Dimmer Switch - How to install

[collinsc]

Hi

I have recently purchased a property. I am liking the idea of installing dimmer switches in all of the rooms rather than the standard on/off light.

Can anyone advise how easy this is to do?

Also - would that save electricity if it was dimmed low?

Thanks

 

[kevindgas]

mostly simple take 2 wires out, put same 2 wires back in the dimmer switch

the only ones that are more difficult are 2 way switches (stairway etc)

the other thing to remember is that not all light fittings are suitable for a dimmer switch.

 

[collinsc]

Thanks.
why are not all light fittings suitable?

I have a 2 bed 1st floor flat. so no stairs!

 

[kevindgas]

some have transformers in them

 

[Steve]

Low energy bulbs cannot be dimmed (unless they specifically state they can be - there are some available now)

The energy savings acheived with a dimmer are not proportional to the level of dimming. In other words, lets say you dim by 50% brightness, the saving is not 50%, more like 25%. So you are not saving a lot.

You would achieve far better electricity savings by switching to CFLs (low energy).

 

[collinsc]

can i dim with CFLs?!?

i like the idea of dimmers, bu also of saving some money! if i had to choose then id go dimmer

 

[Steve]

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_In...Lamps_and_Tubes_Index/Dimmable_CFL/index.html

A selection of dimmerable bulbs. Unfortunately there isn't a vast range yet, but these are the best combination of energy saving and dimming. The price is their downfall.

 

[collinsc]

thanks everyone.

 

[Taylortwocities]

As a footnote. I don't know what style of dimmers you have in mind. If you use ones with a metal plate then the switch plate MUST be earthed.

In older properties the lighting circuit did not have an earth conductor.

 

[collinsc]

ahh interesting, thanks. it is a 70s build flat. i would go for a 'twist' dimmer switch.

someone else on another forum said:
Yeah in about 6 months time you will be quite limited on the bulbs you will be able to put in a dimmer switch. There getting rid of a lot of them.

Basically GLS (ordinary light bulbs) are going and so are most bulbs over 60 watts and pearl light bulbs.

You can get energy savers which work in dimmer switches but they are not cheap

is all that correct?

 

[Steve]

Yes they are phasing out the old filament lamp.

But CFLs and LED lamps are coming on in leaps and bounds, now that big companies are becoming more interested in them. You'll soon be able to dim them all.

I'm going to fit LED sidelights in my car (though ordinary car bulbs are no being phased out lol)

 

[collinsc]

haha, sounds quality!