Dimmer switch: 250 or 400watt - what's the difference?
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bhafc99
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Dimmer switch: 250 or 400watt - what's the difference?

by bhafc99 » Tue Jun 26, 2007 11:59 am

I'm planning to fit dimmer switches, but see that they come as 250 watt or 400 watt. How do I know which to install? Thanks.

sparx
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by sparx » Tue Jun 26, 2007 1:52 pm

Hi difference is max lamp loads, go for lowest that will be more than you need! ie if dimming 1 X 100w lamp then get a 250W dimmer as thats the smallest made, if say 3x 100W lamps you need next size up, ie 400W sw.
If you 'play safe' & just buy a 400w sw. you will find if only 100w loaded it won't dim low enough,
regards SPARX
P>S> these ratings are for normal tungsten lamps, if using halogens then allow 50% more rating (approx) for cold inrush current, also if using Low Volt fittings get a dimmer for transformer rating.

bhafc99
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by bhafc99 » Tue Jun 26, 2007 3:19 pm

Thanks, that's explained it perfectly.

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