Introduction to Dimmer Switches, Working, Features, & Applications

Dimmer switches are part of a light control system that uses low energy. Dimmers operate by restricting the voltage used by lights as a load. Dimmer switches work well with incandescent bulbs because they provide a larger dimming option. Dimmer switches are easy to connect to circuits. Here, we will discuss the detailed features and workings of dimmer switches. So, let’s get started with an introduction to dimmers.

What Does a Dimmer Switch Do?

Dimmer switches increase or reduce the rightness of the light bulb. They are normally used at home offices to save energy and control lighting.

Dimmer switches are also connected to smart home features to control the ambiance at home. It has features for automatic light setting for dimming certain times with timers or manually setting light levels.

How do Dimmer Switches Work?

The main use of a dimmer switch is to find out how to get good results from devices; it helps to understand the working. Dimmer switches are easy to work with based on type. A basic dimmer switch minimizes the power flow in the circuit, reducing light brightness. The latest dimmer switches work differently.

Modern dimmers get the power that flows through the light circuit and then control the light on and off it. After that, divert electricity from the bulb. As a result, the current through the bulb reduces. Note that the on or off flow of power is regulated with AC current used at home.

The dimmer switch varies the current flow direction that is used for controlling lights. The current changes polarity as a result, automatically turning the circuit on or off.

Types of Dimmer Switches

Leading Edge Dimmers

• This switch function is to replace ceramic holders and make connections between halogen and incandescent bulbs through the use of the TRIAC switch technique. It is a low-cost option and helps to handle high power.

LED Dimmer Switch

• These dimmer switches are used for LED bulb drivers. This dimmer used for LED lights is supported by a low wattage value and helps to get a smooth dimming process.

Single-pole dimmers

• These switches have features for supporting a single switch and light intensity controller, and they are easily programmed at a single point.

3-way or 4-way dimmers

• This switch is just not an on or off light but also provides flexible options for controlling light at any location, with the use of different options.

Touch Screen Dimmer Switches

• This switch is connected to the wall, is easy to work on, and provides a modern level in the room. It is mostly used for automation systems.

Tap Dimmers

• It is low-cost, comes with buttons or touchpad options, and is best for use in the smart home system.

Smart dimmers: 

• Smart dimmers come with some features such as remote control and voice activation of lights and help to connect lighting in smart home systems. With these switches, we can control light through apps or smart home hubs.

How to Install Dimmer Switches?

Tools and materials for dimmers switches

Before installing dimmers, switch these components and materials.

• Needle-nose pliers
• Voltage tester
• New dimmer switch
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Wire strippers
• Wire nuts
• Electrical tape
• Cover plate

Follow these steps for installing the dimmer switches.

1. First of all, off the connected load and make sure the power in that circuit is completely off. To avoid lock accidental switch on lock off the device.
2. Unscrew the old light switch with notedown the wire connections.
3. Set the meter at a voltage level and do a voltage test on the terminals of a switch to confirm that the circuit is dead, and now we can work on it.
4. Now disconnect wires through opening screws and denote each for avoiding any complications.
5. Make the connection of cords for accurate terminals on a new connected dimmer switch.
6. With the use of a screwdriver, connect the dimmer switch to the box in the wall.
7. Now remove the lock off the device and on the supply to load through the circuit breaker.
8. Check dimmers are working well and changing brightness levels easily.

Advantages of Dimmer Switches.

• These switches help light bulbs to work longer since they use low brightness. It helps to increase the working life of the bulb from some months to years.
• Light dimming helps to save 98 percent of energy use and also reduces energy bills.
• It helps to control through lighting knobs, remote control, slides, or touch sensors. So it helps to relate light levels in homes easily.
• This switch helps dim fluorescent lights. So it provides cool light and reduces cost. But not increase the working life of fluorescent bulbs.
• The installation process of dimmer switches is easy.

Disadvantages of Dimmer Switches

• There is a need for special types of dimmer switches for dimmable lights to work well. In other words, for dimmable light, we need more instruments that make it costly.
• If these switches are not connected correctly, it can cause the light to be damaged and bad.
• The dimmable lights do not work for all types of bulbs. Some types of bulbs, like halogen and incandescent bulbs, are not used with dimmable lights. Since they can be damaged due to fast changes in the brightness of dimmers.