Can I Use A Dimmer Switch With Fluorescent Bulbs

Use the right dimmer switch.

Can i use a dimmer switch with fluorescent bulbs.

A common fluorescent bulb will not work with a dimmer installed for incandescent lighting. You must make sure you purchase the correct type of dimmer switch as those made for incandescent lights won t work with fluorescent lights. This is because they are not compatible with the ones used for fluorescent lamps. There are special dimmers and ballasts which when used together provide the fluorescent lighting that can be dimmed.

It is possible to use wall dimmers for both fluorescent and cfl bulbs but each requires a different approach and special hardware. You can visit your local hardware store if you don t know the difference between the two. This overheats the bulb and can actually cause it to light on fire. You need to purchase a special type of dimmer switch that s made especially for fluorescent lights.

After achieving to collect all the mentioned things we still cannot ensure the dimming will have decent quality. Furthermore it takes the correct type of dimmer switch like those made for incandescent or led lights won t work with fluorescent lights and a fluorescent light fixture that s rated for dimming. While there aren t a ton of documented cases of fires being started by cfls being connected to dimmer switches there are some. Tip 4 be aware of the dangers.

Some dimmers such as this one are compatible with dimmable cfl bulbs. Because of the added expense of these fixtures they are common only in commercial applications. Non dimmable cfls shouldn t be plugged into dimmer switches. You cannot use most fluorescent lights with a dimmer.

Occasionally when a halogen bulb burns out it will destroy a dimmer switch but. Your hardware store will be able to give you the best advice. Not everybody takes the time to read the warning labels on everything they buy but this is something we should all be aware of. The answer is yes but certain considerations apply.

Unfortunately that is not the case and the same is true of dimmable fluorescent bulbs paired with fluorescent dimmers. This is a pretty serious problem. Before fitting the dimmer switch make sure it is the exact type and not the ones made for the incandescent bulb.