help choosing a dimmer switch

[richie4236]

I have juts been to buy a dimmer switch to replace the normal light switch in our littlens nursery.

I have come back empty handed. The options were 1 way of two way - i think i need one way as its not part of a two switch circuit.
The other option was for use with or with out an induction circuit - i don't know what this is.

None of them said they should be used with low energy light bulbs.

which one do i need to buy please? with induction or without?

Cheers

Rich

 

[RF Lighting]

You can not use any type of dimmers with low energy lamps.

 

[timhilto]

hiya, its worth buying a good quailty dimmer switch. the ones you see typically dont tend to last too long and some "hummmm" badly. i guess you have one light fitting in that room. dimmers do have wattage ratings typically a 250 watt which should be suitable for your application. a plain white 250 watt dimmer made by Hamilton is a good solution for around 8- 10 pounds. thye do do brass etc but are slightly more expensive naturally. that price may be double wat u have seen perhaps but will last more than double the life of the cheapys !! and wont "hummmm" .

 

[RF Lighting]

Even the best quality dimmer switch will still not dim low energy lamps

 

[timhilto]

very true !! quote

"You can not use any type of dimmers with low energy lamps."

sorry thought that point had been made clear earlier lol i guess we r dealing with some amateur electricians on here only just joined so will try and make my posts idiot proof lol .........

 

[richie4236]

cheers for the replys lads.

so whats an induction circuit?

Cheers

Rich

 

[RF Lighting]

You need to use an inductive dimmer to dim certain types of (extra) low voltage lighting.

Most electronic transformers will dim fine with a standard dimmer, whereas you normally need an inductive dimmer if the transformer is a wire wound torroidal type.

 

[333rocky333]

Get a standard dimmer and put back a normal 40 watt or 60 watt light bulb.
Note the dimmer has a minimum lamp rating, usually 40 watt, to work properly.
save the low energy bulb for another room

 

[richie4236]

cheers lad - thats fab, thanks

Rich