Dimmer Switch

A Dimmer switch is a device which controls the current sent to a light fixture or a motor. The device can increase or decrease the current going to the source it is attached to and thus increase or decrease the light or speed of the motor respectively. When multiple dimmers are encased together, the set is called a dimmer pack or dimmer rack.

Dimmers are one of the most popular upgrade choices among business and homeowners. In a recent survey dimmesr were found to be one of the most popular items purchased by remodeling homeowners. Many people replaced their old light switches with Lutron dimmers due to the features and benefits these dimmers provide. The Dimmers can be easily installed by just about anyone regardless of their knowledge of electricity by simply reading the instructions. Please visit our section on 'How to install a dimmer' to see how its done.

Todays dimmers have changed the whole concept of lighting controls. With a wide array of colors and styles dimmers are now viewed as a stylistic statement and not just a device to turn the lights on and off.

History of a Dimmer Switch

Dimmers were first introduced by Granville Woods in 1892 for theaters. The early dimmers were made for commercial purposes such as theaters and halls and were produced using heavy transformers and resistors. The quality of these early dimmers was not very good and they created electrical noise in the circuit. In the 1960’s, Lutron made the first electronic solid state dimmer. The dimmer was made from solid state components which were more efficient and reliable. The wear and tear of the dimmer circuitry dramatically dropped and the life of dimmers changed from months to years. After continued progress in the electronics world the whole concept of dimmers changed. Instead of large heavy dimmers, small and light dimmers were introduced and began to dominate the market.

Manufacturers of Dimmers

After the beginning of a new era in the electronics world, many dimmer manufacturing companies appeared in the market in the 1960’s. Most companies were using solid state components in their dimmer construction for better results. The most popular brands today are Lutron and Leviton. Both companies offer a tremendous array of dimmers and are constantly innovating new products.

Dimmers Save Electricity

Lutron lighting dimmers are one of the best electricity saving products for the home and commercial spaces.  By reducing the wattage of the light source, less wear and tear of the light bulb results increasing lamp life and reducing electricity consumption.   Following is a chart on 'How Lutron lighting dimmers save electricity.'

How Lutron Lighting Dimmers Save Electricity

Important Features of Lutron Lighting Dimmers

Lutron dimmers are an inexpensive replacement for regular light switches and range in price from $10-$50 depending on the model and use of the dimmer. Lutron lighting dimmers have the following important features.

• Save Electricity
• Inexpensive
• Durable
• Easy Installation
• Automated
• Stylish

A Simple Dimmer Switch Circuit

The following circuit is a simple circuit layout for a light dimmer constructed with basic electronic components. The light dimmer circuit is built using components such as diodes, resistors, wires and capacitors. The main principle in the working of a dimming circuit is to charge the capacitor first using the power source and then let the capacitor discharge slowly. This makes sure that the wattage is decreased at the source to which the lighting dimmer is attached.

Simple 12V Lutron Lighting Dimmer Circuit

Safety Measures for Dimmer Switch

Lutron lighting dimmers come with complete instructions on 'How to install lutron lighingt dimmers' and anyone with little to no knowledge of electronics can install it in less than 15 minutes. The instructions come with complete safety measures which should be taken during dimmer installation.

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