How Do Dimmer Light Switches Work?
You probably already know that dimmer light
switches allow you to increase and decrease the
intensity of a bulb, but there is a little more to these
energy-saving devices than that.
For instance, there are actually 6 types of dimmer switch:
Low Voltage Dimmer – Only for use with in lighting systems with a
12-volt transformer. An
everyday incandescent dimmer will simply not work, if you’re trying
to use it on a low-voltage
system. You shouldn’t try to force it either – it can dangerously
overheat your transformer.
Toggle Dimmer Switch – This type of dimmer switch has a digital
touch pad for controlling the
illumination level.
“Smart” Dimmer Switch – Uses a standard rocker switch to toggle on
and off. The light will
slowly fade, when you have flipped it off. (Many older people like
this option, because it gives
them enough light to leave the room safely without fumbling in the
dark.)
Cord Dimmer Switch – Use this type if you’re seeking “variable
level” lighting. It’s easy to
install – just plug the dimmer cord into a receptacle, then plug
your lamp into the back end of
the dimmer plug. You can then control your lamp with the dimmer, as
soon as the lamp has
been switched on.
Just tuck the dimmer into a convenient spot behind the lamp – or in
any place that is easy to
reach and out of the way.
Touch Point Dimmer Switch - This type of dimmer switch is highly
sensitive, responding to
your finger on a switch pad. The positioning of your finger on the
pad controls the lighting. It
comes with a built-in LED locator and brightness indicator.
Rheostat – This is one of the earlier types of dimmer switch,
commonly seen. It’s possible to
replace any single pole switch with one – but do make sure you use
the correct dimmer for the
load type.
What is a “single pole” switch? A traditional household flip switch,
with 2 terminals. Its
function is simplistic – it has 2 positions: on and off.
The Advantages Of Dimmer Switches
In addition to saving a surprising amount of electricity, dimmer
switches can help you replace
light bulbs less often. They also create a mood, and provide
relaxing illumination.
When we think of dimmer switches, we think of dramatically reduced
lighting – but the truth
is, a dimmer can help both your mood and your electricity bill with
very little dimming at all.
The American Lighting Association has produced some interesting
statistical information on
this – they say that if you dim an incandescent bulb by only 10%, it
is barely noticeable to the
human eye – however, it will save another 10% off your energy cost.
Can I Get Fluorescent Dimmer Bulbs?
You can find ENERGY STAR certified CFL (Compact Fluorescent
Lighting) bulbs specifically
designed to dim 3-way fixtures. They do have to say “Dimmable CFL”
somewhere on the box,
in order to be used on dimmers, timers and photocells.
Safety Precautions
Whatever dimmer switch you purchase, however, don’t just go by the
information on the front
of the box. Read the fine print on instruction leaflets inside, or
on the back of the bulb box –
there may be restrictions it’s important to respect, for the sake of
safety and energy
preservation.
Don’t run a chandelier with multiple bulbs on a 600 watt dimmer
switch
Don’t use a standard dimmer on a fixture with a fan – the motor will
burn out.
Use a proper fan speed control, instead.
About the Author: D. Benjamin is the owner of
iapsales.com LLC - a family business specializing in HVAC products. We
are distributors of
Qmark Heaters,
electric tankless water heaters,
bathroom heaters,
patio heaters, electric heaters,
portable air
conditioners & electric towel warmers. Shop on line at
www.heateroutlet.com for these great home improvement products.
Iapsales.com LLC was established in 2003 and is the sister company to
Innovative Air Products located in historical Exeter, NH. We are a 2nd
generation manufacturers’ rep firm dedicated to providing residential &
commercial heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment. We offer
a great selection online at the lowest prices anywhere. We can also be
found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube