Cost of Dimmer Switches
| Dimmer Switches Costs | Zip Code | Units | |
| Basic | Better | Best | |
| Dimmer Switches – Material Prices | $15.00 - $25.00 | $27.00 - $35.00 | $40.00 - $45.00 |
| Dimmer Switches – Installation Cost | $65.00 - $85.50 | $100.00 - $120.00 | $125.00 - $150.00 |
| Dimmer Switches – Total | $80.00 - $110.50 | $127.00 - $155.00 | $165.00 - $195.00 |
Is it hard to install a dimmer switch myself?
You have to check grounding and box size for a safe, first-class job. It's easy to install a dimmer switch, but make sure to upgrade the wiring if necessary to make it safer and meet Electrical Code requirements. We'll show you how to assure a safe installation.
How much does it cost to fit a dimmer switch?
The total labor costs for the installation of a dimmer switch range from approximately $58 to $135 per job. These labor costs normally include the setup for the job as well as any surface touch-up and cleaning upon completion of the job.
Does using a dimmer switch affect the cost of electricity?
no a dimmer does not effect the cost of electric. as lond as you have the light on it is using electric. it doesnt matter if its bright or dim just on or off. Think your electrician is right. Dimmers are just for when you don't want the room bright is all.
How much does dimmer light installation cost?
Dimmer Switch Prices. Dimmers average $10 to $25 each, though there are styles that cost up to $50.Installing new or upgrading to this type will range from $100 to $200.With these, light can be adjusted to soft or bright according to the needs of the homeowner.
How much does a light dimmer switch cost?
Dimmer Switches Dimmers average $10 to $25 each, though there are styles that cost up to $50. Installing new or upgrading to this type will range from $100 to $200.
Can you just buy a dimmer switch?
Imagine being able to control the mood of your home's lighting with just he touch of a switch. You don't need to upgrade to an entire smart home to enjoy this control and flexibility. Simple light dimmers are easy to and quick to install, and they provide the ability to control light throughout your home.
Can I install a dimmer switch without an electrician?
You may be able to install a dimmer switch yourself if you have worked with electricity before, but if you're uncomfortable with the process, you should hire a licensed electrician.
How much does it cost for an electrician to replace a light switch?
Prices for replacing light switches typically range from $65 to $125. This varies depending on the type of switch and whether any changes are made to your home's wiring. Wiring a completely new fixture and switch could take several hours and cost $400 or more.
What should I look for when buying a dimmer switch?
Choose a dimmer with a wattage rating that meets or exceeds the total wattage of all the light bulbs the dimmer will control. For example, if the dimmer controls a fixture with ten 75-watt bulbs, you need a dimmer rated for 750 watts or higher.
Can I put a dimmer on any light switch?
Most light fixtures will work with standard dimmer switches, including those with halogen and incandescent lamps. Determine whether your fixture uses line or low voltage. If you install line-voltage track and rail lights with incandescent bulbs, you can use dimmer switches to control their brightness.
What can go wrong with a dimmer switch?
7 common LED dimming issuesDrop out. This symptom occurs when you are trying to dim the lighting down and the light suddenly cuts out before you slide to the bottom of the switch.Pop on. ... Dead travel. ... Ghosting. ... Flickering. ... Strobing. ... Flashing.
How hard is it to put a dimmer switch in?
Installing a dimmer switch is just as easy as installing a single-pole switch, and adjustable overhead lighting is a great improvement that adds appeal to any home.
Where should dimmers be placed in a house?
Here are the five best rooms for a dimmer switch recommend by our team of expert electricians at The Happy Outlet.Living Room. The living room is a great place to start if you want to give dimmer switches a try, because it's the room where you spend most of your time. ... Dining Room. ... Kitchen. ... Bedroom. ... Master Bathroom.
How long do dimmer switches last?
Dimmer switches typically last 15 years. However, a dimmer can fail due to age, repeated use, or loose wire connections that cause them to short circuit.
Are dimmer switches more expensive?
LED dimmer switches are quite a bit more expensive than a traditional light switch but with good reason. I'd always recommend buying a named brand from a reputable seller.
Do I need an electrician to replace a light switch?
Do I need an electrician to replace a light switch? No. If you're replacing a broken light switch or a like-for-like one, it's a simple task that only requires you to know how to safely isolate the circuit and some basic tools.
What happens if you put a dimmer switch on a non-dimmable light?
Simply, you can't dim non-dimmable LED lights. If you use non-dimmable lights in a dimmer circuit, they will either flicker or just run at full brightness. They will likely burn out faster, too.
Can you make a regular lamp dimmable?
Once your lamp is electrified, you can add a plug-in dimmer to your old-fashioned lamp in less than a minute without needing any tools or wire skills. Simply unplug your light fixture's power cord from the wall outlet. Plug the dimmer into the outlet. Plug the lamp cord into the receptacle on the dimmer.
Do you need special light bulbs for dimmer switches?
On a final note, dimmable electrical lights are fine to use, but all you need to take care of is to use the right electrical light with the right switch to get the safe and best performance. So, this is why you should never use non-dimmable light bulbs with Dimmer switches.
How do I install a dimmer switch?
1:372:44How to Install a Dimmer Switch - Ace Hardware - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake the wire snippers squeeze it together place your thumb and then push. You've removed theMoreTake the wire snippers squeeze it together place your thumb and then push. You've removed the coating on the wire. But you did not cut the copper. A single-pole dimmer like this one has two wires that
How Much Do Dimmer Switches Cost?
Dimmer switches cost between $10 and $35 on average, although some higher-end models can be more expensive. On top of this, installation costs can be between $100 and $200, depending on the service and your location.
How many settings does a dimmer switch have?
Most lights only come with two settings: on and off. But depending on the weather, time of day or your mood, you may need something in between. Dimmer switches give you more control over your lights. Not only do they facilitate a comfortable, livable atmosphere, they’re also highly convenient and may even save you money in the long term. ...
What type of light bulb is best for dimmer switches?
LED light bulbs are the most popular bulbs on the market, but it's important to buy bulbs that work with dimmer switches. You also have the option to purchase incandescent or halogen light bulbs, which are often compatible. You should also consider long-term costs.
Why do you need a dimmer switch?
A somewhat neglected but important benefit of dimmer switches is the potential long-term savings, both in electricity bills and replacement light bulbs. Dimming the lights proportionally decreases the amount of electricity your lights use. Depending on how often you dim them, the total energy consumption of your lights may be cut in half.
Why do people use dimmer switches?
Many homeowners enjoy dimmer switches, and for good reason. Dimmer switches give users a rich gradient of control over their lighting. Homeowners can regulate their light depending on how bright the day is, what their mood is or what kind of atmosphere they'd like to develop.
Do dimmer switches save money?
While dimmer switches and the appropriate light bulbs can be pricier at first, they can save you money over time as they encourage energy conservation. If you expect to dim the lights often, you may find that dimmer switches can provide better results as well as long-term savings.
Are Regular Switches More Affordable Than Dimmer Switches?
Dimmer switches do have a higher initial cost compared to standard ones. Additionally, they require compatible light bulbs that can also be a bit pricier than average. LED light bulbs are the most popular bulbs on the market, but it's important to buy bulbs that work with dimmer switches. You also have the option to purchase incandescent or halogen light bulbs, which are often compatible.
Why are Dimmer Switches so Expensive?
The steep price on dimmer switches and their installation is for several reasons, and here they are.
What are the Components of a Dimmer Switch?
Let’s discuss the extra components inside dimmer switches that add to their cost and value.
Dimmer Switch vs. Standard Switch Price Comparison
Dimmer switches usually cost three to five times as much as a standard switch, not including installation costs. You can purchase a typical light switch on Amazon or any hardware or home improvement store for as little as $3-$5. Of course, there are different levels of switches, and some are fancier or different colors than others.
Advantages of a Dimmer Switch
While many people look at a dimmer switch and think it’s not worth the money, there’s no denying that they offer certain advantages.
Can I Install a Dimmer Switch Myself?
If you want to save money on the overall cost of your dimmer switch, you can optionally install them yourself. However, you should be aware that there are always risks involved when working with electricity, even if you have previous experience.
How to Install a Dimmer Switch
If you’re feeling ambitious and have the right tools for the job, here’s how to save money and install a dimmer switch.
Related Questions
While white is the most common color for all types of switches, dimmer switches are available in a variety of different colors.
What type of light does a dimmer switch work with?
This dimmer switch fits in standard toggle wall plates and offers 250+ lighting levels for LED, CFL, incandescent & halogen bulbs.
How many bulbs can a single dimmer switch control?
A single switch can control up to 17 bulbs, and it’s UL-approved to handle mixed loads with different types of bulbs. This dimmer switch for LED bulbs does not require a neutral wire and can be used with both single-pole or 3-way switch locations. It’s compatible with up to 150W LED or CFL bulbs.
What is a GE dimmer switch?
Designed to work with incandescent, CFL, and LED lights, this dimmer switch utilizes a basic rocker plate and a small slider underneath that controls the brightness of your lighting fixture. It’s compatible with dimmable incandescent bulbs up to 600W or CFL and LED bulbs up to 150W. Keep in mind that this single pole version is designed for lights controlled by one switch.
What is a toggle switch?
This toggle-style dimmer switch is an easy way to upgrade any light switch in your house and control the brightness of LED, CFL, incandescent, or halogen bulbs. The Lutron Toggler Dimmer offers 250 lighting levels, taking your lighting beyond a simple ‘on’ or ‘off’ setting. It’s compatible with single-pole or 3-way wiring and fits into most standard wall plates. Take note that no neutral wire is required when installing this dimmer switch.
How many watts does a CFL dimmer have?
Control your CFL bulbs with this dimmer capable of handing up to 450 watts in either single-pole or 3-way switch locations.
What is a plug in dimmer?
A plug-in dimmer is an easy way to adjust the brightness of bedside lamps or a floor lamp in your living room, without worrying about hardwiring your fixtures and installing permanent dimmer switches. Instead, simply plug the lamp or lighting fixture into a tabletop dimmer, like this version from Leviton. It’s compatible with incandescent, halogen, ...
How long does a Maestro LED+ dimmer last?
The Maestro LED+ is an ideal dimmer for the bedroom and gives you the option for a slow fade to off, ranging from 10 to 60 seconds. Installation is simple since this dimmer switch doesn’t require a neutral wire and can be utilized for both single-pole or multi-location applications. Plus, with 25 different colors of switches, it’s easy to make this light switch blend in with your bedroom’s décor.
How much does a rotary dimmer switch cost?
Rotary dimmer switches are the most common dimmer and average in price from $10 and $12.
What is a dimmer switch?
Dimmer switches, also known as “dimmer controls” or “selector light switches,” allow you to control the different light illumination levels in a room. The circuit allows you to dim or brighten the lights using the dimmer switch.
How does a smart dimmer work?
A smart dimmer switch works wirelessly to control, adjust, and schedule brightness and on/off controls. These types of smart switches allow you to control the brightness of your lights from your phone when not home. Some smart dimmer switches are Amazon Alexa Compatible with Alexa hub. The cost of a smart dimmer switch is $30.
How much does a light switch cost?
Some toggle switches simply flip up and down. However, smart switches can be controlled directly from your phone. The average cost for a light switch is between $2 and $40. The table below lists the different switches available and their cost per unit, not including installation fees.
What do I need to install a light switch?
Besides needing a wall plate, you may also need some other things such as hardware, wiring, and upgrades to the switch itself. If one doesn’t already exist, then a switch box, screws, and wall plate will be required for the installation. The type of switch affects the cost of installation. There are simple toggle switches you flip up and down, and then there are smart switches you can program and run from your phone via Wi-Fi.
How much does it cost to install a light switch?
The average cost for an electrician to complete the basic electrical task of installing a light switch is $40 to $50 per hour. If wire replacement is unnecessary, the entire process is very quick and takes approximately 45 minutes to install one switch. The labor involved accounts for approximately $125 of the project’s final cost. The switch only costs $2 to $40.
How much does a single pole light switch cost?
Most single-pole systems in a home tend to be single pole light switches. This type of toggle light system is the least expensive and ranges in price between $2 and $5.
What is a dimmer switch?
The dimmer switch is a type of potentiometer that adjusts the amount of light in the illumination by controlling the current passing through the lamps. The dimmer enables the brightness of light sources such as LED, Halogen, CFL to be brought to the level desired by the users.
Why dimmer switches are used?
Dimmer switches create an atmosphere. Whether subdued lighting for a stylish evening meal or a work light switched to suit ambient conditions: it is the ability to adapt lighting quickly and easily that makes dimmers such an attractive option. Besides, dimmers save energy and extend the life of lighting elements.
How does a dimmer switch work?
Dimmer switches operate using the leading-edge phase principle. At the beginning of each sinusoidal half-wave, the dimmer blocks the current to the lamp, it is non-conducting. The TRIAC (the electronic switch in the dimmer) is only connected after the startup of a user-definable delay time tz, which energizes the connected loads.
What is a universal dimmer?
The universal dimmers can be used for many kinds of lamp loads: incandescent lamps, high-voltage halogen lamps, and low-voltage halogen lamps with magnetic or electronic transformers. The touch dimmers are particularly user-friendly. Switching them on and off is as simple as using a normal light switch. They can also be dimmed up or down to the required brightness. The memory function enables a specific dimming value to be stored, which is then automatically switched to when the dimmer is activated. A universal dimmer can also be switched and dimmed from various points using conventional pushbuttons.
How do touch dimmers work?
The touch dimmers are particularly user-friendly. Switching them on and off is as simple as using a normal light switch. They can also be dimmed up or down to the required brightness. The memory function enables a specific dimming value to be stored, which is then automatically switched to when the dimmer is activated.
