With the many technological advances in lighting, it is easier than ever to customize a home lighting system. Yet, a walk through the lighting department at any home store can be overwhelming.
There are so many light bulb options; if a lighting plan includes dimmer switches and dimmable fixtures, it can be challenging to know which bulbs to choose. Which light bulbs for a dimmer switch are the best?
Here are several light bulb options for modern dimmer switches and adjustable fixtures that we recommend.
A dimmer switch is a special light switch that allows you to control the amount of wattage flowing into the bulb, making the light dimmer or brighter. It gives homeowners more control over each room's brightness (or dimness).
The switch controls the amount of resistance to the electrical circuit. The resistance changes the brightness of the lights without causing them to flicker. However, although dimmers can reduce the brightness and glare of the light, they cannot change the light’s emitted color.
Today, dimmer switches and dimmable light bulbs are common in homes, offices, and other spaces.
Dimmer switches have been a trend for a while now; however, with various dimmers and bulbs available, their benefits have only increased.
Dimmer switches work by reducing the amount of power circuited to a bulb, which, in return, reduces the brightness and overall power being used. This can help save money on the electric bill since dimmed lights don’t use as much energy. When using a room during the day, a dimmer switch allows you to use a little light instead of having the lights fully on. If the sun is shining through, you don’t need the full strength of all the lights in the room.
You can also adjust lighting in one fixture or an entire room using apps on smart devices. You can even schedule the lights to change at specific times of the day or on particular days of the week!
Dimmer switches can also improve eye comfort. If you are prone to eye strain, headaches, or migraines, they can help reduce the glare on screens, allowing you not to squint at them. Less squinting and softer light will decrease the tension that causes headaches. Reduced tension can also help you feel more peaceful.
Dimmer lights can also change the room’s mood. For instance, if you want low light to enjoy a movie or feel relaxed, you can do so. But when you want to feel awake and energized, you can turn the lights to their maximum brightness!
If you need help determining which bulbs you can use with your dimmer switches, here are several options to explore.
According to ENERGY STAR, many LED bulbs are dimmable. With the increased energy efficiency and long life of LED bulbs, they are often a great choice for use in dimmable fixtures. Many ENERGY STAR LED light bulbs are dimmable. The packaging will indicate if an LED bulb is dimmable and will include a list of the types of dimmer switches that will work with the bulb.
As one of the most utilitarian bulbs, incandescent bulbs work with any dimmer switch on the market. Inside an incandescent bulb, electric currents move through a wire filament, which causes the filament, and therefore the bulb, to glow.
However, these bulbs may burn out if the voltage is too strong. A dimmable fixture is one way to conserve energy and increase an incandescent bulb's lifespan.
When buying fluorescent light bulbs, it is important to pay close attention to the packaging. Many Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) will not work with dimmers.
For individuals who choose to use CFLs, you may use some versions with dimmable fixtures. It is essential to read labels for any bulbs purchased for use in dimmable lamps and fixtures.
Also, not all dimmers are compatible with all dimmable CFL bulbs. Hiring a professional electrician to install dimmable fixtures and advise which bulbs are compatible is important.
While dimmer switches offer plenty of benefits and remain a stylish home trend, research and test different dimmer switches before choosing one.
Importantly, not all light bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches. If you don’t use a dimmer light bulb, the dimmer switch will not work.
The light bulb packaging will provide plenty of information about the product, including whether it’s compatible with a dimmer switch. Many light bulb companies also include information about the type of dimmer or dimmers you can use with the specific bulb.
However, if you cannot find this information on the light bulb’s box, you can look for it online using the product number. To start, go to the bulb manufacturer’s website and search for the specific product to get the needed information.
When shopping online, you can search for buyer’s guides to help you find the correct light bulb and dimmer switch pairing. These guides can also help you explore the products available. For instance, if you or someone in the home has mobility issues or arthritis, you may want a dimmer switch that is larger and easier to control than a touch-sensitive switch.
If you are shopping in person, you can also ask a knowledgeable salesperson at the store. Most anyone at the home improvement or lighting store can answer your questions about the available light bulbs and their compatibility with dimmer switches. They can also explain the various dimmer switches that are available if necessary.
Whether you want to install dimmer switches in your home or need other electrical services, our team can help. Ragsdale has locations in Dallas, GA and Loganville, GA and serves the entire Atlanta metro area and beyond. Give us a call for expert electrical repair, service and installation.
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