I have replaced the dimmer switch in the lounge today as it would no longer dim, just turn the light on and off.

I have checked that the dimmer switch was the same rating as the old one. It powers a single light with a transformer, the bulbs are those 12v 10 watt style.

The previous dimmer worked fine. This one however causes the light to flicker and cause a good buzz unless its at full brightness.

I know there can be issues with dimming lights with transformers but what is getting me is the other dimmer worked OK with the light.

Is this just a case of a "cheap" dimmer or am i missing a more fundamental point?

Thanks

Ash

You have to fit one that accepts an inductive load (or transformer) otherwise it may blow up. Regards

OK thanks much appreciated.

I have just looked at the old dimmer module and it is a Hamilton Litestat one.

I think this is it:

Link

It does say it suitable for Low Voltage and Electronic Transformers.


- Ash

If it is indeed that part then it looks ok, how many wires does it have? also it usually says on the actual part if it can cope with inductive loads because of the obvious confusion? From memory the inductive type need at least 3 wires for them to work properly?

what the v/a rating of the dimmer and what load is on it?

This is the original dimmer module



It only ever had two wires: Live into common and switched lived into L2.

Don't know much about these but not that the minimum Wattage is 40 - does your lamp match that?

Sorry just realised photo was of old one so guess wattage is OK but nevertheless is the new one same wattages?

[Edited on 22/12/13 by Ivan]

Just looking at the packet for the new one

"400 watt 2 way low voltage"

Apparently what you need is "Intelligent Dimmer (IQ Dimmer)" they are specifically designed for inductive loads. Others may or may not work depending on the inductance of the primary of the transformer.

whats the MINIMUM V/A rating on the new dimmer and what load is on the end of it?

Daniel is this what you're asking?

It says on the bit of paper that came with the dimmer.

Min load 60w to Max Load 400w. Its a 240v dimmer.

- Ash

yes . that means the minimum the dimmer will dim (properly) is 60 v/a. how many 10 watt capsule lamps are in the light fitting?

Just counted 9, I have just noticed 1 has blown.

90w currently 100w in about 5 mins :-).

[Edited on 22/12/13 by ash_hammond]

Thanks for the help gents. I realised that another light in the house used the same dimmer as the dodgey one....

Swapped it over this morning to test and the light correctly dims. Just going to order the exact same dimmer online.

Cheers

Ash