dimmer switch question?

Question

i have a dimmer switch that you push to turn on and turn to dim the lights but somethings wrong with it. the switch is buzzing and the bulbs don't really dim. they just flicker. i'm using the spiral energy efficient bulbs. what could be wrong with it?

Answer 1

Fluorescent bulbs can be dimmed, but only if the light fixture is equipped with a dimmable ballast. Even with that, I would not dim fluorescent bulbs. It is extremely inefficient, and you'll be going through bulbs quickly. Incandescent (regular) light bulbs are the way to go if you want to dim.

Answer 2

those bulbs are not made to be used with a dimmer you drastically reduced the life of the bulb by trying it with a dimmer.

try doing a search for info on LED lights new concept might be available in bulb form

Answer 3

only a normal type of bulb will work with a dimmer, a energy efficiant, or flouresent bulb wont work, and the buzzing is normal (i hope) as it happens with mine.

but if when you leave it on and touch it after a while it's hot or warm, you got a loose wire in there.

Answer 4

Dimmers will not function with fluorescent bulbs, they need a higher level of current. Try incandescent bulbs.

Answer 5

They make special CFLs for use with dimmers. Plain Janes won't work. You'll burn up the dimmer or the lamps. Potential fire hazard. Dimmers are rated for wattage. Do not exceed their rating.

Answer 6

your dimmer(I have one) works with incandescent bulbs only. if you want to use the bulbs you have you must buy the proper dimmer

Answer 7

You need to change to regular light bulbs and you wont have this problem.