Jan
19
energy saving light bulbs compatible with dimmer switches?
Bydoes anyone know of ant high st shops who sell energy saving light bulbs that are actually compatible with dimmer switches
does anyone know of ant high st shops who sell energy saving light bulbs that are actually compatible with dimmer switches
4 Comments
January 19th, 2010 at 1:28 pm
Lowes, Menards, Home Depot
January 19th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
I know of no energy saving bulbs that will work with dimmers, they all require full voltage.
There are a few tube tube type fluorescent bulbs that will work with a dimmer, but they require a special ballast and I understand they are very expensive.
Today I purchased a few LED, 40w bulbs and they also caution against using dimmer switches.
To set your mind at ease, and avoid confusion, just go to these home improvement stores and read the warnings on the package.
There are no dimmers that work with these cfl’s or similar bulbs, and as far as those made after certain years, bull.
Since last fall, I have converted every fixture in my house with these bulbs, except those controlled by dimmers, both digitl and analog, and even the LED bulbs are not supposed to be used with dimmers.
All CFL’s are powered by some sort ofr ballast, and if not supplied with full voltage they can overheat and start fires.
January 19th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
There are some problems associated with dimming Fluorescents. Unless you buy a dimmer designed for them there is a good chance you will have an issue with them. A lot of manufacturers say you can dim their bulbs on any dimmer made after 1995 but that is not fully the case. Most will not work well on digital dimmers. They respond better to analog type ( the old slide ones ). Even then there may be problems. Most dimmers do not recognize the low amount of wattage that they use to function. Unless you are putting a bunch in series for one dimmer they may not work well. Also they require a full load at first start for an hour or so before you can dim them. Restarting them also requires them to be at full power. These issues are trying to be worked out between the bulb producers and dimmer manufacturers. Still a work in progress so if you decide to invest in a dimmable fluorescent go consult with a Lighting Specialist to make sure your needs will be met. This is not off the shelf technology yet.
January 19th, 2010 at 3:07 pm
There are two ways to solve your problem:
- Buy a dimmer switch that is compatible with regular compact fluorescent bulbs
- Buy dimmable compact fluorescent bulbs that are compatible with a regular dimmer switch.
You should be able to get either of these at any lighting supply store or building center that has a decent lighting section. Also, the page below links to pages where you can buy them online.