Dimmer Switch for LED Light Fixture
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How to Wire a Dimmer Switch for LED Lighting |
Light Fixture Components and Dimmer Switches
[ad#block]Electrical Question: I am trying to identify a problem. I am running a series of 3 LED recessed lights 4 watts each (I know how it’s done) with a dimmer switch. After wiring, the lights flashed quickly and continuously. I tried a regular single pole switch and everything worked. I tried a different dimmer switch, but now the breaker keeps tripping. I double checked the wiring in the switch box. All is good. Will a dimmer work? Wiring it is easy enough (single pole). I thought there might be a short at the light connections, but everything worked with the single pole switch, so ruled that out. Any suggestions?
This electrical question came from: John, a Homeowner from Pooler, Georgia.
See more about Home Wiring for Georgia
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question John.
How to Wire a Dimmer Switch for LED Lighting
- The dimmer switch must be compatible with the type of LED lights that are being used in the light fixtures.
- Check with the documentation that came with the light fixtures.
- You may also have an issue if the light circuit is connected to a low voltage power supply.
- Basically, all the light fixture components must permit dimming and the components must be compatible for successful dimming.
RESOURCES
wiring a dimmer switch
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.
recessed lighting
How To Install Recessed Lighting
This article is about recessed lighting for your home electrical improvements. Discover how recessed lighting can enhance the mood of any room in your home.
This link is helpful as a Homeowner
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My led lights flash when I dim them, but have found if I use one 100 watt incandescent bulb on the “string ” of 12 watt LED bulbs they dim fine. Can I use a dummy load to simulate the incandescent bulb? What would I use?
Thanks,
David
Hi David,
Using a dummy load is an interesting idea, but keep in mind that the load will create heat so it would have to be installed with that in mind. I would first make sure the dimmer is not sized too large and use the Trim Adjustment that will allow further range of operation. Most dimmer switches have a trim adjustment which is located on the top or bottom of the dimmer switch and the adjustment can only be made before the dimmer is installed into the switch box, and the adjustment is made using a small screw driver. There are a few other dimmers that have adjustments that are accessible behind the front cover plate.
Dave