Dimmer switches can be a great solution if you’re looking to create the perfect lighting ambience in your home. Not only do dimmer switches allow you to control the brightness of your lights, but they also help reduce energy consumption and prolong the life of your light bulbs.
In this guide, we explore the benefits of a dimmer switch and teach you how to install one in your home with step-by-step instructions. We’ll also answer your FAQs and help you decide when it’s best to find and book a local electrician.
Ready to make the (dimmer) switch? Keep reading to learn how to install one! This guide covers:
What is a dimmer switch?
What are the benefits of a dimmer switch?
How to install a dimmer switch
When to call in a JustFix professional
FAQs about dimmer switches
A dimmer switch is a device that allows you to adjust the brightness of a light fixture. Unlike a standard on/off switch, a dimmer gives you control over how much electricity flows to the light bulb and how bright the light is.
Dimmer switches work with various types of bulbs, including LED, halogen, and incandescent. However, it’s important to check compatibility with your bulbs and light fittings before installation.
Dimmer switches offer several advantages, both aesthetically and economically. Here are a few benefits of a dimmer switch:
Installing a dimmer switch is a manageable project you can carry out yourself. However, it does involve working with electrical wiring, so if you’re unsure you should contact a professional electrician.
Working with electricity can be dangerous if not done correctly. A qualified electrician will be experienced in installing dimmer switches, so they’ll be able to carry out the job safely and effectively.
If you have prior experience working with electrical wiring and are confident in your abilities, you can install a dimmer switch at home. Here’s how!
Before you start, gather your tools and materials. You’ll need:
The first and most important step is to turn off the power. This is crucial to ensure your safety as you work with electricity. Locate your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box and turn off the power to the room where you’ll be installing the dimmer switch.
Usually, there’ll be switches labelled according to room. If it isn’t clear which switch you need to turn off, flip the main switch, which will turn everything off.
As an extra safety precaution, you could use a lock-off device or padlock, especially if somebody else is in the house. This signals to others that you’re working on the switch, so you won’t risk someone turning the power back on unknowingly.
Use a screwdriver to remove the faceplate from the existing switch and gently pull it out of the wall to expose the wiring.
Use an approved voltage tester to confirm that no electricity is flowing to the switch. Then, use the probes to touch each of the terminals (e.g., earth-to-terminal and terminal-to-terminal) on the existing switch to check it’s safe to work with.
If no light illuminates on the voltage tester, the circuit is isolated, and it’s safe to proceed.
Before connecting your new dimmer switch, it’s crucial to understand the wiring and the terminal labels on your old switch.
You’ll likely find the following wires:
Switch terminals are usually labelled to show their function. Here’s how to identify the switch terminals:
Before you go any further, take a clear photo of the old switch and wiring. This will help you reconnect everything properly later and help you get back on track if you run into trouble changing your switch.
Unscrew the terminals on the back of the old switch to release the wires. As you disconnect each wire, label it with insulation tape or sleeving (which will stay attached during installation) or jot down its terminal connection (eg. COM, L1, L2) as you go.
As you do this, check for fraying or damage. Stop and consult an electrician if you find a wire in bad condition. Once all wires are disconnected, gently pull the old switch away from the wall box.
Examine your dimmer switch. The terminals should be labeled similarly to the old switch. Connect the following wires to the following terminals:
Ensure the wires are securely fastened and no exposed wire is visible outside the terminals. You can wrap electrical tape around the connections for extra safety.
Carefully fold the wires back into the wall box behind the switch, ensuring they aren’t pinched or strained. Then, screw the dimmer switch onto the wall.
Switch the power back on at the circuit breaker/fuse box. Test the connection by turning on the dimmer switch and adjusting the brightness.
If the dimmer or lights don’t work after testing, or if you encounter persistent issues like buzzing or flickering, turn off the power and consult an electrician.
When installing a dimmer switch, avoiding common pitfalls can save time, prevent damage, and ensure a safe, functional setup. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of and important considerations to keep in mind:
Finally, make sure that:
Installing a dimmer switch yourself is possible, but it’s not the most straightforward task. If you don’t feel confident identifying and handling wires and connections, it might be better to leave it to a professional. Moreover, if done incorrectly, you could encounter electrical faults leading to fires, electric shocks, or short-circuiting.
Here are some examples of when it’s better to leave it to the experts:
Our accredited electricians are experienced in installing dimmer switches. Simply use the JustFix app or website to share a few details about the job, and we’ll connect you with an accredited fixer in your local area.
Yes, you often need dimmable light bulbs to use with a dimmer switch. Not all bulbs are designed to work with dimmers, and non-dimmable bulbs can cause flickering, buzzing, or even damage the bulb or switch. Bulbs marked as ‘dimmable’ are specifically designed to work with dimmer switches and allow smooth brightness adjustment. LED, halogen, and incandescent bulbs are all available in dimmable options.
Yes, but you need to make sure both the dimmer switch and the LED bulbs are compatible. Not all dimmers work with LEDs, so look for switches labelled ‘LED-compatible.’ Similarly, your LED bulbs should be marked as “dimmable.” If your bulb and switch are incompatible, this may result in flickering, buzzing, or a limited dimming range. Always verify the dimmer’s wattage rating to avoid exceeding the maximum load for safe operation.
Dimmer switches regulate the amount of electrical current flowing to a light fixture, allowing you to adjust the brightness. Most modern dimmers operate by ‘phase-cutting,’ essentially rapidly turning the current on and off within each electrical cycle. By reducing the time the current is on, the dimmer reduces the total energy reaching the bulb, resulting in lower brightness. Older dimmer switches work by increasing the electrical resistance in the circuit. Modern versions are more energy-efficient and compatible with a wider range of bulbs.
Not all light fixtures or bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches. The light fixture must be capable of handling variable power input, and the bulbs must be dimmable. Traditional incandescent and halogen bulbs generally work with most dimmer switches, but you’ll need both dimmable bulbs and a compatible dimmer switch for LEDs. Some fixtures, such as fluorescent lights, typically don’t work with standard dimmers. Always check the specifications of your bulbs and fixtures before installing a dimmer switch to ensure compatibility.