A solution to this is to put all appliances on separate breakers as this will lessen the surge wattage. In this post we learn through two examples how to build a simple light dimmer switch circuit for controlling light intensity with pot, using the principle of triac phase chopping.
When surge wattage occurs, the power drain can make the LED lights dim or flicker. When this happens there is a large drop in voltage.
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. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to put a dimmer switch on LED lights without the help of a professional. The total wattage of all lamps is less than or equal to the maximum wattage rating on the dimmer switch. LED dimmer switches are a great way to save on electricity and set the right ambiance for your home.The dimmer switch is rated for the same voltage as the lighting application.There is an electrical current flowing in the homes wiring and the resistance of each wire uses some of the voltage when other things in your home are switched on and running.īeside this, how do I know if my dimmer switch is led?Īny dimmer switch is compatible with incandescent or halogen light bulbs as the following conditions are met: If you want to use a 120V magnetic low voltage dimmer switch with your new LED lights, our 12V Dimmable Drivers are made specifically for use with this kind of switch.Īlso, why are my LED lights not bright? LED light bulbs may flicker or dim in your home when there are voltage fluctuations in your homes wiring. If you try to use a dimmer switch with a standard ‘non-dimmable’ LED driver then the lights will. This means that the LED driver has built in circuitry that can detect the AC being ‘chopped’ and dim the LED light accordingly. Just be sure to use a line-voltage dimmer as well.Īlso to know is, can you dim 12v LED lights? For a LED driver to work with a TRIAC type dimming switch it needs to be an AC Phase Cut Dimming type LED driver. If you install line-voltage track and rail lights with incandescent bulbs, you can use dimmer switches to control their brightness. Most light fixtures will work with standard dimmer switches, including those with halogen and incandescent lamps.