Can I Use A Dimmer Switch With Fluorescent Bulbs

You must make sure you purchase the correct type of dimmer switch as those made for incandescent lights won t work with fluorescent lights.

Can i use a dimmer switch with fluorescent bulbs. You need to purchase a special type of dimmer switch that s made especially for fluorescent lights. Use the right dimmer switch. Unfortunately that is not the case and the same is true of dimmable fluorescent bulbs paired with fluorescent dimmers. Occasionally when a halogen bulb burns out it will destroy a dimmer switch but.

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. Tip 4 be aware of the dangers. You can visit your local hardware store if you don t know the difference between the two. Some dimmers such as this one are compatible with dimmable cfl bulbs.

This overheats the bulb and can actually cause it to light on fire. This is because they are not compatible with the ones used for fluorescent lamps. Non dimmable cfls shouldn t be plugged into dimmer switches. While there aren t a ton of documented cases of fires being started by cfls being connected to dimmer switches there are some.

The easiest way to ensure that your light bulbs and dimmer controls are compatible is to check the lamp s manufacturer spec sheet or dimmer compatibility sheet. So be sure to tell all your friends. A common fluorescent bulb will not work with a dimmer installed for incandescent lighting. You cannot use most fluorescent lights with a dimmer.

After achieving to collect all the mentioned things we still cannot ensure the dimming will have decent quality. The answer is yes but certain considerations apply. Not everybody takes the time to read the warning labels on everything they buy but this is something we should all be aware of. Before fitting the dimmer switch make sure it is the exact type and not the ones made for the incandescent bulb.

It is possible to use wall dimmers for both fluorescent and cfl bulbs but each requires a different approach and special hardware. This is a pretty serious problem. Your hardware store will be able to give you the best advice.