Dimmer for incandescent lamps: types, how to choose, best models and manufacturers
Modern electrical devices provide a number of additional capabilities.Many users have already appreciated dimmers that allow them to smoothly dim the lighting, creating an atmosphere of coziness and comfort in the room.
When choosing such devices, it is important to pay attention to their compatibility with the category of the light source. For example, a dimmer for incandescent lamps is designed specifically for this type of lighting fixture.
In order not to get confused in the store and not to get confused in the variety of offers, you should first find out more information about dimmers, don’t you agree? All the necessary information is collected in our article.
We described the principle of operation, the pros and cons of using dimmers, provided a detailed classification of devices and outlined the rules for connecting them. A review of the best manufacturers and models will help you choose a practical and high-quality dimmer model.
The content of the article:
Operating principle of dimmers
Dimmers are convenient devices that allow you to change the level of illumination in a room, reducing the power of the lamps. Such devices can be based on various solutions.
The simplest device is a conventional rheostat, the disadvantage of which is significant heating during use.
To avoid this, ballast household transformers are included in the power supply circuit to compensate for temporary voltage surges.
More modern and convenient devices are considered to be light controllers, the design of which is based on semiconductors - triacs, thyristors, dinistors.
Such devices guarantee easy control of the unlocking/closing moments associated with a change in the direction of the current in the circuit.
Devices that generate self-oscillations are also made on the basis of transistors: in this case, the main components are high-power field elements.
Read more about the design and operating principle of the dimmer in this article.
Dimmers: advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of dimmers include:
- Comfortable control of lighting brightness. In some cases, this can be done remotely or using an acoustic signal.
- Possibility of using regulators as switches for igniting and extinguishing lamps.
- Reducing the load helps to extend the service life of lighting fixtures.
- Modern models often have a programming function, which allows you to simulate the presence of the owner in case of departure.
The assortment of specialized stores offers a wide range of devices that differ in their design, design, cost, and set of various options.
At the same time, these devices have a number of certain disadvantages. First of all, they are sensitive to overheating, so it is recommended to install them in rooms with a temperature no higher than +25°C.
When using dimmers, a minimum load level of 40 W must be observed. If this indicator is often violated, the regulatory mechanism will fail prematurely.
The supplied pulses may cause radio interference. To compensate for this not very pleasant effect, coils with capacitors (LG filters) are sometimes introduced into the circuit.
If powerful lamps with long filaments are included in the circuit, you should be careful about applying the minimum voltage to them, since the devices may begin to “sing”.
It is strictly forbidden to connect televisions, computers, tablets, or radios to the power circuit. Connecting electronic ballasts (electronic ballasts) and fluorescent lamps is not allowed.
A debatable issue is energy savings when regulating work incandescent lamps.
Research by scientists has shown that the use of modern types of dimmers contributes to some reduction in power consumption, but this figure can hardly be called impressive.
Types of regulators for incandescent lamps
There are several options for classifying devices for controlling the brightness of light bulbs.
According to the principle of operation of regulators
All models can be divided into two large categories:
- mechanical;
- electronic.
Mechanical. These include simple low-cost devices that operate on the principle of a rheostat. They are equipped with a knob, by turning which you can increase or decrease the voltage, which causes a change in the intensity of the light flux.
Mechanical devices produced by different manufacturers have the same design. However, they may vary in quality due to the specifications of the parts used and the care taken to assemble them.
Special components can also be added to the mechanisms of individual models to facilitate smooth control of the process and/or ensure stable operation of the dimmer with a minimum supply of electric current.
Electronic. Regulators are quite complex devices, which are controlled using conventional or touch buttons.
An integral part of such devices is a microcontroller, which significantly expands their capabilities compared to their mechanical counterparts.
Here are just a few additional functions that such devices can be equipped with:
- installation of several control panels located in different areas of the room;
- the ability to regulate the operation of regulators at a distance;
- use of standard and custom modes of light sources;
- connecting a dimmer to a light sensor, thereby achieving automatic adjustment of the intensity of artificial lighting depending on the degree of natural light.
Electronic devices are extremely easy to use; their only disadvantage is their high cost.
By type of device design
Depending on the design features, three main types of dimmers can be distinguished:
- Modular, the appearance of which resembles circuit breakers. Such devices, compatible with incandescent lamps, are usually installed in distribution cabinets. They are adjusted using a button or a key.
- Built-in, with installation in special boxes, the installation of which is provided for at the stage of electrical installation work. They are compatible with various types of lighting fixtures.
- Monoblock, operating similarly to conventional switches. The devices require a two-wire connection, which makes it possible to break the phase wire circuit, causing a load.
To control lighting in residential premises, the latter option is most often used.
According to the installation method of electrical appliances
Depending on the installation option, there are two types of dimmers: internal and external.
Internal installation. This option is used when laying hidden wiring. In this case, the devices are mounted in special boxes, which are specially placed in wall niches.
Outdoor placement. In electrical circuits, surface-mounted dimmers are installed on the surface of the walls.
Thanks to their attractive appearance, they not only have practical significance, but also perform a decorative function, placing accents in the interior.
By way of lighting control
When choosing a model, you need to consider how the switch is turned on/off/adjusted.
Based on this criterion, the following options can be distinguished:
- Turn-push — regulators with a button, pressing which allows you to turn the light on/off, and rotating it allows you to control its intensity.
- Rotary — when turned on, the lamp lights up with a minimum degree of brightness, which increases by rotating the button.
- Keyboards — lighting adjustment occurs by holding down the key.
- Sensory - a modern option that allows you to control the lighting by touching the sensitive plate of the screen.
- Remote — operation is controlled remotely using remote controls, but is often duplicated in the traditional way.
There are also models that use the acoustic principle. In this case, you can turn on or turn off the lighting device with a voice command or clap.
Standard connection option
Connecting the dimmer to the lighting system is quite easy; you just have to take into account that, depending on the modification, the device may have two or four terminals.
The design of monoblock models provides two terminals through which the broken phase of the lighting circuit must be connected. As a rule, such devices are installed instead of switches in an existing socket.
Instructions for connecting the dimmer
The process consists of the following steps:
- First of all, you need to unscrew the bolts and remove the switch, disconnecting it from the electrical wiring.
- Then carefully examine the terminal markings, where the arrows indicate the incoming and outgoing phases. To clarify, you can check it with a tester.
- Observing the polarity, the wires remaining in the socket are connected to the dimmer terminals.
- After this, the dimmer is inserted into the box and secured with screws or another method.
- At the end of the process, electric current is again supplied to the circuit to check the correct operation of the connected equipment.
At connecting a dimmer with four terminals, two of them are attached to the broken phase of the lighting circuit, and the control button is attached to the other two.
Tips for choosing dimmers
When selecting a regulator for incandescent lamps, it is important to take into account all the features listed above. In addition, experts recommend paying attention to a number of additional nuances.
If you plan to place the device in a room whose temperature exceeds +25 °C, it is better to use a model equipped with built-in ventilation or a fuse.
Dimmers are designed for a certain power of lighting fixtures, which cannot be exceeded. If the control device is planned to be connected to a chandelier or group of lamps, the total indicator must be taken into account.
The cost of products varies widely. The most budget options are keyboard and rotary models, but electronic ones provide more options. If desired, you can assemble a simple model DIY dimmer.
Since the operation of electrical equipment is directly related to home safety, it is better to give preference to products from reputable brands whose products are highly rated in user reviews.
The best dimmer manufacturers
Let's name several well-known brands of electrical products, in whose catalogs a significant place is devoted to small products, including various types of dimmers.
Legrand. A large French company, considered a leader in the global specialized market.
Numerous enterprises located in 80 countries produce more than 215 thousand types of products, including various modifications of dimmers.
Legrand dimmers are distinguished by reliable, safe operation and a long service life. The model range is quite wide: in the catalogs you can find both traditional and original options.
The advantages include a flexible pricing policy. The company offers both exclusive expensive devices and devices at a budget price.
Simon. Spanish holding with headquarters in Barcelona. The company specializes in the production of electrical installation equipment of different price categories. The assortment includes luxury product lines and budget class models.
Simon products are practical, functional, and have an original appearance. In the catalogs you can find various modifications of dimmers, including touch and rotary, as well as spectacular backlit solutions.
Dernek GROUP. A large manufacturer that produces all kinds of electrical products under the Lezard brand, its goal is to produce affordable, high-quality products.
Dernek focuses primarily on mass demand, offering products with simple designs at affordable prices.
At the same time, Lezard electrical appliances demonstrate good performance. In their manufacture, high-quality plastic and stainless steel are used, and the well-thought-out mechanism of the device is equipped with a safety lock.
Berker. German family company founded in 1919. All products manufactured under this brand are manufactured at a large enterprise located in Germany in Schalksmühle.
The brand mainly produces products in traditional designs at affordable prices. Berker dimmers are characterized by impeccable quality mechanisms, ease of use, and neat appearance.
Schneider Electric. Founded back in the 19th century, the French company offers a wide range of electrical accessories that are highly valued by professionals.
Branded products include push-button and rotary controls, as well as universal models suitable for different types of lamps.
High-quality products are distinguished by reliability and durability, using modules and replaceable frames. The only disadvantages include the relatively high cost.
ABB. A Swedish-Swiss company that occupies a leading position in the production of high-tech electrical equipment.
In the production of products, impact-resistant and UV-resistant materials are used, which gives the products increased strength and extends their service life.
The design of the dimmers is characterized by elegance and expressive colors; Even basic collections use spectacular fluorescent marks.
The advantages also include ease of installation, comfort in use, and the possibility of modular solutions.
Makel. A Turkish manufacturer that has been producing electrical products for almost four decades.
Product lines are manufactured on German equipment with careful control of all processes. The catalog presents various types of products, which are exported to 40 countries.
Available Makel products are characterized by good performance, practicality and functionality.
To facilitate installation, conductors painted in different colors are used, as well as durable mounting clips that guarantee stable contacts.
The best models for incandescent lamps
Let's give a few examples of popular devices in different price categories, making up a kind of top four.
Universal dimmer DELTA from Siemens
The series includes both push-button and key-based dimmers. Easy to install and operate, the device can be used even with significant loads applied to the lamps.
The devices are suitable for various types of light sources, including incandescent lamps. Some modifications included in the line have additional functions.
These include, for example, the ability to remember the light level set the previous time it was turned on, or the ability to adjust the flow of light from different places in the room.
Celiane dimmer from Legrand
The Celiane series from the famous French manufacturer combines dimmer models compatible with various lamps, including incandescent devices. The line includes products designed for total power from 300 to 600 watts.
The models are made in four exquisite shades: white, ivory, titanium and graphite. In addition to the usual ones, there are also waterproof modifications with high degree of protection.
Of interest is the intelligent version of the device, thanks to which a smooth decrease in lamp power is available over an hour or stepwise adjustment of light intensity.
Rotary push dimmer from ABB
Dimmers 651500842 with a rotary-push mechanism are suitable for use with incandescent lamps with a power of 60-400 W.
Devices in this series, made in original colors, are made of especially durable plastic and metal alloys that are resistant to corrosion and deformation.
The device connection diagram allows you to connect a switch to it. This makes it possible to turn on and off the lights from two different locations, but control access is only provided from the main device.
To turn on the lamp, you need to press the knob, turning which you can increase or decrease the brightness of the lighting.
When you turn off the device, it will remember the last position of the button, so the next time you turn it on, the brightness of the light will be set automatically.
Lezard Mira dimmer
The mechanical device is designed for a load not exceeding 800 watts. The adjustment is carried out by rotating the round knob: this allows you to change the resistance, which leads to an increase or decrease in the brightness of the lamp.
The device is housed in a housing that is standard for this type of electrical fittings. Its design allows you to easily connect the dimmer to already installed lighting circuits.
The advantages of the model include ease of use, long service life, and budget price.
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The presented video describes in detail three modifications of dimmers from the famous French company Schneider Electric, and also describes how to connect them:
Dimmers designed to work with incandescent lamps are convenient devices that increase comfort and quality of life. There is a wide range of products on sale, which may differ in technical solutions, the presence of various functions, and a variety of designs.
Dimmers of different types are extremely easy to install, allowing you to install them yourself. It is only important to strictly follow safety rules and carefully perform all manipulations.
Do you have experience choosing or using a dimmer for incandescent lamps? Or want to ask questions on the topic? Please comment on the post and participate in discussions. The feedback block is located below.
I have a chandelier in every room at home. It seems like nothing unusual, but they all have at least three shades. Accordingly, the same number of light bulbs. Five 60-watt incandescent lamps are already Hell on earth. After an hour, the eyes begin to hurt from the bright light. Well, why not sit in the dark? So I removed the old switches and installed rheostat dimmers from Makel instead. What's especially nice is that they come with a built-in fuse. When there is a short circuit in the chandelier, it immediately de-energizes it. But then the dimmer will have to be changed. They connect easily though. I think anyone can handle this.
Well, there shouldn’t be any problems with a dimmer for an incandescent lamp. At least for a person who is at least somewhat capable of working with his hands and has not skipped labor classes at school. And it’s a useful thing that will allow you to choose the lighting intensity for yourself, and even save energy. The only thing is that I don’t recommend taking overly complex dimmers with unnecessary functions if you are not confident in your skills as an electrician. Timer, acoustic control, etc. - this is all good and convenient, but remember that complex things are more likely to fail.