One issue I’ve had trouble understanding is if I can use non-LED bulbs on the dimmable circuit after switching it to LED compatible dimmer. yes, newer dimmers still work with incandescent bulbs. The only real performance difference will be the slope; they are more precise on the dim end.
Can you use a LED dimmer with regular light bulbs?
Check Your Existing Dimmer
The type of dimmer switch and it’s minimum/maximum load range will indicate the compatibility with LED light bulbs. Trailing edge dimmers work best with LED light bulbs and leading-edge dimmers work best with traditional incandescent and halogen light bulbs.
Can you use a LED dimmer switch with incandescent bulbs?
Dimmable LEDs, dimmable CFLs, incandescent and halogen bulbs are all compatible with the Universal Dimmers. It is recom- mended that only LED and CFL bulbs that are labeled as DIMMABLE be used with Universal Dimmers. The packaging on the bulb should identify it as dimmable.
What happens if you use non dimming LED bulbs on dimmer switches?
Yes, you heard it right, one should never use normal light bulbs with dimmer switches because if you do so, the light will not perform well, it may appear fine in the beginning, but with time you will start noticing the difference in the intensity of the light.
What is the difference between a LED dimmer and a regular dimmer?
The main difference is that you have a smaller dimming range (typically 70-90% range vs. 100% with incandescent or halogen). LED Bulbs may not shut off at the lowest dim setting like traditional bulbs. This happens because the dimmer thinks the bulb is completely off due to the low amount of wattage the LED consumes.
Can dimmable LED bulbs be used in non dimmable fixtures?
Can I Use a Dimmable LED Light Bulb With a Non Dimmable Light Switch? You shouldn’t have any problems. Dimmable LEDs, when installed in a non-dimming switch, will operate at 100% output and will run just as just fine.
Do I need a special switch for LED lights?
While many LEDs today are dimmable LEDs (not all are) you should still use a special dimmer switch for LED lights in order to avoid some of the common problems associated with incompatible dimmers.
Can dimmers damage LED lights?
Since dimming, either by reducing current or by pulse width modulation, results in lower overall junction temperatures, it will have no negative impact on LED life; it might even extend life.
Do you need a special switch for dimmable LED lights?
Yes, LED lights require a special dimmer. An old fashioned incandescent dimmer switch will not work properly with LED bulbs. You cannot just simply lower the voltage to the LED driver.
Do LED lights need a special dimmer?
LED lights require a dimmer that is rated for LED loads. Regular dimmers designed for incandescent or halogen light will not work with LED lights. The dimmer needs to be specifically rated and marked as suitable for LED lights, as regular dimmers used on LED lights will cause an undesirable blinking effect.
Why do my LED lights flicker on a dimmer switch?
There are many reasons why an LED lamp can flicker, but the most common cause is a lack of resistance in the lamp to allow the dimmer curve to work correctly. This is not a new issue; it’s been around for a long time, but is becoming more “noticeable” with the major increase in LED usage.
