How to install a light dimmer

Most dimmers are designed to fit a standard wall box opening, which makes it easy to replace the switch for any incandescent or halogen light with a dimmer. Dimmers come in two basic wiring configurations: standard single-pole dimmers and three-way dimmers. That means there is one on the other side of the room that turns off the same lights.

You can turn the hall light on or off from. How many handymen does it take to install a dimmer switch? Some dimmers , like the one we’re installing , have stranded wires attached. Photos and show how to install this type of dimmer.

Others have screw terminals instead. To replace a standard switch with a dimmer switch, follow these steps: Turn off the power to the switch at the circuit or fuse panel. It only takes about minutes, steps and screwdriver. We make it even easier with the Lutron Wiring Wizar an interactive tool that provides installation guidance in multiple ways – videos specific to your type of dimmer , a step-by-step interactive guide, and a PDF of the wiring diagram.

Installing a Lutron dimmer switch is easy. Dimmer switches allow you to set the moo help save on electricity and extend the life of your light bulbs. Learn how to install one in your home. First determine the type of light that will be connected to the dimmer. It can also reduce your electricity consumption.

Use these steps to install a dimmer switch. Check out our Wiring Wizard for step-by-step instructions, videos, and wiring diagrams (including 3-way) for installing a dimmer. Safely wire a dimmer switch with help from this video tutorial, which also takes some of the mystery out of electrical wiring.

Dimmer light switches allow you to control the brightness and intensity of a light fixture, which makes them an excellent choice in bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms and other areas where you might want to set a mood or add ambiance to a space. Now a typical circuit will contain a 3-wire cable known as romex. At the breaker box, cut off the power for that room.

Inside, turn the switch on and off a few times to confirm the power is cut. Unlike installing a light fixture, both wires going to the dimmer will be black and usually can be placed on either gold screw. Any electrician will tell you that this will not work for a regular double switch three-way circuit. But installing a dimmer switch is a little more involved than simply swapping out a few wires. There shouldn’t be any silver screws.

From removing the old light switch to correctly wiring the new unit, here is a quick guide on how to install a dimmer switch in your home. Great question about wiring dimmer switches, Bill. No, it does not matter which 3-way switch is replaced with a dimmer switch In fact if you are installing compatible dimmer switches you may install two dimmer switches. Ensure the blades are turning and the lights are burning. Turn on your ceiling fan at the light switch.

If you have a three-way switch configuration, in which the light fixture is controlled by two switches, then you can install a dimmer to replace one of the switches, but make sure to buy a switch identified as a three-way dimmer. Several types are available, including push-on and slide dimmers , but most operate the same way. Wrap the dimmer ’s terminals with electrical tape and install it into the wall box. Step - Add Cover Plate.

That’s all it takes to replace an existing three-way light switch with a more innovative three-way dimmer switch. Unscrew the old switch and disconnect the wires. Whatever the use, a dimmer switch will add ease and elegance to your home. Plus, it can save you money.

The model we installed has an eco-dim feature that guarantees a percent energy savings when compared to a standard switch. In-line lamp cord dimmers , which can be attached to a lamp cor are the least expensive type—they mount directly on the cord. Lamp-base dimmers screw directly into a lamp’s socket. Some are controlled just by touching them. Turn the power back ON at the circuit breaker and confirm that the LED on both Dimmer Switches light up purple.

Before doing any electrical work, make sure the circuit is turned off at the fuse or breaker panel. Next, remove the existing light switch and disconnect the wires. Once you’ve chosen the switch you like best, it’s time to install it. Remember, all electrical work is recommended to be done by a certified electrician.

The general steps in replacing a light switch with a dimmer are the following: Cut off the electricity supply. Never start an electrical project with a. Adjust the home improvement and repair cost with your ZIP Code. Otherwise, the homeowner must replace the fixture or just keep the standard light switch. The installation of dimmer switches is electrical work, so many homeowners may not be comfortable installing the switches on their own.

A professional may need to be hired to install the dimmer switches in any of the desired locations throughout the home. Need to install or replace a 3-way light switch in your home?