The Basic Guide to Dimmable Light Bulbs: What Are They and How Do You Use Them?

dimmable light bulb uk

Dimmable light bulbs exist to help you control the brightness of your lights, something that is not as simple as it sounds. Most standard light bulbs put out the same amount of light no matter how much electricity you feed them; a dimmable bulb can reduce that light output like a dimmer on a wall lamp. This article will explain what dimmable light bulbs are, why you might need one and some different types available on the market today. You’ll also get recommendations for the best dimmable light bulbs for your home and an explanation of how they work…

What You Need to Know About Dimmable Light Bulbs

A dimmable bulb is any light bulb that can be turned down or off, even if it was not designed to be used that way. Dimmable light bulbs exist to help you control the brightness of your lights, something that is not as simple as it sounds. Most standard light bulbs put out the same amount of light no matter how much electricity you feed them; a dimmable bulb can reduce that light output like a dimmer on a wall lamp. Dimmable light bulbs are the most energy-efficient way to control brightness and are more expensive than standard light bulbs. They also last about 10% longer than incandescent bulbs and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The best way to get the most out of your dimmable bulbs is to install dimmers.

How Do Dimmable Light Bulbs Work?

Dimmable light bulbs use a special coating inside the bulb that lets them respond to a signal from a dimmer switch. This coating is very similar to the hot coating found on halogen light bulbs. It’s a thin layer of metal oxide that looks like metal foil. A dimmer switch sends an electric current through two wires in the wall, which are connected to two metal contacts. When electricity is flowing through the wires and contacts, it creates a magnetic field that pulls the dimmer switch’s metal contacts toward each other. When the contacts close, the field disappears, and the contacts separate again. This action opens and closes an electrical path through the circuit, which changes the amount of current flowing through the circuit. Dimmers are designed to use very little power, so they don’t create a significant load on the circuit. They operate on such a low current that they can’t even close the contacts inside the bulb.

Buildiro’s Dimmable Light Bulbs Choice

Which Type of Dimmable Light Bulb Should I Buy?

Dimmable light bulbs come in two types: incandescent and CFL/LED. Incandescent bulbs are the most common type of dimmable bulb, but they don’t last as long and aren’t as energy-efficient as a CFL or LED bulb. CFLs and LEDs are more expensive than incandescents, but they last longer and use less energy. The best CFLs for dimming are labeled as “dimmable.” The best LED bulbs for dimming are also labeled as “dimmable.” CFLs and LEDs don’t have to be marked “dimmable,” but most dimmable CFLs and LEDs are. If you have an older fixture with a low-voltage dimmer, you’ll need to look for a special CFL or LED bulb. You should also look for a dimmable bulb if you want to install a dimmer switch in a room where you don’t already have one.

Why Should You Install Dimming Light Fixtures?

Dimmers are useful in any room where you need to control the amount of light. This includes bedrooms, nurseries and living rooms. But they’re particularly important in areas where you need to protect valuable items or reduce glare on computer screens. They’re also helpful if you have an medical condition that makes you sensitive to light. Dimmers are particularly useful for protecting electronics from screen glare, because you can turn the light down to a level that protects your eyes without dazzling your computer screen.

FAQs

How do I know if my light fixtures can be dimmed?

If you have a wall switch, the easiest way to find out is by testing your light fixtures with a low-voltage dimmer. If the light dims, you can install a standard wall dimmer switch. If you don’t have a wall switch, you can still install a low-voltage dimmer. Just make sure the dimmer is rated for the amperage of your light fixture.

Are there any disadvantages to using dimmable light bulbs?

You should be careful not to leave the lights on with a dimmer set at a low level, since the bulbs will burn out quickly.

Should I use a dimmer switch on all my light fixtures?

No, you should only install a dimmer switch where you need it. You should use a standard wall switch for normal lights, but if you need to control brightness in other rooms, you can always add a dimmer switch later.

Can I use a dimmer with a fan?

Yes, although it’s not recommended for ceiling fans. A wall switch can control both the fan and the light, but a dimmer switch controls only the light.


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