What rooms should have dimmers? 5 Best Rooms for a Dimmer Switch 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. Can you have dimmer lights in the bathroom? – Related Questions
Full Answer
Where can I use a dimmer switch?
When people think of dimmer switches, they often think of dining rooms or entry halls, which are common areas to find them. However, replacing a light switch with a dimmer can be useful in many different rooms and areas around a home:
How do I know what type of dimmer I Need?
Determine the number of switches that control the light group. If only one switch controls the light, purchase a single-pole dimmer. If two switches control a single light or a group of lights, you will need a 3-way dimmer. Then look at the bulb type you are going to be using and pick the right type of dimmer.
How many light bulbs do I need for a 50 watt dimmer?
Say you have six 50 W lights in a room, but they are split, there are 3 lights per dimmer. You will need two 150 W or bigger dimmers in this case. With a wide array of control options, styles, and colors, you can choose from hundreds of stand-alone dimmers.
Should you add a dimmer to your light bulb?
Also, adding a dimmer can give the effect of candlelight without introducing a fire hazard. For better relaxation at home, lower the lights before taking a luxurious bath. • Bedroom - Rarely do you truly need bright light in the bedroom.
Do you agree that these are the best rooms for a dimmer switch?
What is a double dimmer switch?
How to set the tone for a romantic dinner date?
What is the Happy Outlet number?
Can you use a dimmer switch in the kitchen?
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Where should I put dimmers in my house?
5 Best Rooms for a Dimmer SwitchLiving 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.
Where should dimmable lights be?
Locations for Installing a Dimmer SwitchBathroom. Being able to dim the lights first thing in the morning will allow you to start your daily routine without a bright light assaulting your eyes, providing an easier transition from sleeping to waking. ... Bedroom. ... Kitchen. ... Hallways. ... Living room or den. ... Porch.
Which lights should be dimmable?
The most common bulbs that can be dimmed are:Fluorescent light bulbs. ... LED light bulbs. ... Incandescent and halogen light bulbs.
When should you use a dimmer switch?
Why Use Dimmers?Set the Mood. Create lighting for a dramatic effect or a softly romantic mood. ... Flexibility. Change the light level in your rooms to suit any activity, from entertaining to watching movies on television, reading, working and dining.Productivity. ... Energy Savings.
Can you put dimmer switch anywhere?
A dimmer switch can be installed anywhere that an existing on or off switch is in place. Replacing the current toggle switch with a dimmer switch will allow you to change the lights' brightness, so long as you are using a light bulb that is compatible with the dimmer you have chosen.
Should living room lights be dimmable?
Why Dim? You do a lot of living in your home, and your lighting should be adaptable enough to set the stage for a wide range of activities. Dimming not only provides options, but also increases savings potential by allowing for periods of lower energy use without turning the lights off all the way.
Should you put a dimmer in bathroom?
You can have a dimmer switch in the bathroom, provided it's installed far enough from damp zones, and it should be sealed to protect from dampness. Dimmer switch pull cords are a safer option. You can also get or install the dimmer outside the bathroom.
Should kitchen lights be dimmable?
Modern undercabinet lighting designs include modular tracks that customize to your kitchen layout. Dimmable lighting is ideal, as it doubles as ambient light or even safety lighting when the cook's all done with the prepping and cleaning. The mistake: Too many recessed lights.
Should I have dimmable lights in bathroom?
Dimmable fixtures are invaluable in versatile spaces and bathrooms are often just that. While a vanity light at full intensity is perfect for primping and shaving in the morning, a bright bathroom can disrupt circadian rhythms at bedtime and during those quick trips in the middle of the night.
How do you know if you can use a dimmer?
Check The Light Bulb Check if the light bulb you are about to use is dimmable. Dimmable light bulbs work fine on a non-dimmable circuit; however, non-dimmable light bulbs will not work on a dimmable circuit. You can find this information on product packaging or on our product listing pages.
What are the do's and don'ts in using light dimmer?
Here are a few dimmable LED lighting dos and don'ts:Do Purchase 'Dimmable' LED Lights. It may sound obvious, but it is a common misconception that any LED light can be dimmed. ... Do Read the Specifications. ... Do Purchase From Renowned Brands. ... Don't Use Just Any Dimmer. ... Don't Buy LEDs Before Buying A Dimmer.
Do not use with dimmers?
Yes, you heard it right, one should never use normal light bulbs with dimmer switches because if you do so, the light will not perform well, it may appear fine in the beginning, but with time you will start noticing the difference in the intensity of the light.
What are the do's and don'ts in using light dimmer?
Here are a few dimmable LED lighting dos and don'ts:Do Purchase 'Dimmable' LED Lights. It may sound obvious, but it is a common misconception that any LED light can be dimmed. ... Do Read the Specifications. ... Do Purchase From Renowned Brands. ... Don't Use Just Any Dimmer. ... Don't Buy LEDs Before Buying A Dimmer.
Where should you position up and down lights?
Up-lighting: Lights placed close to the base of subjects can provide dramatic emphasis when pointed upwards. Down-lighting: Down-lighting is placed above a subject and highlights it from there to create a serene atmosphere.
Can you use dimmable bulbs anywhere?
You can still use dimmable LEDs if you don't have a dimming switch installed. These bulbs will work at 100% output and they will work just as efficiently as if they were being used with dimmable switches. Of course, you won't be able to enjoy the dimming feature, which is the main USP of dimmable LED bulbs.
Does it matter where the dimmer goes in a 3 way switch?
If you only have 2 locations, the dimmer can go at either location. If you have 3 or more locations, it can only go at the beginning or end. On the 3-way switch there is a black screw. This should either have the power coming into the circuit or the wire going up to the light.
Do you agree that these are the best rooms for a dimmer switch?
Do you think some of these lighting options are overkill, or would you use a dimer in every room? Share your favorite spots for a dimmer switch with us in the comments below, or on Facebook.
What is a double dimmer switch?
In the bedroom, we recommend a double dimmer switch: one for lighting, and one for your ceiling fan. This gives you total control over your lighting and temperature preferences while you sleep. Dimming the lights can be ideal for winding down with a book before your drift off or setting the mood for romance.
How to set the tone for a romantic dinner date?
Nothing sets the tone for a romantic dinner date or a cozy gathering with friends like perfect lighting. Use your dimmer switch to enhance the ambiance for your dining experience, and add a couple of candles while you’re at it.
What is the Happy Outlet number?
If you need any electrical repairs, replacements, or upgrades in your Carson City home, contact The Happy Outlet! Give us a call at 833-2B-HAPPY to schedule an appointment and get started.
Can you use a dimmer switch in the kitchen?
If you have ever snuck out of bed to make a midnight snack, you can appreciate the value a dimmer switch would bring to the kitchen. Chop, smear, mix, or heat safely without the added risk of waking up the rest of your family. If your kitchen is adjacent to your living room or dinning room or if you have an open floorplan, it can be advantageous to have consistent dimming abilities in all three rooms.
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Why Should I Consider Dimmer Light Switches in My Home?
There are many good reasons to install dimmer switches around your house. When the lights aren't functioning at full capacity, they use less energy and save bulb life. Dimming lights can make a room more comfortable and create a lovely ambiance for a party, gathering, or event.
Why does my dimmer switch buzz?
If you notice a dimmer switch buzzing, you may need to simply change out the light bulb (s) in the fixture with new ones or a lower wattage. A humming dimmer switch can also indicate that the switch has insufficient wattage capacity or is of poor quality.
What is a dimmer switch?
Dimmer switches are an economical, easy way to make a big difference in your home’s lighting appeal, as well as in your energy use. An often overlooked decorating secret, dimmers can change the mood of a room with just a touch. Installing a dimmer switch or changing one out is a fairly simple DIY task that doesn’t take much time, effort or expense.
What are some examples of small changes in a home?
Dimmer switches are a great example of how small changes can make a big difference in a home. It’s surprising how taking adjusting a small component, like lighting, can add a whole new perspective to a room. Next > Light Your Home More Efficiently.
How to keep your bedroom a place for rest?
In order to keep your bedroom a place for rest, incorporating a dimmer light switch can inform your body that the day is winding down and encourage better sleeping habits . If bright light is needed, result to windows and skylights for a natural source.
Why do you need to dim the lights in the morning?
Bathroom. Being able to dim the lights first thing in the morning will allow you to start your daily routine without a bright light assaulting your eyes , providing an easier transition from sleeping to waking. Also, adding a dimmer switch can give the effect of candlelight without introducing a fire hazard. For ultimate relaxation at home, lower the lights before taking a luxurious bath.
How to turn off the power to a switch?
Turn off the electricity to the switch, room or zone at your home’s main fuse box/circuit breaker. Remove the cover, and always test the wires with a voltage detector to verify that the power is off. Turn the switch to the off position. 3.
Why do light bulbs burn out?
Some bulb or lighting fixtures tend to burn out over time due to being unable to adjust the amount of voltage they output. Dimmer light switches can help you avoid this problem since they allow you to conserve the voltage your bulbs consume.
What is the difference between analog and digital dimmer switches?
Whereas analog dimmer switches transport to the LED driver, digital models make use of signals in order to control its response. These usually contain much more high-end functions and are adjusted through a digital layout. Furthermore, they don’t require as much electrical works and maintenance to be done on them like analog switches.
Why do dimmer switches burn out?
Dimmer light switches can help you avoid this problem since they allow you to conserve the voltage your bulbs consume.
Can you replace a dimmer light switch?
A lot of homeowners are only able to mitigate this problem by replacing their light switches with a newer model. But by installing a dimmer light switch, you can ensure that your home has a more comfortable atmosphere since you can control your bulbs’ brightness in any way you need.
Do regular dimmers work with flourescent bulbs?
I LOVE dimmers, but be aware there are some limitations. Regular dimmers don't work with compact flourescent bulbs, and if you want to dim from 2 locations on a 3-way, you need to go to a VERY expensive dimmer set. Also, if you're doing the wiring yourself, be aware that it can be really hard to stuff all those wires in a box with multiple dimmers -- I nearly tore my hair out wiring one box with three dimmers in the 3-gang box!
Can you dim a dimmer in a closet?
We're putting them just about everywher- all bathrooms and bedrooms, living room, office, kitchen, dining room. No dimmer in closets (used fluorescents) or laundry. If you have 3-way or 4-way switches, you'll only be able to dim from one location unless you get "smart dimmers".
Where do we put dimmers?
We put dimmers everywhere except the pantry, coat closets, and the step lights, which are on dusk/dawn sensors. We also have dimmers for the outside lights.
Does DH use dimmers?
DH installed dimmers in our bathrooms & we love them. He is very sensitive to lights, so he uses lower light levels if he is showering, etc. & only puts them up to full brightness when he needs to shave. The ones that DH installed look like on ON/OFF light switch so they aren't clunky like some dimmers can be.
Do dimmers work in kids bedrooms?
We also included dimmers in the kids bedrooms. If you put them on really low they work great as a night light for little ones that are afraid of things that go bump in the night!
Do sconces have a dimmer?
Quite a number of the sconces have a dimmer, if not all.
Can you replace a normal switch with a dimmer?
Plus, it's so easy to replace a "normal" switch with a dimmer (even I can do it!) that you're never stuck with your initial decision.
What dimmer switch should i use?
Determine the number of switches that control the light group. If only one switch controls the light, purchase a single-pole dimmer. If two switches control a single light or a group of lights, you will need a 3-way dimmer.
What is a halogen dimmer?
Halogen/Incandescent Dimmers are used to control halogen and incandescent bulbs. You are not supposed to use them to control CFL and LED bulbs or dimmable CFL and LED bulbs. If you use them for that, it may result in bad performance.
What is the best dimmer for halogen bulbs?
Leading edge dimmers are the most popular of the two. They’ve been around for a long time and are traditionally used to dim normal incandescent and halogen bulbs. They have a much higher wattage range usually anywhere between 250W and 1000W and because of that they don`t operate well with low wattage LED bulbs, though this can be achievable if the required tolerances are met.
What is a multi location dimmer?
Multi location dimmer. Plugin dimmers are used to dim bulbs in table and floor lamps. You just plug it into your lamp and wall socket. It helps you save energy and extends the lifespan of your bulbs. Example of Lutron plug-in dimmer. Plug-in lamp dimmer.
What is a single pole dimmer?
Single-pole dimmers are used for lights controlled from a single dim switch in one spot. Example of a Leviton single pole dimmer. Three-way dimmers are used for lights controlled by one dimmer and one or more switches in other places. Here`s a Lutron 3-Way Dimmer.
How many watts does a dimmer use?
Dimmers come in many different wattage models. The most typical dimmer wattage ratings are 150 watts, 300 watts, 600 watts and 1000 watts. 150 watt ra ted dimmers are usually used for a single bulb. You can find the wattage rating usually on a sticker on the light fixture.
What is a high wattage dimmer?
High Wattage Dimmers. These dimming devices are used to control high wattage lighting, mainly 1000 W. If you have a fixture with over 600 W your choice should be a HWD. An important thing to remember is that, use only one type of bulb in a lighting fixture, otherwise it may cause some trouble in performance.
What Exactly Are Dimmers?
The control for a dimmer is like a little sliding lever that you can use to increase or decrease the brightness for lighting in a room. It’s also known as ‘mood lighting’. These are great if you want to have a nice romantic dinner with your significant other, or if the bathroom is too light in the mornings, you can turn the lighting down a bit.
What Kind of Dimmer Controls Are There?
There are several primary styles of dimmer controls used in homes today, including:
What About Plug-In Dimmers?
Plug-in dimmers are a simple and affordable alternative to the main dimmer types detailed above. For less than $20 or even $15, you can find plug-in dimmers that allow you to turn your lamps into dimmable light sources.
Why Should You Have A Dimmer In Your Home?
When you have a dimmer, you can dim these lights’ brightness, thus relieving the strain on your eyes.
How much does a plug in dimmer cost?
Plug-in dimmers are a simple and affordable alternative to the main dimmer types detailed above. For less than $20 or even $15, you can find plug-in dimmers that allow you to turn your lamps into dimmable light sources.
What are the different types of dimmer switches?
The three main types of dimmer switches are resistive, fluorescent, and inductive dimmers. Resistive dimmers are used for lamps with a filament, inductive dimmers for LED lights, and fluorescent dimmers for fluorescent lights. Dimmer controllers include slide dimmer with or without a preset switch, tap, and rocker dimmers.
How much does it cost to invest in a dimmer?
If you want to save money and forego the rewiring, invest under $20 in a plug-in dimmer. Otherwise, you won’t regret having new dimming lights put in your home. Dimmable lights create a great mood, keep your lights alive for longer, and are easy to use.
Why is it important to have a gym area in your home?
Having an area to do your workout around your house is important for people with fitness goals. Many professionals advise their clients to have a place in their homes where they can exercise for convenience. Some people turn the basement into their home gym area.
Why should the living room be set up?
The living room area should have an excellent set up to give a good visual impression since it is a central point where people living in the house often meet.
What is a game room?
Game Room. Unlike traditional homes, game rooms have become common in many modern homes. It one of the fun rooms in a house and it can be used as an entertaining room. It can also be used as a place to play pool and other games like video games.
What is a home library?
A home library is mainly used for keeping books and for reading purposes. It should be a quiet and comfortable area where one can concentrate with minimal interruptions. Some people use the family room as their library If there are no enough rooms in the house.
What is the lowest level of a house?
9.Basement. A basement is mostly located below the ground floor, and it is the lowest level in a home. People use the basement to shelter during storms and tornadoes and other unfavorable weather. Having a basement will sometimes depend on where you are living since some areas don’t prefer having them.
Why do people have guest rooms?
It is important to have a guest room so that if a family member or friends come to visit and spend the night, they have a place to sleep. This makes the guests enjoy some privacy and be comfortable while in the house.
Why should every house have a kitchen?
Every house or home should have a kitchen for convenience. It is a room you frequently use to prepare meals for either you or the entire family.
When or Why Would You Want a Dimmer?
A dimmer switch is a great way to add mood lighting to a room. Dimmers can also be set in a place where you prefer to have a certain amount of light in a room at all times. The desired number of lumens you want from a bulb may not exist and using a dimmer is a great way to fine tune that to where you want it every time.
How many watts can a dimmer handle?
For example, it may say 300W LED and 600W Incandescent. A dimmer like this can handle (40) 7 Watt LED bulbs and just (10) 60 watt incandescent bulbs. Therefore, if you are using LED bulbs virtually any dimmer should be fine from a wattage perspective because very few people will have 40 bulbs controlled by one dimmer.
What is a rocker dimmer?
Rocker Dimmer. Rocker dimmers are similar to a toggle dimmer in that you have a slide that sets the dim level but then the rocker switch turns the light on and off. This is also best for those who want to keep the lights at a particular level most of the time and use the rocker to just turn the lights on and off.
What is a rotary dimmer switch?
Rotary Dimmer. A rotary dimmer switch is one where you push the switch in to turn it on and off and then you use the knob to dim or brighten the light.
How does a dimmer work?
When you adjust the dimmer control, it starts to chop up that signal. The stream of electricity will break up in shorter increments as you slide the dimmer control. This signal chopping essentially reduces the amount of electricity that the bulbs will receive which causes them to dim.
Why does my light bulb make a buzzing sound when dimming?
If you do not select the right dimmer for the bulbs you are using then you may get a buzzing or humming sound when you dim them.
What is the best dimmer bulb?
LED Bulbs for a Dimmer. LED bulbs are the most efficient and can be a great option to use for a dimmer. They must be compatible with the dimmer and if paired correctly, you will have great lighting for years. If you do not use an LED dimmer, you may get buzzing or humming.
Do you agree that these are the best rooms for a dimmer switch?
Do you think some of these lighting options are overkill, or would you use a dimer in every room? Share your favorite spots for a dimmer switch with us in the comments below, or on Facebook.
What is a double dimmer switch?
In the bedroom, we recommend a double dimmer switch: one for lighting, and one for your ceiling fan. This gives you total control over your lighting and temperature preferences while you sleep. Dimming the lights can be ideal for winding down with a book before your drift off or setting the mood for romance.
How to set the tone for a romantic dinner date?
Nothing sets the tone for a romantic dinner date or a cozy gathering with friends like perfect lighting. Use your dimmer switch to enhance the ambiance for your dining experience, and add a couple of candles while you’re at it.
What is the Happy Outlet number?
If you need any electrical repairs, replacements, or upgrades in your Carson City home, contact The Happy Outlet! Give us a call at 833-2B-HAPPY to schedule an appointment and get started.
Can you use a dimmer switch in the kitchen?
If you have ever snuck out of bed to make a midnight snack, you can appreciate the value a dimmer switch would bring to the kitchen. Chop, smear, mix, or heat safely without the added risk of waking up the rest of your family. If your kitchen is adjacent to your living room or dinning room or if you have an open floorplan, it can be advantageous to have consistent dimming abilities in all three rooms.
Can I unsubscribe from Happy Outlet?
Example: Yes, I would like to receive emails from The Happy Outlet. (You can unsubscribe anytime)