Dimmers
Dimming saves energy while setting the right light level to improve mood and ambiance. A softer light results in a more comforting, relaxing atmosphere. Brighter lighting is more suitable for normal room use and reading. An easy way to control your lighting is to install a dimmer switch. Dimmers also reduce energy consumption by cycling light and increasing bulb life. Sleek, functional, economical; no matter how you add it up, dimmer switches not only help beautify a home, they also can make life more convenient for homeowners.
Most dimmers cycle the light on and off 120 times per second – faster than your eye can detect. The longer the light is ON versus OFF, the brighter the light output. Likewise, the longer the light is OFF versus ON, the lower the light output and the greater the energy savings. Dimming the light by just 10 percent more than doubles the bulb life.
Dimmer switches come in four popular styles: dial, slide, touch pad, and combination light switch/dimmer slide. Since dimmer switches come in different shapes and each operates a little differently, you should always follow the instructions included with the switch for installation and operation. To use a compact fluorescent bulb on a dimmer switch, you must buy a bulb that’s specifically made to work with dimmers. We don’t recommend using regular compact fluorescent bulbs with dimming switches, since this can shorten bulb life. Using a regular compact fluorescent bulb with a dimmer will also nullify the bulb’s warranty.
