Contrary to popular belief it is possible to put a dimmer switch on led lights without the help of a professional.
Can i put led lights on a dimmer.
The number one rule for successfully dimming led lighting might sound obvious but it is a common misconception that any led lights can be dimmed with an led dimmer.
We re here to help.
The bottom line is compatibility.
One could be tempted to connect non dimmable led lamps to a dimmer anyway.
Led lights need their own special electronic dimmer switch to have a fully functioning and dimming light.
Some fixtures such as under cabinet and recessed lights may need special led dimmer switches for proper performance.
Because you slide the dimmer all the way down to turn the lights off you have to set the brightness each time you turn them on.
New led fixtures can be so bright and efficient you have to take the lights down very low on the dimmer in order to get them to the right level.
Brightness can t be controlled.
Not all led lights are designed with dimming capabilities.
It can be used with up to 150 watts of dimmable leds or up to 600 watts of incandescent or halogen bulbs.
Some led bulbs are designed for use with standard dimmer switches while others are not.
Need a sarasota electrician to install led lights with a dimmer that s compatible.
Make sure you have dimmable led lights.
For example restaurants and hotels may want to set a certain ambiance using led lights on a dimmer.
Which led dimmer switch should you choose.
A standard dimmer switch cannot be used with an led light as you will never be able to dim the led light either completely or not very well.
In rare cases this can even work.
If you try to use a dimmer switch with a standard non dimmable led driver then the lights will go off or may start to flicker.
That s often when we notice problems.
So what happens if you use non dimmable leds on a dimmer.
Therefore it is essential to choose lamps that the manufacturer describes as dimmable.
Check the box or product description first to make sure they re dimmable seen below.
This means that the led driver has built in circuitry that can detect the ac being chopped and dim the led light accordingly.
But in most cases the following effects may occur.
When operating a non dimmable led on a dimmer many undesirable side effects can occur.
Lights can get left on at a very low level because the dimmer was not pushed all the way down to off.
Electronic or digital style.
Also comes along with a large rocker paddle to allow an efficient and convenient process of switching on and off.
Led light bulbs can be used in light fixtures controlled by dimmer switches but you may well find that traditional dimmers may not work or may work inadequately with some led bulbs.
However you need to familiarize yourself with ways to safely install a dimmer switch to ensure that it adheres to the national electrical code requirements.