line voltage (regular house wiring - 120V AC) work the same as incandescent bulbs on dimmer switches. But, if the light fixture is running off a transformer, then it is important to find out if the transformer is dimmable, as some low-voltage fixtures cannot be dimmed. If dimable, 12-volt or 24-volt Halogen lighting fixtures require special dimmers (Low-Voltage Dimmers). There are two types of transformers for low-voltage lighting (Magnetic (MLV) or Electronic (ELV)). Magnetic transformer use copper, wound around a steel core which is inductive (magnetic field). Electronic transformer is an electronic circuitry which is capacitive (electric field). Before selecting a dimmer, determine what type of ballast is in the lighting fixture. Magnetic low-voltage dimmers are rated in volt-ampere (VA). The wattage rating is provided only as a reference and indicates the lamp wattage that can be used. Electronic low-voltage dimmers are rated in watts, which is also the lamp load connected to the transformer.


How much voltage loss with a dimmer switch when used for lights?

The voltage loss from using a dimmer switch varies depending on the type of dimmer and the settings used. In most cases, a standard dimmer switch can introduce a voltage drop of around 5-20% when dimming the lights. This reduction in voltage helps regulate the amount of current flowing to the light fixture, allowing for variable brightness levels.


Why does dimmer switch cause ceiling light to make noise?

Dimmer switches control the amount of electricity flowing to the light fixture by rapidly turning the power on and off. This rapid cycling can cause the light fixture to vibrate or emit a buzzing sound, especially if the light fixture is not compatible with the dimmer switch. Upgrading to a dimmer switch designed for the specific type of light fixture can help reduce or eliminate the noise.

Related Questions

How does a light dimmer switch work to adjust the brightness of a light fixture?

A light dimmer switch works by controlling the amount of electricity flowing to the light fixture. By adjusting the voltage, the dimmer switch can increase or decrease the brightness of the light.


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 a combination of halogen and incandescent fixtures?

Yes, you can use a dimmer switch with a combination of halogen and incandescent fixtures. However, it's essential to make sure that the dimmer switch is compatible with both types of bulbs to avoid any potential issues such as flickering or buzzing. Additionally, double-check the wattage rating of the dimmer switch to ensure it can handle the combined load of the fixtures.


Why did your halogen lamp stop working when plugged into a dimmer switch on a cord?

It was not designed to be used with a dimmer switch. You must have a halogen designed for use with a dimmer or it will not work.


Can you put a dimmer switch rheostat on a halogen light fixture?

Halogen lamps that run at line voltage (regular house wiring - 120V AC) work the same as incandescent bulbs on dimmer switches. But, if the light fixture is running off a transformer, then it is important to find out if the transformer is dimmable, as some low-voltage fixtures cannot be dimmed. If dimable, 12-volt or 24-volt Halogen lighting fixtures require special dimmers (Low-Voltage Dimmers). There are two types of transformers for low-voltage lighting (Magnetic (MLV) or Electronic (ELV)). Magnetic transformer use copper, wound around a steel core which is inductive (magnetic field). Electronic transformer is an electronic circuitry which is capacitive (electric field). Before selecting a dimmer, determine what type of ballast is in the lighting fixture. Magnetic low-voltage dimmers are rated in volt-ampere (VA). The wattage rating is provided only as a reference and indicates the lamp wattage that can be used. Electronic low-voltage dimmers are rated in watts, which is also the lamp load connected to the transformer.


Can you install a dimmer switch on any light fixture?

No, you cannot install a dimmer switch on any light fixture. The fixture must be compatible with a dimmer switch and the switch must be rated for the type of light bulb being used. It is recommended to consult a professional electrician for proper installation.


How much voltage loss with a dimmer switch when used for lights?

The voltage loss from using a dimmer switch varies depending on the type of dimmer and the settings used. In most cases, a standard dimmer switch can introduce a voltage drop of around 5-20% when dimming the lights. This reduction in voltage helps regulate the amount of current flowing to the light fixture, allowing for variable brightness levels.


Is it possible to install a dimmer switch on any light fixture?

No, it is not possible to install a dimmer switch on any light fixture. Some fixtures may not be compatible with dimmer switches due to the type of bulb or wiring used. It is important to check the compatibility of the fixture before attempting to install a dimmer switch.


Are halogen lights able to be put on a dimmer switch?

Yes. There are various types of dimmers. Look for the halogen dimmer in your favorite search engine.


How does a 3 way dimmer light switch work to control the brightness of a light fixture in a room?

A 3-way dimmer light switch works by adjusting the amount of electricity flowing to the light fixture. This allows you to control the brightness of the light by increasing or decreasing the voltage. The switch has three terminals that connect to the power source, the light fixture, and another switch. By toggling the switch up or down, you can adjust the brightness of the light in the room.


Why does dimmer switch cause ceiling light to make noise?

Dimmer switches control the amount of electricity flowing to the light fixture by rapidly turning the power on and off. This rapid cycling can cause the light fixture to vibrate or emit a buzzing sound, especially if the light fixture is not compatible with the dimmer switch. Upgrading to a dimmer switch designed for the specific type of light fixture can help reduce or eliminate the noise.


Can a single pole switch can be use as a dimmer?

No, a single pole switch is not designed to function as a dimmer. Dimmer switches are specifically designed to control the amount of electrical current flowing to a light fixture, allowing for adjustable brightness levels. Using a single pole switch as a dimmer may cause damage to the switch, light fixture, or both.