Dimming Compatability
The Essentials…
If your current lighting systems have lights with dimming capabilities, the drivers in use with your lights were chosen due to their ability to reduce voltage, thereby allowing the lights to dim.
When making the change to more energy efficient, LED lighting, it is important to ensure that the newly installed LED dimmable lights are able to dim and fulfil their full functionality. It is possible that your new LED lights will need a new dimming system installed.
We will establish which dimming systems are in use with your existing lighting to check if this is likely to continue to function when your lighting is replaced and upgraded. If the existing dimming system will not enable the new lighting to function properly, we will ensure that we include compatible dimming systems in your return on investment survey and accompanying quotation.
Common Dimming Issues
LED lighting requires dimming systems that are compatible with their electronic drivers. If this is not the case it can lead to an array of issues such as;
Flickering
Incompatible dimming drivers will lead to one or more of your light fittings flickering when turned on, this can be very off putting for room occupants.
Buzzing
Incorrect dimming systems might lead to a buzzing sound when your lights are turned on or dimmed. This can be a frustrating effect for room occupants.
Ineffective Dimming
Incompatibility also can lead to light fixtures that will only dim partially, and not to their full capability.
How Do We Ensure Effective Dimming?
Key Considerations
The Essentials…
Compatible dimmer switches — not all dimmer switches function with all types of dimmable lights. We will ensure to check if the dimmer switch in use will work or help you to upgrade your switches.
Dimmable lamps — Only lamps that have dimming capabilities can be dimmed. We will quote you for dimmable lamps in our survey and quotation where dimmable lights are required or requested.
Wattage compatibility — Dimmer switches have minimum and maximum wattage ratings. During installation we will ensure that the total wattage of the lamps connected to the dimmer switch fall within the correct range.
Load Type — Dimmer switches are designed for different types of loads; such as inductive or resistive. We will confirm that the dimmer switch in place or the new product supplied is compatible with the type load of your lights.
Careful Installation — Dimmable lighting needs to be installed properly to ensure full performance and no damage to the dimmer switch or lights. Our overseeing of lighting installation means these risks are mitigated.
Testing — After installation we will test the dimmer switches to maker sure that the lights dim smoothly and without flickering or buzzing noises. If we encounter issues we will supply further solutions.
At Lightsave, our projects team help clients assess their dimming needs to ensure your new lighting can be dimmed to full capability.
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