Halogen down lights

[con1_uk]

Hello

Is it possible to use a dimmer on mains halogens?

Do they use much electricity?

If fitted to a dimmer do they use less electricity?


Thanks.

 

[Steve]

1. yes, though the dimmer rating must be double the total rating of the halogen bulbs it controls.

2. the dimmer uses a negligible amount of electricity - it warms up

3. yes they use less electricity, but wont last as long, due to the halogen cycle being incomplete - tungsten gets deposited on the glass intead of being put back on the fliament.
EDIT they only use less electricity if they are dimmed . . . but that goes without saying i think.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

1. yes, though the dimmer rating must be double the total rating of the halogen bulbs it controls.

This ROT used to be true, but increasingly manufacturers are making dimmers that don't need to be derated...