Updating your lights to a dimmer switch is an easy way to upgrade your interior space, but if it doesn’t work properly, all that money and effort will be wasted. Our professionals are available to make sure that doesn’t happen. They specialize in helping home owners maintain functionally efficient and safe electrical systems, and dimmer switch installation and repair is a major part of that. We have created an outline of five common problems that could be affecting your dimmer switch and ways to respond.
Table of Contents
Top Dimmer Switch Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
1. It’s The Wrong Size
Your dimmer switch is most likely set on a three-way switch that allows the light to be turned on and off by both the dimmer and an additional switch. In order for both switches to work properly, the switch size will need to exceed the maximum wattage of the light fixture you plan on connecting it to.
To ensure you’ve installed the correct size, check both the light fixture and the bulb for the maximum wattage. If you plan on connecting multiple fixtures, add up the maximum wattage of each. Next, check to make sure your switch is capable of handling that amount of energy.
2. You Are Using the Wrong Light Bulbs
For homeowners connecting dimmer switches to previously installed light fixtures, the kind of bulb being used is another common problem. Most dimmer switches are not compatible with fluorescent or energy saving lightbulbs.
Unless the packaging specifically states that your dimmer switch may be used with those kinds of bulbs, it’s safe to assume you need to purchase traditional incandescent bulbs. Since this is such an easy fix, it’s one of the first things you should check if your newly installed dimmer switch in is not working.
3. The Current is Interrupted
Dimmer switches work by regulating the electrical current powering the light fixture so rapidly that the human eye can’t detect that the light is actually flickering, not dimming. When that current is interrupted, the filament within the bulb vibrates and produces a buzzing or humming sound.
If your dimmer switch has stopped working correctly, try changing the bulb. Alternatively, you may need to decrease the amount of wattage connected to the switch or replace the dimmer switch altogether.
Personalizing your interior lighting is a great way to compliment your décor and give your home a cozy, warm ambience. But like any other home upgrade, you’ll need a professional service to get the job done right. Contact Reliable Electrical Services today to find out what’s wrong with your dimmer switch in Delray Beach, FL.
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4. Physical Damage to the Switch
If you accidentally damaged your dimmer switch while moving furniture between separate rooms in your house, you will need to replace it. The physical impact impact may have disconnected a wire or damaged an internal component in the dimmer switch.
5. Exposure to Water Damage
Accidental spills, floods, or burst pipes can easily cause damage to your dimmer switch along with other components of your electrical system. Exposure to water can cause a short in the switch’s circuit. Unfortunately, mild to severe damage to wiring can increase your vulnerability to a variety of issues including flickering lights, power loss, or electrical fires.
Professional Electrical Repair and Installation Services
If you have a bad dimmer switch in your house, contact our team of skilled electricians by phone at (561) 408-5147 to receive support. Our staff provides reputable lighting repair and installation services for homes in South Florida. To diagnose the source of the issue, our technicians will perform an inspection of your light switch, wiring, and electrical panel.
Our contractors also offer other types of electrical services including wiring installation, ceiling fan replacement, backup generator installation, surge protection, and electrical panel repair. Our team are equipped with the skills and training necessary to restore power in your house.
