Dimmer light - does not get brighter once turned down

[PM36]

Hi

I've recently changed the dimmer switch and it works fine except when I turn it down to the lowest. At this point, the lights go off and it won't switch back on.

The only way i can switch this back on subsequently is by switching off the power at the mains. This has got me absolutely stumped.

I have 8 down lights at 50w and am using a 240v 400w single dimmer.

Any help would be greatly appreciated

Thank

 

[Spark123]

Is the dimmer switch rated for halogens?

 

[PM36]

I don't actually know. This is something I bought from Homebase.

Will it specifically say rated for halogens?

Thanks for the response?

 

[Spark123]

Some say that they don't need to be de-rated for halogens. If it doesn't say then I suspect it may not be big enough causing the problem.
Makes such as MK often say they don't need to be de-rated, they do a 500w dimmer for about £30.

 

[PM36]

Thanks. I was wondering if that was the problem as I imagine I'm running it at its maxium allowable loading.

I might try and get a larger wattage and see if it works.

Thanks again

 

[TicklyT]

The electronic transformers for 12 Volt halogen lights can behave oddly when powered via a dimmer, unless both the dimmer and the transformer are capable of working with each other

 

[PM36]

Any thoughts how I can ensure the halogen lights and the dimmer are compatible?

Thanks

 

[Steve]

You need to look for which dimming technology they use - leading edge or trailing edge. And find transformers to match. You will, however struggle, because many manufacturers dont state, especially el-cheapo jobbies from Homebase.