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You can buy dimmable compact fluorescent bulbs at virtually any hardware store these days. Just make sure that the package says that they're dimmable. They're quite a bit more expensive than either standard incandescents or regular compact fluorescents, but they'll save you money over the standard incandescent bulbs in a pretty short time period as well as lasting 10-12 times longer. You certainly do not need to buy any expensive specialized dimmer switches to do this.

incorrect, there IS a special dimmer for dimmable CFLs and LEDs. yes, you do need to make sure you get dimmable leds or cfls. but you DO need the right dimmer.

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13y ago

You can buy dimmable compact fluorescent bulbs at virtually any hardware store these days. Just make sure that the package says that they're dimmable. They're quite a bit more expensive than either standard incandescents or regular compact fluorescents, but they'll save you money over the standard incandescent bulbs in a pretty short time period as well as lasting 10-12 times longer. You certainly do not need to buy any expensive specialized dimmer switches to do this.

If you are using the traditional long fluorescent bulbs, you will need a special, and often expensive, dimmable ballast in the fixture.

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Q: Can you use fluorescent bulbs with a dimmer switch?
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What is the type of lamp uses with dimmer switch?

You cannot use most fluorescent lights with a dimmer. Just about any incandescent bulb WILL work with a dimmer. Occasionally, when a halogen bulb burns out, it will destroy a dimmer switch but halogen bulbs are considered incandescent and other than that little problem they work well with a dimmer.


What wattage dimmer switch should you use?

Remember that dimmers are for incandescent lights only unless you invest BIG BUCKS on dimmable fluorescent lights and fluorescent dimmers. Make sure that the switch that you replace with the dimmer does not control a plug-in outlet unless it is a lamp. You could do harm to an appliance not designed for such use. Otherwise,just add up the wattage of all the bulbs on the dimmer and buy one of the next size rating. So if you have two 60 watt bulbs, two 75 watt bulbs-- that's 270 watts total.Find a dimmer rated for 300 watts or more.


Can you put a dimmer switch on compact fluorescent light bulbs?

I have but if dimmer is on low the light fixture sometimes "hums", can be anoying It also shortens the bulb life, significantly in some cases. But their are also CFL bulbs built to be used with a dimmer switch that avoid these problems.Another AnswerYou should only use CFLs specifically-designed to be used with dimmers in circuits controlled by dimmer switches. There is a proven danger of fire hazard when ordinary CFLs are controlled by dimmer switches and, so, this should NEVER be done.


Can you use a dimmer switch with A19 incandescent bulbs?

Be it a tungsten or LED A19 bulb, both are usable with a dimmer switch. However LED bulbs require special dimmers to work correctly. Normal dimmers, those used for regular tungsten (incandescent) bulbs, use the resistive load of the bulb to allow dimming. Most LED bulbs require other methods to dim the bulb. One stop gap fix to use a regular dimmer is to add a small wattage bulb to the LED bulb circuit. That adds a resistive load to fool the older dimmer. The best option for dimmable LEDs is to ensure you have a dimmer that specifically states it works with dimmable LEDs.


Can you put fluorescent tubes on a dimmer switch?

Yes, as long as it is just incandescent bulb lighting connected to the track. If there is a transformer between the voltage source from the track and the light bulb (e.g. low voltage quartz bulbs) then these fixtures can not be dimmed.


Can you use compact fluorescent bulbs in garage door opener?

Yes, you can you use compact fluorescent bulbs in a garage door opener's lamp holder.


Can a single pole switch can be use as a dimmer?

No a switch just opens and closes a circuit. A switch can be replaced by a dimmer switch. The dimmer switch will fit in the same enclosure that the switch is removed from.


What type of bulbs use phosphors?

fluorescent, LEDs


Do you need special light bulbs for dimmer switches?

If you are using what most of us think of as a normal light bulb, what is called an incandescent bulb, you do not need special bulbs. Any fluorescent light bulb, including the new curly bulbs called CFLs, requires a special ballast. The ballasts are built into the CFLs so you would need to buy bulbs specially labeled for dimmers. Never place a dimmer on a fan, or any motor, unless it is specifically labeled for use with a dimmer.


Which save more energy incandescent light bulbs or fluorescent?

Fluorescent light bulbs use less electricity for the amount of light produced.


Do fluorescent light bulbs use nuclear energy?

They use electricity


Can Spider Lights be Dimmed?

Whether a spider light fixture can be dimmed depends on the specific design and the type of bulbs it uses. Here are the key factors to consider: Dimmable Bulbs: Spider lights that use dimmable bulbs can generally be dimmed. Check the product specifications or packaging to see if the bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches. Dimmer Switch Compatibility: Even if the bulbs are dimmable, the spider light fixture must be compatible with dimmer switches. Some fixtures may come with built-in dimming capabilities, while others may require the use of an external dimmer switch. Built-in Dimmer Functionality: Some spider light fixtures come with built-in dimming functionality. In such cases, you can usually control the brightness directly using a switch or a remote control that comes with the fixture. Dimmer Switch Installation: If your spider light is not dimmable by default, you can still install a dimmer switch on the wall. However, this depends on the type of bulbs used in the fixture. Not all types of bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches, so make sure to use dimmable bulbs. LED Compatibility: If your spider light uses LED bulbs, it's essential to use dimmable LED bulbs and ensure that the dimmer switch is compatible with LED lighting. Not all LED bulbs work well with all dimmer switches, so it's important to check for compatibility. Before attempting to dim a spider light or any other lighting fixture, it's crucial to read the product documentation, including the specifications for both the fixture and the bulbs. If you're unsure about compatibility or installation, it's advisable to consult with the manufacturer or a qualified electrician. Always follow safety guidelines and ensure that any electrical work is performed in accordance with local building codes. If your spider light is part of a larger lighting system or if you have specific product details, you may want to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for accurate information regarding dimming capabilities.