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.
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.
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.
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.
As with most forms of technology, new lines of products can come at you quick and fast! Here we will look at the newest buzz word in LED lighting, COB or Chip On Board. We’ll go through the differences between the SMD, Surface Mounted Diode, and COB LED strip to see which one is right for you.
See MoreWelcome to LED Lighthouse, your beacon in the vast sea of lighting solutions! We specialise in high-quality LED Light Strips, designed to meet the diverse needs of Electricians, seasoned contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. But what sets our LED strips apart in a market saturated with similar-looking products? Let’s illuminate!
See MoreFrom the contemporary homes of London to chic cafes in Edinburgh, LED strip lighting has transformed the way we illuminate spaces. However, achieving that pristine, uninterrupted glow, free from the infamous ‘dot effect’, remains a challenge for many. In this guide, we’ll demystify the dot effect, explore its significance, and provide proven strategies to achieve the coveted seamless, dotless finish. Dive in and light up your spaces flawlessly!
See MoreEstablished 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.
