Buying a dimmer
October 16, 2017 12:28 PM Subscribe
I'm getting a new light fixture for my kitchen ceiling and I want to get a dimmer. Do I need one or two?
I'm planning to buy this light fixture for my kitchen ceiling. One of the questions on the site is about dimmers, and someone suggested this one. The description of the dimmer says it works for lights that are controlled by two separate switches, which mine is. Does that mean I buy one dimmer or two?
Also, the description of what kind of dimmer this light needs is Greek to me. Is there a dimmer that would be better?
I'm planning to buy this light fixture for my kitchen ceiling. One of the questions on the site is about dimmers, and someone suggested this one. The description of the dimmer says it works for lights that are controlled by two separate switches, which mine is. Does that mean I buy one dimmer or two?
Also, the description of what kind of dimmer this light needs is Greek to me. Is there a dimmer that would be better?
Best answer: For the Lutron Diva you can only have one dimmer but it works with a three-way switch.
If you want two dimmers on the same light you have to use a different model, the Maestro, which has a master/companion setup. There you'd have two dimmers, but different versions for each switch (one master, one or more companions).
The dimmer you linked to should work fine with a 52W LED light fixture but it's always a bit of a crap shoot. But it's rated for properly dimming LED lights, so no reason to think there will be an issue.
posted by GuyZero at 1:24 PM on October 16, 2017
If you want two dimmers on the same light you have to use a different model, the Maestro, which has a master/companion setup. There you'd have two dimmers, but different versions for each switch (one master, one or more companions).
The dimmer you linked to should work fine with a 52W LED light fixture but it's always a bit of a crap shoot. But it's rated for properly dimming LED lights, so no reason to think there will be an issue.
posted by GuyZero at 1:24 PM on October 16, 2017
Alternate suggestion: Philips Hue Bulbs and Hue dimmer switch. Or other equivalent smart bulbs?
posted by pixiecrinkle at 4:43 PM on October 16, 2017
posted by pixiecrinkle at 4:43 PM on October 16, 2017
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An example would be a stairwell light with a switch at the top of the stairs and another switch at the bottom of the stairs. If the switches are in different positions (one up, one down), then the light is on. If they are in the same position (both up, or both down), the light is off.
If that is your situation, any dimmer switch that is "three-way" and is OK for LEDs should work for you. Within those restrictions, pick one where you like how it looks and feels.
From the directions for the switch you linked: So you'd buy one dimmer and one non-dimming three-way switch (or just leave the existing non-dimming three-way switch in place).
posted by sourcequench at 12:48 PM on October 16, 2017 [2 favorites]