Dimmer Switch Controlled Lighting Can Make a Blah Room Look Better and Take a Well-Designed Room to the Next Level
Lighting levels can alter the mood or feeling of a room. Besides adjusting the level of light for different times of day, lighting can help you achieve a warm mood, reduce glare and harsh shadows and make a room feel more inviting. Contemporary dimmer switches are the key to changing light levels easily — they’re affordable and easy to install. Control the mood and feeling of your room’s space just by brightening or dimming the light.
In the past, dimmer switches often work well with fluorescent light bulbs causing problems such as flickering or overheating. Modern dimmer switches for LED bulbs work perfectly without causing any problems. The best dimmer switches of today are affordable and match your decor, They are available in many styles and colors and all are easy to install.
What are single pole dimmer switches and three-way dimmer switches?
There are two standard wiring configurations for dimmer switches, single-pole and three-way. In a standard single-pole dimmer, a single switch controls the light. With a three-way dimmer, a single light fixture can be controlled by multi-location dimmer switches. You will need a three-way dimmer and a three-way switch. This lets you dim from one location and turn the lights on and off from another. However, if only one switch controls a light fixture, install a single-pole dimmer. In addition, if two switches control a single light fixture or a group of lights, install a three-way dimmer.
Modern Dimmer switches let you:
- Adjust to brighter light for cooking in the kitchen and then dim for dining
- Prepare for studying and homework with brighter light
- Help switch the function of a multipurpose family room from working at home, to exercise, to relaxing on the sofa just with different light levels
- Make light brighter when you need it to work on a puzzle or dim it for a dinner party
- Save money on your electric bill by reducing energy usage
When Not to Use a Dimmer Switches and Safety Tips
Dimmer switches aren’t meant to work with certain light bulbs or fixtures. If you have fluorescent bulbs, dimmer switches usually should not be used. These can cause current fluctuations that can burn out the motor. Also, dimmers aren’t meant for controlling ceiling fans or their lights.
When installing a dimmer switch, always remember to turn off power at the circuit panel. Confirm that the power is off by flipping the switch and/or testing with a reliable voltage tester.
Ready to upgrade your lighting mood? Give us a call
We can install your dimmer switches or recommend the best light switches for your room. Our Maryland and Delaware-based electricians can handle the chore of installing new switches or relocating switches for you.
