Does anyone else wonder about this: if I install dimmers to create a nice ambience, will I end up paying more for electricity? Or can dimmers actually help us save money?
I’ve been thinking about getting some dimmers for my home recently because I love the idea of being able to adjust the light levels to suit my mood. But at the same time, I’m worried it might become a “hidden killer” on my electricity bill.
I’ve heard some people say that dimmers actually save electricity because when the lights are dimmed, the power consumed naturally decreases. But others warn that some cheaper dimmers have standby power consumption, so does that cancel out the savings?
So, I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences.
Do you think dimmers really save electricity?
Has anyone seen a noticeable change in their electricity bill after installing dimmers?
Are there any specific things to look out for when choosing dimmers, like brands or types?
Does long-term dimming affect the light bulbs or the electrical circuit?
oafh1Begginer
Do Dimmers Use a Lot of Electricity?
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Thanks for bringing up this topic, I’m sure many people considering dimmers have similar concerns!
Generally speaking, dimmers can indeed help save electricity, because they reduce the power output by lowering the voltage or current supplied to the bulb, thereby decreasing power consumption. However, exactly how much you save, and whether there are any counter-effects, depends on several factors.
Imagine turning down a tap – less water flows out. For a light, a dimmer is a bit like turning down that tap, reducing the electricity flowing to the bulb, so naturally, it saves power.
Standby Power Consumption: The standby power consumption you mentioned is certainly a valid point. Some lower-quality or poorly designed dimmers might have a certain amount of standby power draw, even when the lights are off or dimmed to their lowest setting. While typically not high, it can add up over time. Therefore, choosing a reputable brand with a good track record is a safer bet.
Dimmer and Bulb Compatibility: This point is absolutely crucial! Not all bulbs are dimmable, especially LED bulbs. If you use a non-dimmable LED bulb with a dimmer, it can lead to flickering, buzzing, or even damage the bulb or the dimmer itself. So, when purchasing, always make sure both the bulb and the dimmer are clearly marked as ‘Dimmable’.
Impact on Bulb Lifespan: Generally, appropriate dimming can extend the lifespan of bulbs, particularly for incandescent and halogen lamps, as it reduces their operating temperature. For LED lights, while some theories suggest dimming can also extend life, it’s more important to choose a compatible LED dimmer to avoid overheating or damage caused by incompatibility.
Dimmer Efficiency: Different types of dimmers also vary in their conversion efficiency. Modern electronic dimmers are typically more efficient than older resistive types (though resistive ones are rarely seen now).
If you only dim occasionally, or if the dimming range isn’t very significant, then the power saving might not be so noticeable. However, if you frequently dim your lights down quite low, then the electricity savings will be more pronounced.
Looking forward to hearing more discussions and shared experiences about dimmers!