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If you use a non-dimmable Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) in a circuit controlled by a dimmer switch no damage will be done but the CFL will stay bright when the dimmer is turned down whilst any other normal incandescent lamps wired into the same circuit will go dim in the normal way.
Dimmable Compact Fluorescent Lamps are now available, for example in the Megaman range of CFLs. For more information see the Related Link shown below.
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Incandescent dimming uses any incandescent lamps and an incandescent dimmer.
To dim fluorescent lamps usually requires use of fluorescent dimmers AND fluorescent dimmable ballasts. If these two components do not match, dimming will not work.
The fluorescent lamps themselves are the same whether you put them in a standard (nondimming) ballast or a dimmable ballast.
If your dimmers are not dimming the CFLs they are either not fluorescent dimmers or, more likely, your ballast in the light fixture is not a dimmable ballast.
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Is there a dimmable CFL bulb that can be used with an electronic dimmer?
Not all CFL bulbs are dimmable, and those that are require specific dimmer switches designed to work with them. Make sure to check if both the CFL bulb and the electronic dimmer are compatible before use to avoid damage and ensure proper functionality.
Can an incondescent lamp dimmer be used to control a fluorescent lamp load?
No, incandescent lamp dimmers are not compatible with fluorescent lamps. Fluorescent lamps require special dimming ballasts to control their light output. Attempting to use an incandescent lamp dimmer with a fluorescent lamp can cause damage to the lamp and dimmer.
Which dimmer switch to use with LED down lighters?
Look on the carton that the dimmer comes in. On the label there will be a list of lamp types that the dimmer can be used on along with the maximum wattage that the dimmer can control.
Why does a dimmable eco bulb not dim when controlled from a dimmer switch?
The bulb must be labeled as dimmable. If the bulb is an LED for example there is a circuit that transforms the 120 AC supply voltage to a DC voltage. This circuit needs to be able to supply a DC voltage proportional to the voltage required to operate the LEDs. In a dimmable bulb you might be powering the multiple LEDs selectively to achieve dimming rather than just reducing voltage to all LEDs over a very small voltage range in which an LED operates.
Can xenon lamps be used with a dimmer switch?
No, xenon lamps are not typically compatible with dimmer switches. Xenon lamps require a specific voltage to operate efficiently, and dimmer switches may not provide a constant level of voltage, which can lead to inconsistent lighting or may damage the lamp. It is recommended to use xenon lamps with standard on/off switches.
Why can't you dim fluorescent light bulbs?
Some fluorescent lamps (bulbs) can be dimmed, but they must be designed to be dimmable. The ballasts and electronics that drive the bulb have to be designed to work with a dimmer or they will not function properly and may overheat. When dimming fluorescent bulbs, many can't be faded smoothly from full to zero. Some will only go to a minimum like 5-20%. A dimmable compact fluorescent lamp will be labelled as being dimmble and can be connected to an ordinary dimmer. For tubes, the ballast has to be specailly designed to be dimmable.
Is there a dimmable CFL bulb that can be used with an electronic dimmer?
Not all CFL bulbs are dimmable, and those that are require specific dimmer switches designed to work with them. Make sure to check if both the CFL bulb and the electronic dimmer are compatible before use to avoid damage and ensure proper functionality.
Can an incondescent lamp dimmer be used to control a fluorescent lamp load?
No, incandescent lamp dimmers are not compatible with fluorescent lamps. Fluorescent lamps require special dimming ballasts to control their light output. Attempting to use an incandescent lamp dimmer with a fluorescent lamp can cause damage to the lamp and dimmer.
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.
Which dimmer switch to use with LED down lighters?
Look on the carton that the dimmer comes in. On the label there will be a list of lamp types that the dimmer can be used on along with the maximum wattage that the dimmer can control.
Why does a dimmable eco bulb not dim when controlled from a dimmer switch?
The bulb must be labeled as dimmable. If the bulb is an LED for example there is a circuit that transforms the 120 AC supply voltage to a DC voltage. This circuit needs to be able to supply a DC voltage proportional to the voltage required to operate the LEDs. In a dimmable bulb you might be powering the multiple LEDs selectively to achieve dimming rather than just reducing voltage to all LEDs over a very small voltage range in which an LED operates.
Can xenon lamps be used with a dimmer switch?
No, xenon lamps are not typically compatible with dimmer switches. Xenon lamps require a specific voltage to operate efficiently, and dimmer switches may not provide a constant level of voltage, which can lead to inconsistent lighting or may damage the lamp. It is recommended to use xenon lamps with standard on/off switches.
Can you use a dimmer switch with A19 incandescent bulbs?
Yes, you can use a dimmer switch with A19 incandescent bulbs. Make sure to check the compatibility of the dimmer switch with the specific type of bulb you have and follow the manufacturer's guidelines for installation.
Can Spider Lights be Dimmed?
Whether a spider light fixture can be dimmed depends on the specific design and the type of bulbs it uses. Here are the key factors to consider: Dimmable Bulbs: Spider lights that use dimmable bulbs can generally be dimmed. Check the product specifications or packaging to see if the bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches. Dimmer Switch Compatibility: Even if the bulbs are dimmable, the spider light fixture must be compatible with dimmer switches. Some fixtures may come with built-in dimming capabilities, while others may require the use of an external dimmer switch. Built-in Dimmer Functionality: Some spider light fixtures come with built-in dimming functionality. In such cases, you can usually control the brightness directly using a switch or a remote control that comes with the fixture. Dimmer Switch Installation: If your spider light is not dimmable by default, you can still install a dimmer switch on the wall. However, this depends on the type of bulbs used in the fixture. Not all types of bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches, so make sure to use dimmable bulbs. LED Compatibility: If your spider light uses LED bulbs, it's essential to use dimmable LED bulbs and ensure that the dimmer switch is compatible with LED lighting. Not all LED bulbs work well with all dimmer switches, so it's important to check for compatibility. Before attempting to dim a spider light or any other lighting fixture, it's crucial to read the product documentation, including the specifications for both the fixture and the bulbs. If you're unsure about compatibility or installation, it's advisable to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified electrician. Always follow safety guidelines and ensure that any electrical work is performed in accordance with local building codes. If your spider light is part of a larger lighting system or if you have specific product details, you may want to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for accurate information regarding dimming capabilities.
Can the new bright white LED lights be used on a circuit with a standard TRIAC-type dimmer switch?
Not all LED lights are compatible with standard TRIAC dimmer switches. You will need to check if the LED lights are dimmable and specifically designed for use with TRIAC dimmers. Using incompatible LEDs with a TRIAC dimmer can lead to flickering, buzzing, or premature failure. It's best to consult the manufacturer's guidelines before proceeding.
What happens to a series circuit if a longer wire is used?
Resistance is increased so the light will be dimmer.
Do dimmer switches save energy?
Yes, dimmer switches can save energy by reducing the amount of electricity flowing through a light fixture. When the light is dimmed, less power is being used, resulting in energy savings.
