Buzz free formula for 12v downlight circuits.......

[JDLDIY]

Hi there. I am having my electrician install some new downlight circuits, but I want to make sure I get the right stuff, last time he did this the switches buzzed loudly, as did the light fittings............
What's the magic formula? I wanted 3 circuits in total, 2 with 5 x 50W LV lamps and 1 with 4. I've read somewhere that the dimmer switches need to be rated at twice the total wattage, so 500W? Also do I need to make sure I avoid cheaper transformers? If so any recommendations?

I'd like the dimmers to be mounted in line next to each other, but using larger capacity dimmers will space them apart and take up loads of space on the wall, is there anything else I can use to get around this?

Many thanks.

 

[ScrewForumIsJunk]

"is there anything else I can use to get around this? "

Yes fit a good old florry.

Most modern dimmers no longer need the 2x rule.

It is cheap transformers that 'buzz' to be precise it is the laminations that 'buzz'.

Magic formulae? No such thing as magic only common sense (and money)

 

[JDLDIY]

Many thanks for the quick reply.

Yes fit a good old florry.

You mean a fluorescent tube? Not going to give the desired effect I'm afraid. Or did you mean something else?

Most modern dimmers no longer need the 2x rule

Is there any way of telling when I look at a transformer? How can I tell it does/doesn't need the 2x rule?

It is cheap transformers that 'buzz' to be precise it is the laminations that 'buzz'.

How much should I expect to pay for a decent tranny or can you recommend a make/model?

Again many thanks.

 

[333rocky333]

can you recommend a make/model?

My favourites
http://www.modelighting.com/index3.asp?id=516&section=What Makes a Good Quality Transformer&set=2

Also explains the buzz if you read on

 

[JDLDIY]

Thanks but I can't get the link to work, have you got another?

 

[333rocky333]

Transformer

http://www.modelighting.com/index3.asp?id=505&ion=Transformers&set=2


The buzz

http://www.modelighting.com/index3.asp?id=517&section=What Makes a Good Quality Transformer&set=2

 

[333rocky333]

Transformer

http://www.modelighting.com/index3.asp?id=505&ion=Transformers&set=2


The buzz

http://www.modelighting.com/index3....akes a Good Quality Transformer&set=2[/QUOTE]

Worked in preview

http://www.modelighting.com/

go to ET-C transformers ,

 

[JDLDIY]

Anybody tried Varilight? I'm thinking of having this switch

http://www.1stopelectrics.com/produ...mote_touch_dimension_screwless_premium_white/

They suggest on their website that it should be coupled with their transformers for noise free operation.

I've never heard of the company, do they have a good reputation? Make quality products or low end rubbish?

Many thanks.

 

[Steve]

Varilight have a decent reputation. Though I had a dimmer (like the one above) that went a bit strange. I got a good couple of years use from it though.

 

[sparkybird]

I seem to recall that Lutron claim their dimmers are low/no buzz...
Expensive though!

 

[JDLDIY]

Well, I've decided to go for the above dimmer with some of their low voltage transformers. I'll report back on this thread when it's done.