Can you use an incandescent dimmer with LED?
A standard incandescent dimmer can be used to dim dimmable LED/CFL bulbs; however performance may vary. In some instances, it will work perfectly and in others you may experience issues such as flickering, reduced dimming range and fluttering.
Do you need a specific dimmer for 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.
Will old dimmers work with LED?
Yes, LED bulbs can be used on a dimmer but they need to be listed as dimmable. LEDs can still work with incandescent dimmers, but the compatibility is an essential factor. Look at manufacturers’ website to figure out the right bulb and dimmer for your home.
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.
What happens if you use non dimming LED bulbs on dimmer switches?
So what happens if you use non-dimmable LEDs on a dimmer? Well, at best the bulb just won’t dim properly. At worst, though, you might damage the bulb. You see, dimmable LEDs have special circuitry inside that allows them to respond to varying current levels or “pulsing” current waves to produce a dimming effect.
What is the difference between a regular dimmer and an LED dimmer?
In traditional dimming systems you are simply lowering the voltage/power to the bulb, which in turn dims it down. With LED bulbs you cannot limit the power to the driver, because if you do, the bulb would flicker or just turn off.
What type of dimmer do I need for LED lights?
LED bulbs have a low wattage, so you’ll need to have a dimmer that is 250W or 400W and ideally intelligent trailing edge, for smooth dimming. See our full range of LED suitable trailing edge dimmer switches.
Why do LED lights flicker on dimmer?
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.
Are incandescent bulbs dimmable?
The answer is yes, all incandescents are dimmable. They have the largest controllable dimming range from 100% full light, all the way down to 0%. Incandescents produce light by allowing an electric current to flow through a metal filament surrounded by inactive nitrogen and argon gas.
Why do some dimmers not work with LEDs?
While most LED bulbs are now dimmable, not all of them are and not all of them dim in the same manner Since LEDs consume such a low wattage, many types of dimmers do not function with LED in the same way that they do with high wattage load incandescents.
Can any light be put on a dimmer switch?
Most light fixtures will work with standard dimmer switches, including those with halogen and incandescent lamps. Determine whether your fixture uses line or low voltage. If you install line-voltage track and rail lights with incandescent bulbs, you can use dimmer switches to control their brightness.
What happens if you put a dimmable bulb in a non dimmable socket?
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 you need a special light bulb for a dimmer switch?
A dimmer switch can only support LEDs, CFLs and other lights that are made up of advanced technology and have a dimming feature.
Are dimmer switches safe?
So, although it is mostly safe to leave a dimmer on low, it is essential to ensure that the light bulb itself is not surrounded by something that can catch fire. Another aspect to keep in mind is that dimmer switches can be a fire hazard if you put too much load on the circuit.
Do LED dimmers get hot?
It’s perfectly normal for a dimmer switch to be a little warm when your lights are on (or partially on). But if it’s hot, there could be a problem. Dimmer switches get warm because they have electronic devices inside of them to take care of the dimming.
