2 way dimmer won't dim

[Ourownwrs]

Hello, just installed a new 2 way dimmer switch and it turns on and off but does not dim at all. It is controlling just a standard 40w bulb so shouldn't be anything to do with that? Any ideas anyone?

Cheers

 

[ekmdgrf]

Not sure that this is a DIY disaster per se. Might be better posted in the sparks forum. I've not really done anything with dimmers, but afaik, I can't think of a way to wire it up so that it work switch but not dim. Maybe a faulty dimmer?

 

[AGal88]

Is this a replacement for an on/off switch?
Is it a push on/off or turn on/off style?
Any loud humming noises?

A quick look back maybe useful:
http://www.diynot.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=219110

 

[foxhole]

Most dimmers have a minimum wattage to operate usually between 40-60watts try a large wattage bulb.

 

[wineo]

Most dimmers have a minimum wattage to operate usually between 40-60watts try a large wattage bulb.

Is the correct answer.

Why would you want to dim a single 40 Watt bulb anyway?

 

[ekmdgrf]

Why would you want to dim a single 40 Watt bulb anyway?

To reduce the light output.

 

[wineo]

Why would you want to dim a single 40 Watt bulb anyway?

To reduce the light output.

So stick a lower wattage bulb in........

 

[Taylortwocities]

So stick a lower wattage bulb in........

Not very helpful.

As a first step, please tell us what colour wires you have on which terminals on the dimmer, and what terminals they were connected to on the old switch.