How to Select the Proper Lighting Dimmer Switch

Adding dimmer switches is a simple, low-cost way to add sophistication to any room. Walk through the lighting section of your local home improvement store and you'll find dozens of dimmer choices. Here's how to pick a dimmer switch that will meet your needs.

Things You'll Need

• Calculator
• An electrician or house blueprints

Instructions

1. If you are replacing multiple switches in your house, consider purchasing a dimmer system that works for the whole house.

2. Dimmer switches must be compatible to the wattage of the light source. To find the wattage of your current lighting, consult an electrician or your house blueprints.

3. Calculate the minimum wattage your new dimmer switch will require by adding 10% (20% if using a 2gang or larger electrical box) to your current lighting wattage.

4. The actual switch mechanism comes in several styles. Those with arthritis will find a pushbutton or slide mechanism easier to use than knobs that turn.

5. Purchase your dimmer switches and before installing turn off the electricity in the house.

Tips & Warnings

• Never connect a ceiling fan to a dimmer switch.

• Never connect fluorescent lighting to a dimmer switch. This includes installed ceiling lights as well as fluorescent lamps.

• 12-volt Halogen lighting fixtures require special halogen dimmers; you can connect 120-volt halogen fixtures to regular dimmers.