When installing a Dimmer switch, all youre really doing is controlling the amount of voltage flow to a light which makes it dim at a low setting to a fully bright light at maximum setting. Now a typical circuit will contain a 3-wire cable known as romex.
Replacing a standard single-pole or three-way switch with a dimmer switch is no different than replacing a standard switch. Remember: Dimmer switches dont work on most fluorescent fixtures, and low-voltage lighting requires special low-voltage dimmers. Remove the wires from the old switch.
How do you wire a 3 wire dimmer switch?
2:471:00How to Install a Dimmer Switch in a 3-way Application | Leviton - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBegin by inserting the bare copper ground wire under the green terminal screw on the dimmer. AndMoreBegin by inserting the bare copper ground wire under the green terminal screw on the dimmer. And tighten the screw. Firmly. Next take the common wire the one marked with a piece of electrical tape.
Why does my 3-way dimmer switch not work?
Part of the problem is that there needs to be the right wiring between the switches. There has to be two hot wires*. There also may need to be a neutral wire, depending on the wiring configuration. You still need wiring between the dimmers that are able to have two hot lines, called followers, as well as a ground wire.
Is a dimmer switch wired the same as a normal switch?
Unlike standard switches, most dimmer switches have wire leads that are connected to the circuit wires with wire connectors, rather than using screw terminal connections. Back view of single-pole dimmer switch.
How can you tell if a light fixture is dimmable?
Check The Light Bulb Check if the light bulb you are about to use is dimmable. Dimmable light bulbs work fine on a non-dimmable circuit; however, non-dimmable light bulbs will not work on a dimmable circuit.
Why is my dimmer switch not working correctly?
A dimmer switch that is not working is often caused by a loss of power or a faulty dimmer. First, check to see if you have a tripped circuit breaker causing you to lose power in the room. Next, we need to check the dimmer. Dimmers operate at about 60°C (140°F), much warmer than standard switches.
What happens if you wire a three way switch wrong?
Finding the common wire: When wiring a 3-way light switch, youll need to find the common wire and connect it to the common screw. If you dont correctly connect this wire, then your lights wont work from more than one switch.
Why does my 3-way lamp switch not work?
With a 3-way bulb, if it isnt working at all, its probably dead. If both elements dont come on there, replace the bulb. If you have a 3-way bulb that works as it should in a good 3-way socket, and only one of the two elements works in a different socket, the problem is with the socket.
What happens if you dont use dimmable bulbs?
You should NOT use a non-dimmable lamp in a dimmable circuit as it may cause damage to the lamp and or circuit.