Controls Phase|Step 27 of 37
Install Dimmers
Dimmer switches are the single most important upgrade for any lighting plan. They transform harsh overhead light into soft ambiance with a simple slide.
Time Required
15-30 min per switch
Cost
$20-$60 per dimmer
Difficulty
Easy DIY
Types of Dimmers
Single-Pole Dimmer
Controls lights from one location. Most common type. Simple replacement for standard switch.
3-Way/4-Way Dimmer
For lights controlled from multiple locations. Only one switch needs to be a dimmer.
Slide Dimmer
Vertical slider for precise control. Some have preset on/off button. Classic design.
Smart Dimmer
WiFi or Z-Wave connected. App control, voice control, schedules. Premium option.
LED Compatibility
- Critical: Not all dimmers work with LED bulbs. Older dimmers cause buzzing/flickering.
- LED/CFL dimmer: Look for "LED compatible" or "LED+" on packaging.
- ELV vs MLV: Electronic Low Voltage for most LEDs. Magnetic for some fixtures.
- Minimum load: Some dimmers have minimum wattage. LED may be too low.
- Dimmable bulbs: Bulbs must also be dimmable. Check packaging.
Priority Rooms for Dimmers
- Dining room: Essential. Bright for dinner prep, dim for ambiance.
- Living room: Movie watching, entertaining, relaxing all need different levels.
- Bedroom: Wind down before sleep. Never full brightness at night.
- Kitchen: At least for pendants and general lighting.
- Bathroom: Bright for grooming, dim for relaxing baths.
Pro Tips
- •Neutral wire: Smart dimmers usually require neutral. Check before buying.
- •Wattage rating: Dimmer must handle total wattage of all connected bulbs.
- •Same brand bulbs: Mix brands and colors may dim differently.
- •Low-end trim: Some dimmers let you adjust the minimum level.