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LED Dimmer- Everything You Need To Know

LED Dimmer- Everything You Need To Know

Last updated on December 12, 2023

Discover all the important information about LED dimmers including how they work, types, compatibility, and benefits. Get the most out of your LED lights with this comprehensive guide.

Not all LED lights or bulbs are dimmable, it is crucial to check the dimming compatibility before making a purchase. On choosing a lamp that requires a lightbulb, it should mention if it is compatible with an LED light source. Plus, it will be better if it is dimmable.

If you’re enjoying a romantic evening indoors, watching a movie, or even playing your favourite computer game, dimmable LED lights are great for setting the right mood.

Overall, it is important to read the labeling and ensure that the dimmable LED light has a dimming-compatible design. Never use a dimmer with a non-dimmable LED as it can significantly reduce the lamp’s lifespan.

What Is A LED Dimmer?

An LED dimmer is a device that allows and manipulates the dimming control process of the LED lighting device. Solid-phase illumination is particularly suitable for dimming applications since LED lights react immediately to changes in power input.

A dimmable LED bulb can be controlled by a separate external dimmer. It is worth noting that some types of LED lighting are not meant to be dimmed. When aiming to install an LED-based fixture to dim it, it is crucial to learn whether it has dimming compatibility. If so, you should determine what sort of dimmer you have to use.

Why Do You Need A Dimmer For A LED Light?

A dimmable LED lamp can provide several advantages. First and most importantly, dimming an LED bulb further reduces energy consumption and increases the energy savings coefficient. When an LED bulb is dimmed to 50%, it will only consume around half of the energy it would typically use for lighting.

Furthermore, dimming an LED bulb may help extend its already long lifespan. A dimmed LED light generates less heat and, as a result, has less impact on the lamp’s elements, saving time and money.

Another advantage of dimmable LED lights is the effect on the general space settings. The ability to dim LED lighting allows you to create a particular vibe for any type of environment.

What Is A LED Dimmer Switch?

Dimmer switches simply reduce the amount of energy provided to the LED light. This is achieved by cutting a portion of a waveform, either on the lead or trailing edge.

For proper illumination, it is essential to assemble all the necessary components for a streamlined connection of the space. Despite the scattered focus on lampshades and lightbulbs, it is important not to overlook necessary switches.

What kind of dimmer do you need for LED lights?

If your lighting fixtures use LED bulbs or sealed fittings with an integrated controller, there are a variety of wall-mounted dimmers to match these types. Closely examine the package and instructions of the dimmer, as well as the manual guide or webpage. This will help you confirm that the dimmer at hand is listed as LED-compatible.

Avoid outdated wall-mounted dimmers, particularly those certified for loads above 40 or 60 watts. They are usually designed for older incandescent lights and are unlikely to work with LEDs.

led dimmer

Do you need a special dimmer switch for LED lights?

You cannot use a regular dimmer switch with an LED light as you’ll never be able to dim it entirely or properly. In most scenarios, this will prove very impractical.

Standard dimmer switches typically have a minimum power requirement of 50W. LED lights operate on lower wattages than regular lamps when connected to that dimmer switch. So, they will not achieve the minimum power requirement. This can negatively affect the dimmer switch and cause the light itself to underperform and overheat.

Are all LED lights dimmable?

All LEDs can be dimmed. However, all LED lights also require a driver, which is an electronic hardware device that converts mains power to 12 or 24 volts of direct current.

The capability to dim an LED light has nothing to do with the LEDs themselves — but is a direct result of the driver’s operation and capacity. To that effect, it’s worth noting that not all LED drivers have this feature. This means only the LEDs that operate with specific types of drivers can eventually be dimmed.

What is the difference between dimmable and non-dimmable LEDs?

The two major differences are:

  • Dimmable LED lights tend to be more expensive than non-dimmable ones.
  • Dimmable LED bulbs can be used in non-dimmable circuits. However, non-dimmable lights should not be used in dimmable circuits since both the light and the circuit may be damaged.

Can you use a dimmer in a non-dimmable LED?

Only technically advanced LEDs, CFLs, and other lights with dimming capability can be used with a dimmer switch. However, to achieve a peaceful transition to efficient and convenient light sources, it is important to make sure that dimmer switches are not paired with non-dimmable electrical lights.

If you do attempt this combination, the lights might seem fine at first, but will eventually begin losing brightness and deteriorating rapidly with time. Moreover, doing so may cause overheating of the bulbs and become the root cause of a major fire risk.

Is the dimmer switch safe to use?

dimmer switch

Light dimming switches are not only extremely safe, but they also come in a wide range of attractive and practical designs. Their only potential hazard is a fire risk caused by overheating, resulting from a failure to understand and follow any attached guidelines.

Faulty connections and driving too much electricity through dimmer switches are often the most frequent cause of dimmer switch fires. To ensure your dimmer switch is compatible with the lights installed or planned for the space, it is essential to do thorough research.

Most trustworthy and high-quality dimmer switch suppliers provide a detailed description of the different types of devices their switches can regulate. Special attention must be given to the location of the dimmable LED bulbs.

Dimmable LED lights, for example, will be of little value when illuminating an area where you need to concentrate, such as a countertop. For such a situation, a non-dimmable simple white LED that provides a bright light output will help. It will illuminate the space better, highlight the work more thoroughly and help you focus on the work.

LED lights that can be adjusted are essential for providing mood lighting. They are also excellent for accent lighting in living areas, guestrooms, and corridors. Besides, they set the light pattern to draw particular attention to certain ornamental pieces like paintings or statues.

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E-Green Electrical

E-Green Electrical is a top tier energy efficiency company based in Sydney. We focus on utilising government rebates to help reduce our clients energy consumption by installing energy efficient solutions. E-Green boasts a rich heritage within the realm of energy efficiency, consistently staying up to date with cutting-edge technologies to deliver optimal results for our valued customers.

We don't just sell products and services; we also provides tips and information on how to help reduce energy consumption. We believe in using energy wisely and teaching others how to do the same. For E-Green, it’s important to share knowledge with the community. That's why we regularly write articles about saving energy, new government rebates available and increasing sustainability.

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