Energy savers with dimmer switches

[beinerts]

Hi all, I am replacing my old (tasteless) ceiling lights in my hallway and living room. I am planning to install energy saving bulbs at the same time, but the two ceiling lights in the living room have dimmer switches. Is it possible to use energy saving bulbs with these? I would assume not, as fluorescent lighting (which they use) needs special control gear for this. Or would they still work (on full power) but with the dimmer turned all the way up? I guess I could use halogens, which are dimmable (I think), but they are not nearly as efficient. Any help/insight is appreciated!

 

[davy_owen_88]

Just fit energy saving lamps and change the dimmer to a normal switch.

Davy

 

[beinerts]

Thanks Davy. I'll just need to work out the wiring first, there are a lot or wires in there (old late 60's 70's era circuit).

BTW am I right in assuming the halogens are dimmable (for future reference)?

 

[davy_owen_88]

Take lots of pictures before you disconnect anything and label every cable so you know what went where.

Most halogen lamps are dimmable.

Davy

 

[beinerts]

Thanks again davy, I'll make sure I follow the advice!

 

[RF Lighting]

Megaman do a dimmable CFL, which works by switching the power on and off. AFAICT they work with both dimmers and normal light switches

Click below for a demo video.





http://www.megamanuk.com/products/product.php?sid=17

 

[Steve]

RF, they dont work with dimmers in the conventional sense. And it looks like they respond to the RMS voltage decrease as an "OFF" signal from the dimmer, so turning the dimmer down slightly results in the light going off, same as flicking the switch off. Thus the dimmer controls the light exactly the same as a normal switch.

 

[RF Lighting]

The point I was getting as was the OP already has dimmers fitted, and wanted to avoid changing them. These lamps allow that, just not in the conventional dimmer way.

 

[matty0908]

New special dimmer switches are available to dim flourescents. Screwfix has some, about £25 each.

 

[Steve]

New special dimmer switches are available to dim flourescents. Screwfix has some, about £25 each.

where?

 

[breezer]

i was going to ask for a link.

ok i will.

link please