4 gang light switch question

[TR1CKY]

Hi all,

Is it possible to get a four gang light switch with two dimmers on the one switch plate or does it have to be two seperate plates with two sets of two switches?

I have a through lounge two ceiling lights and two 'sets' of wall lights and one four gang switch on the wall that controls all lights. I'd like to have the ability to dim the wall lights but the ceiling lights are not suitable to be dimmed, so can't go for a 4 way dimmer...

I've had a look around but can't see anything so I think I know what the answer is, but I thought I'd ask the pro's to confirm!

Thanks!

 

[LearningSpark]

Get a grid plate and fit 2 switches and 2 dimmers.

 

[riveralt]

Get a grid plate and fit 2 switches and 2 dimmers.

I didn't think you could fit two dimmers and two switches on a four gang grid plate - MK raise the potential for overheating - so they have to be specifically arranged.
Don't forget you will probably need at least a 35mm deep double back box and probably a 45mm.

 

[RF Lighting]

AFAIK you are just supposed to not put two dimmer modules next to each other, so

switch---dimmer---switch---dimmer

or

dimmer---switch---switch---dimmer

would be ok.

 

[riveralt]

Quote from MK electric regarding their grid switch arrangements.

Multiple dimmer installation load ratings. When installing more than one dimmer in multi-gang plates, the power rating must be reduced to allow for heat generation.

This gives you the information you require.

http://www.mkelectric.com/Documents...evices/Grid Plus/Grid Plus Technical Spec.pdf

 

[Taylortwocities]

So, do not use MK dimmers. Richmnod dimmers work fine next to each other. Or buy a 4 gang dimmer (yes theycan work next to each other without having a nervous breakdown) and swop two of the dimmers for the non-dimming switch modules.

 

[flameport]

This range can be used for what you want:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Manufacturers/Varilight/Varilight_Grid_Brushed_Steel/index.html
however ignore the advice about 35mm boxes - use a 47mm one.

or buy a 4 gang dimmer and replace 2 of them with switch only modules:
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Manufacturers/Varilight/Wiring_Accessories~Dimmers_2/index.html
so although you have 4 identical knobs, 2 of them are just on/off.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

the ceiling lights are not suitable to be dimmed

Why not?

 

[TR1CKY]

the ceiling lights are not suitable to be dimmed

Why not?

I don't know. I assume its because of the low voltage halogen bulbs? It just says not suitable for dimming in the description

Thanks for the links flameport - very helpful, especially as I was just coming on to ask "where do I get these parts"