Can I Use A Dimmer Switch With Fluorescent Bulbs

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.

Can i use a dimmer switch with fluorescent bulbs.

Occasionally when a halogen bulb burns out it will destroy a dimmer switch but. A common fluorescent bulb will not work with a dimmer installed for incandescent lighting. This overheats the bulb and can actually cause it to light on fire. There are special dimmers and ballasts which when used together provide the fluorescent lighting that can be dimmed.

This is because they are not compatible with the ones used for fluorescent lamps. Tip 4 be aware of the dangers. Some dimmers such as this one are compatible with dimmable cfl bulbs. You need to purchase a special type of dimmer switch that s made especially for fluorescent lights.

Use the right dimmer switch. So be sure to tell all your friends. The answer is yes but certain considerations apply. Your hardware store will be able to give you the best advice.

Unfortunately that is not the case and the same is true of dimmable fluorescent bulbs paired with fluorescent dimmers. Non dimmable cfls shouldn t be plugged into dimmer switches. Before fitting the dimmer switch make sure it is the exact type and not the ones made for the incandescent bulb. You cannot use most fluorescent lights with a dimmer.

You must make sure you purchase the correct type of dimmer switch as those made for incandescent lights won t work with fluorescent lights. While there aren t a ton of documented cases of fires being started by cfls being connected to dimmer switches there are some. Because of the added expense of these fixtures they are common only in commercial applications. Not everybody takes the time to read the warning labels on everything they buy but this is something we should all be aware of.

This is a pretty serious problem. 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. It is possible to use wall dimmers for both fluorescent and cfl bulbs but each requires a different approach and special hardware.