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What causes dimmer switches to fail?
A dimmer switch that is not working is often caused by a loss of power or a faulty dimmer. Dimmer switches typically last 15 years. However, a dimmer can fail due to age, repeated use, or loose wire connections that cause them to short circuit.
What are the two basic types of dimmers?
The two basic types of dimmers are electronic and autotransformer.
What type of switch is a dimmer?
rotary dimmer switch
A rotary dimmer switch is the most common type of dimmer switch. As you rotate the knob clockwise and counterclockwise, the intensity of the light changes.
How do I know what type of dimmer switch I have?
Determine the number of switches that control the light group. If only one switch controls the light, purchase a single-pole dimmer. If two switches control a single light or a group of lights, you will need a 3-way dimmer. Then look at the bulb type you are going to be using and pick the right type of dimmer.
What causes inductive interference with a dimmer circuit?
This is due to electrical interference causedby mainly the turn off event of the inductive equipment which typically follows the path of least electrical resistance. In this case entering the dimming circuit. The interference is however not limited to dimmers, it can cause lines across an older analogue TV or cause noise on a radio, etc.
What causes the lights on a dimmer to turn off?
The lights on a dimmer might exhibit a shudder, flicker or a quick flick and in may turn off when for example an older magnetic ballast or a fanis turned off (or changing speed). This usually occurs when the inductive equipment, the switch or speed controller is installed close (electrically) to the dimmer as per the diagram below.
Can a fan cause interference with a dimmer?
An inductive appliance or equipment (fan, magnetic ballast etc) can sometimes cause interference with a dimmer when it is installed in close electrical proximity to the dimmer.
What is the voltage of a Lutron dimmer?
Magnetic Low-voltage Dimmer Ratings. The stated VA (volt-ampere) rating is the capacity of the dimmer that includes the magnetic transformer heat losses and the lamp load. A Lutron MLV dimmer UL listed for 1,000 VA can be loaded with a full 1,000 VA lamp load. A transformer dissipates up to 20% of the connected load as heat.