Dimming Halogen

[Rabatts]

I have two problems with dimming halogen which confuse me more the more I read.

Problem 1 – Dimming 9 x GU10 bulbs
I have 9 x 50w GU10 halogen spotlights in the kitchen which I want to dim (lamps are dimmable), I assumed I would need a 450w dimmer but from what I have read I need a higher rated one – is that still the case or have manufacturers improved in recent years?

Problem 2 – Installing a low volt light to an existing dimmer
I have a Volex 4 gang 1 way dimmer and want to change one of the ceiling lights connected to it.
The dimmer is Digitrac, 40-250w, 220-240v, 50hz.
The light has 12 x G4 max 20w lamps, 230v and is dimmable, but the light shop say I need a special dimmer or risk blowing the transformer - is that the case, or is the dimmer I have fine? Assuming the dimmer is unacceptable is there another way around this, could I change the transformer for example?

 

[breezer]

most dimmers should be down rated for use with halogen lamps, usually by 50%

so in you two cases each dimmer is under rated

9 x 50 = 450 dimmer required 1000w (no such off the shelf 900w dimmer)

12 x 20 = 240 dimmer required is 500w but why not 1000 since you already need 1, get 2.

you should also make sure the transformer says its dimable

Note: dimming a halogen is not really a good idea, since it requires the imense heat for the halogen cycle to work.