Adding a LED Light Fixture with a Dimmer Switch
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Will my existing lights work with a new LED light fixture? Adding a Non Dimmable LED Light Fixture. |
LED Light Fixture
Electrical Question: Will my existing lights work with a new LED light fixture?
My electrical wiring project involves a Ceiling Light in the Hallway of a Condo.
- I have two hall ceiling lights that have three separate switches; one is a dimmer switch. I have a new light to replace one of the fixtures. But it is not dim (it has a built in LED). If I install this new non dimming light, will my other fixture still dim, even though the new replaced one won’t? I don’t want to call an electrician to come out until I know. Thank you.
This electrical wiring question came from Sam, a Homeowner in Vancouver, Canada.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Sam.
Adding a LED Light Fixture
Application: Wiring a LED Light Fixture.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Ceiling Light, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Ceiling Light should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in Vancouver, Canada. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Adding a Non Dimmable LED Light Fixture
This electrical wiring project is about adding a non-dimming LED Ceiling Light fixture in the Hallway of a Condo.
Great Question Sam!
Typically, the non-dimmable lamp will not affect the other light fixture, however the non-dimmable LED lamp will most likely not work right, because the LED light is made to work with a standard switch, and not a dimmer switch.
You may consider installing two light fixtures that are the same, and are compatible with the switches you have.
LED Light Bulbs
When selecting a LED lamp or LED light fixture, decide if the light will always be on full bright, or if you would like the brightness to change down to a dim level of light.
Dimmer Switches
Most dimmer switches will require LED light fixtures and LED light bulbs that are dimmable, and compatible with the dimmer switch.
More about a Ceiling Light Fixtures and LED Lamps
3 Way Dimmer Switch Wiring Diagram
Fully explained 3 way dimmer switch wiring diagram will take the mystery out of wiring a 3-way dimmer switch.
How to Install Home Lighting
Lighting Electrical Codes
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