Dimmers

A dimmer lets you adjust light output from full brightness down to a low glow, giving you control over the mood and energy use of a room without changing the fitting or bulb. Choosing the right type depends on the bulb you are using, where the switch is positioned, and how much control you need.

What types of dimmer switches are available?

Dimmers come in wall-mounted and inline formats. Wall dimmers replace a standard light switch and are wired into the circuit in the same position. Inline dimmers sit along the flex between the ceiling rose and lampholder, or between a plug and a table or floor lamp. They are ideal for pendant lamps and portable lights where no wall switch is accessible. Rotary dimmers are the most common wall type, with touch and push-to-dim versions also available.

Do dimmers work with LED bulbs?

Not all dimmers work with all LED bulbs. Older trailing-edge dimmers designed for incandescent bulbs can cause LED bulbs to flicker, buzz, or not dim smoothly. For LED lighting, you need a dimmer that is rated for LED or a leading-edge dimmer compatible with your specific bulb. The simplest approach is to check your bulb packaging for a recommended dimmer type, or choose a bulb and dimmer from the same manufacturer's dimmable range.

What is an inline dimmer?

An inline dimmer is a small control unit that fits directly onto the flex of a lamp, usually within arm's reach. It is the most practical dimming solution for pendant lamps, table lamps, and floor lamps where a wall dimmer is not an option. Inline dimmers are available in black and white finishes and in versions rated for both standard and LED bulbs. Some models include an on/off function so they double as an inline switch.

How do I know if my lamp circuit is dimmable?

A circuit is dimmable if it has a dimmer switch installed or if you add an inline dimmer to the flex. The bulb must also be rated as dimmable, as non-dimmable LED bulbs can be permanently damaged by a dimmer circuit even if they appear to work initially. Check the bulb packaging for the dimmable label before installing any dimmer switch or inline dimmer.

LampSpares stocks inline dimmers and wall dimmer switches compatible with LED and standard bulbs, available in black and white.