Dimming LED Lights

By LED Lighthouse

To check which type of dimmer switch is compatible with your LED light fitting, the first thing to check is the input voltage of the LED unit.
Low Voltage LED light units will need a low voltage Dimmer switch.

Dimmer Switches for LED Lights

For example, our LED Strip Lights require the use of a 12 Volt dimmer. The dimmer is connected between the 12V power supply and the LED lights. All 12V LED Strip lights can be dimmed in this manner; there is no special requirement for the LED strip to be dimmable – they all are due to their inherent design.

Mains Voltage 240V AC LED Lights are a little more complicated to dim successfully. The key is identifying if the LED lights are “Triac” dimmable (also known as “leading edge”) or “trailing edge” dimmable. You need to make sure the dimmer switch is the same as the lights, either “Triac” (leading edge) or “trailing edge”. Also, check the minimum and maximum load requirement for the dimmer switch (measured in Watts). Add together the wattage of all the LED bulbs in the circuit; this value must be within the load range of the dimmer switch. This must be checked to avoid damage to the bulbs or dimmer switch.

Will I need to replace my Dimmer Switch when replacing halogen/filament bulbs with Dimmable LED Bulbs?

Most traditional wall-mounted dimmer switches fitted in the UK are “Triac” dimmers also known as “Leading edge” dimmers. Mains voltage LED fittings particularly GU10 LED bulbs are often made in “trailing edge” format. Trailing edge bulbs require trailing edge dimmers, we stock the Varilight V-Pro dimmer switch which is designed specifically for dimming LEDs.

LED Driver Calculator

By LED Lighthouse

Try our LED Driver calculator to work out the size of the LED power supply required for your LED installation.

More Resources

By LED Lighthouse

Below are a few useful guides to helping you choose the right LED lighting for you project. Please feel free to contact us with any questions.

About LED Lighthouse

Specialist supplier of quality LED lighting

Established in 2011, we are dedicated to supplying quality LED lighting at an affordable price. We offer LED Lights and components from some of the best manufacturers including Integral, Samsung, Epistar, Meanwell and Ltech.
Due to customer demand, in recent years we've grown to specialise in LED Strip Lights and associated parts, developing many of our own products.