I just installed a new Leviton 3-way dimmer switch and it seems to get warm. Is there something wrong with the dimmer or is that normal? My wife is very nervous when it comes to fires.
2007-03-07 15:26:21 · 4 answers · asked by Broncs 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
A little warm is normal. However, you need to be sure that your dimmer switch is not overloaded.
The smallest dimmer switch is rated for 600 watts. This means that the lighting this switch controls needs to be less than 600 watts. To determine this add up the wattages of all of the lights bulbs this switch is dimming.
If it is less than 600 watts, everything is ok. If it is 600 watts or above, you either need to get a 1000 watt or larger dimmer switch or install smaller wattage bulbs to get the load below 600 watts.
If you need further assistance, please visit:
http://electricalblog.gilchrist-electric.com
2007-03-07 15:43:44 · answer #1 · answered by gilchristelectric 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Leviton Dimmer Switches
2016-11-08 04:16:43 · answer #2 · answered by dziabula 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes it is normal for dimmers to heat up. they heat up more when you have the dimmer set to a lower setting. the switch must get rid of the energy not being used, and the only way for them to so is through heat. bottom line is it is more than likely fine, but if you are still concerned you can check the temp with a laser thermometer (sold at most hardware stores) check the temp of the switch when it hasnt been used for a while, then check it again with the dimmer set to the lowest setting, then again at the middle setting, and then once more at the highest setting, then call Leviton with your results, and they will let you know if you are within spec or not
2007-03-08 00:24:37 · answer #3 · answered by dgr0919 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The way a standard light dimmer switch operates generates a considerable amount of heat, thats why they have aluminum heatsinks on the front of the switch. The larger the watt rating for the switch, the larger the heat sink will be. If you overload the circuit and put more wattage than the switch is rated for it will generate more heat than if it is properly loaded. The dimmer you run the lights, the more heat will be generated, but if properly loaded it is perfectly safe.
2007-03-07 16:52:55 · answer #4 · answered by nathanael_beal 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋