How to connect a dimmer together with a regular switch. How to connect a dimmer - instructions from A to Z. Installing a Fibaro FGD211 dimmer with a switch

In order to connect a dimmer to a chandelier, the brightness of which it will control, you need to follow just a few simple steps. It is much more important to do everything right, because this type of dimmer can quickly fail if connected to the network incorrectly. Next, we will consider useful installation tips, the simplest connection diagrams, as well as the requirements for installing a dimmer with your own hands.

The principle of operation of the device

First you need to deal with that. The principle of operation is to smoothly adjust the voltage that is supplied to a controlled, for example, spotlight.

Simply put, the device can change the voltage that goes to the bulb from 0 to 100%. The lower the output voltage, the dimmer the glow will be. At the same time, there are various types of dimmers, which differ not only in appearance, but also by themselves in the principle of operation, namely:

control: wheel (rotary), button (push), sensor (electronic);
application: halogen, fluorescent, LED light sources or;
additional features: timer, remote control, clap on, soft shutdown, etc.;
design: modular (mounted on a DIN rail), monoblock (mounted in the wall, like sockets).

So, now consider the basic requirements for installing and connecting a dimmer with your own hands.

Application Requirements

It should immediately be noted that the simplest dimmers that are used at home can only be used to control incandescent and halogen lamps. If you connect them to LED strips and fluorescent bulbs, both devices will fail in a short period of time. That is why it is necessary to choose dimmers based on which bulbs they will control.

The remaining requirements when connecting a dimmer are as follows:

The minimum power of the luminaire to be connected must not be lower than 40 W. If you ignore this moment, the life of the regulator will be noticeably reduced.
It is not recommended to install the dimmer in a room where the temperature is above 25 ° C. Overheating of the device will adversely affect its operation.
The phase conductor must necessarily go to the break, which is connected to the connector marked L. It is strictly forbidden to connect zero, in fact, as in the standard version.
To adjust the glow, choose products with the appropriate designation, which indicates that the bulb can be used for dimming.
If you decide to use a dimmer together with tapes, you need to buy a device of a special design that can work with such a light source. Leading manufacturers: Schneider, Legrand, ABB and Viko have such models in their assortment, but their cost is much higher.
The power of the dimmer must exceed the total power of the fixtures that it will serve. For example, if you decide to use 3 light bulbs of 100 watts, the power of the device must be selected with a margin of at least 500 watts. If the total power of the fixtures is more than 1 kW, in this case it is necessary to additionally connect an amplifier with which it is possible to service the lighting system with a power of up to 1.8 kW.
Do not connect capacitive and inductive loads to the dimmer at the same time.

That's all the requirements that you must adhere to in order to properly connect the dimmer with your own hands!

Connection diagrams

Before proceeding with the installation of the device, it is necessary to select the most appropriate wiring diagram. Today, it is possible to connect a dimmer with and without a light switch, as an independent control element. At the same time, you can install several identical devices at the same time, or even use a combination with. Consider each scheme in more detail and determine the merits of all options.

Standard terms

In this case, you need to connect the dimmer yourself instead of the switch that was installed earlier. Everything is simple - we lead the phase to a break, and grounding and zero directly to the lamp (if a 220 Volt network is used for three wires).

In the diagram you can clearly see the essence of this method:

This option is the simplest and will not take you much time, especially if you use an old strobe for installation work.

With switch

This method is more convenient for use in the bedroom, because. it will be possible to turn on / off the light with a conventional switch, and place the dimmer next to the bed, which will allow you to control the brightness of the lighting without getting up.

Dual control

To control the brightness of room lighting from two different locations, you can install two dimmers and connect them together with jumpers. This option is recommended for use in spacious rooms and long corridors.

Another option for controlling the lamp and its brightness from several places is the use of walk-through switches.

The dimmer connection diagram in this case looks like this:

After choosing the most suitable dimmer connection scheme for your conditions, you need to proceed to the final stage - installing the product.

Visual video tutorial on connecting wires

Installation work

In fact, the technology for installing a dimmer is no different from installing an ordinary light switch.

If you already have a ready-made strobe to which the wires from the junction box and the lamp are connected, you can connect the dimmer yourself as follows:

We turn off the electricity in the apartment.
We install the mounting box into the recess.
We fix the cores in the corresponding terminals of the housing.
We place the body in the groove.
We unscrew the side screws so that the presser feet are pressed against the walls of the mounting box.
We attach the decorative frame, tighten the nut and screw the wheel - the structure is assembled.
We turn on the electricity and check the correctness of the electrical installation work.

This is the technology used to connect the dimmer and install it yourself. As you can see, there is nothing complicated in this event, the main thing is to choose the right type of lamps and device model! Even electric kettles can easily handle the installation, but if you encounter any difficulties, it is better to watch the video instructions provided below.

Instructions for correctly replacing a key switch with a dimmer

Related content:

If you want to create an unusual lighting design in your home and save on your electricity bills along the way, learn how to connect a dimmer. This device allows you to smoothly adjust the voltage on halogen and conventional lamps.

In everyday life, the devices we describe are used to regulate the operating temperature of electric stoves, irons, soldering irons and other heating devices, as well as to adjust the brightness of lamps. For this reason, dimmers are often called dimmers.

Important point! The regulators in question must not be used with pulse and transformer devices (radios, old TVs). If you connect a dimmer to them, they will simply fail. But dimmers can be safely connected to any incandescent lamps and halogen lighting fixtures.

Dimmer for incandescent lamps

The device will protect them by supplying a minimum current to the light bulbs when the electricity is turned on. Due to this, the lamps will work much longer (as you know, most often they burn out precisely because of starting voltage surges). Some modern dimmers not only regulate the degree, but can also perform other functions that make life easier and make it much more comfortable. Sophisticated dimmers can:

controlled from the remote control or voice commands;
turn lamps off and on according to a preset timer;
become part of the increasingly popular smart home systems;
change the light temperature automatically, create a flashing lighting effect.

It is clear that inexpensive dimmers cannot do any of the above. But with their main function - adjusting the light level, they do an excellent job.

Rheostat dimmers are considered the simplest and cheapest. Nowadays they are used very rarely, as they are characterized by a low efficiency and inconvenience in use due to the fact that they heat up very much during operation.

More modern are transistor, thyristor and triac mechanisms. They can have additional functions, are highly efficient and at the same time affordable. But it is undesirable to use such regulators with household devices that place increased demands on the type of power supply. Another disadvantage is the creation of electrical interference for other equipment.

Thyristor and transistor dimmers, despite these disadvantages, are the most popular. If you plan to replace a standard switch with a dimmer, buy these devices. Without extra financial costs, you will have at your disposal a stably functioning device that you can connect correctly and quickly with your own hands.

Transistor dimmer

If the financial issue is not of particular importance to you, you can purchase light control devices made on the basis of automatic transformers. They are able to produce an ideal sinusoid of current. Such devices are installed to regulate the operation of large and expensive household units.

Dimmers, in addition, are divided into different types according to their design. From this point of view, the following devices exist:

Modular - the optimal type of device for halogen and conventional incandescent lamps. They are mounted on a DIN rail directly in the apartment or home electrical panel. Modular devices are controlled using a key-type switch or using an external button.
Installed in a box designed for mounting a standard switch. These devices are controlled by a special button. It is integrated into the smart home system or placed on the surface of the box. Such dimmers are compatible with all types of lamps (except fluorescent), as well as with electronic and step-down transformers.
Mini regulators. These are commonly called cord dimmers. They make it possible to control the operation of floor lamps, small sconces and table lighting fixtures. In most cases, corded dimmers are only compatible with incandescent light bulbs.

Monoblock regulators are most widespread among household users. They are installed instead of a standard switch. We will talk about them.

Such dimmers come in various modifications. They differ from each other in their control options. It can be:

Sensory. Professionals call devices with this control option the most reliable in operation. In fact, there is nothing to break in them, since the regulators do not have any mechanical elements. You just need to lightly touch the dimmer screen to activate it.
Rotary. To turn off the lamp, you need to turn the dial of the device all the way to the left. A variation of such a dimmer is a rotary-push mechanism. The user needs to click on the device to turn it off or on. And the adjustment of the required level of illumination is carried out by turning the dial.
Keyboard. It is externally impossible to distinguish such a dimmer from a regular switch. You need to press the key to turn on the light and hold it pressed for a certain time. While the key is held down, the lighting intensity increases.

Monoblock key dimmer

An important nuance. Monoblock dimmers of various types can be connected to certain devices and lamps. The packaging with the dimmer always indicates what equipment it can work with.

Having a home master with minimal knowledge in the electrical field will allow him to correctly connect a monoblock dimmer in his home. There are no special difficulties here. The main thing to remember is that the regulator is mounted exclusively into the phase cable break. Under no circumstances should the device be connected to the neutral. If you make this mistake, you can immediately go buy a new dimmer. Its electronic circuit will simply burn out.

Instead of a switch, the dimmer is installed according to the following scheme:

Turn off the electricity supply to the apartment at the power panel.
Disconnect the wires from the terminals of the installed switch and remove it.
Apply power to the panel, use a screwdriver with an LED, a multimeter or an electrical tester to determine the phase wire. Mark it in a way convenient for you (stick a piece of adhesive tape or tape, put a mark with a pencil).
Now you can turn off the shield and proceed directly to installing the dimmer. It's easy to do. You need to feed the phase wire that you marked to the input of the regulator. From the output it will go to the junction box (that is, to the load), and then to the lighting fixture itself.

Installing a dimmer

There are dimmers with signed output and input contacts. In them, it is necessary to feed the phase wire to the corresponding connector. If the contacts on the dimmer are not specially marked, the phase is supplied to any of the available inputs.

After connecting the dimmer, you need to install it back into the socket box, put a decorative cover and a potentiometer wheel on the dimmer (if you are installing a rotary-push or rotary mechanism). All! You were able to connect the dimmer to the switch correctly. Use the installed device for your pleasure!

In bedrooms, experts advise installing a dimmer not instead of a standard switch, but in series with it. It is advisable to mount the dimmer itself right next to the bed (then you can adjust the lighting without getting up from it). And the old switch is left in its usual place - at the entrance to the bedroom. You will use it when entering and leaving the premises.

Installing a dimmer near the bed

If you want to control the lighting of a room from different points, you are allowed to install two controllers at once. In this case, you will need to connect the first and second terminals on the dimmer to each other and connect the phase to the third connector of any of the devices. The remaining output on the other dimmer will serve for the wire that goes to the load.

Finally, let's figure out how to properly connect a dimmer to LED lamps or strips. In fact, the procedure is performed in the same way as in the case of connecting conventional lighting fixtures. But there is one caveat. You need to place the regulator directly in front of the controller. That is, you need to do the following:

Connect the dimmer to a phase break.
Connect the device output to the controller input.

Even today, many still do not know what kind of device this is - a dimmer, what it is needed for and how to install it correctly. Today we will try to explain all this in detail; we will also provide a dimmer connection diagram (more precisely, even several possible diagrams at once) and step-by-step instructions for installing it yourself.

The modern assortment of dimmers present on the shelves of lighting equipment stores is huge, and therefore choosing the appropriate option is quite a difficult task. We will look at the features and varieties of this device, but first we note one important point. A dimmer (or dimmer) is a device designed to smoothly regulate the brightness of lighting and, as a rule, it is installed instead of a simple switch.

Schemes and methods of connecting a dimmer

There are several options for connecting a dimmer to a lighting network, but we will present only the most commonly used circuits today.

Scheme one

The simplest one, since we are talking about installing a regulator instead of a traditional switch. To begin with, the key switch should be removed (of course, having de-energized it in advance). To do this, remove the cover of the de-energized device key - it is under it that the screws securing the housing are located. If there is no plastic box, it must be installed after dismantling the breaker. It can be a simple box - the kind that is used for sockets.

If this dimmer connection diagram is used in relation to a monoblock model, then the technology is the same - the phase cable is placed in a gap. It must be connected to the terminal that is designated by the letter L and has an arrow pointing up. As for the second cable, it must be connected to a different terminal (a wavy line with an inclined arrow).

Note! It is worth reminding you once again that this paragraph describes the simplest way to connect a dimmer, and therefore it is used in the vast majority of cases (special skills for work in this case are not required). Roughly speaking, the technology here is almost identical to the procedure for replacing an outlet or switch.

Scheme two

This scheme is somewhat more complicated (but at the same time much more convenient) and is used, as a rule, for bedrooms. The peculiarity is the serial connection of the switch and dimmer to one phase cable going to the lighting device. It is worth remembering that the switch should be located first in this line, and after it the dimmer itself. The most popular option is to mount the switch next to the door and the dimmer near the bed.

The main advantage of this scheme is that you, the user, will be able to adjust/turn off the lighting without even getting out of bed! And if, when leaving the room, you use the circuit breaker to turn off the light, and when you return and turn it on again, you will notice that the brightness level of the lighting is the same as you set before.

Video - How to install a dimmer instead of a switch

Scheme three. Pass-through switch

It is rightfully considered the most difficult option, since it involves installing a pass-through switch. Despite the fact that the installation process is highly complex, the convenience of the scheme is obvious, and therefore it is often used for through rooms, long corridors, stairs between floors and other similar places. In short, the essence of this method of adjusting the intensity of lighting is to turn on the light in one place and then turn it off in another.

On a note. If there are three circuit breakers (or more) in the circuit, then the wire that is laid to them must be four-wire.

What else is special about pass-through switches? And the fact that they are, in fact, more switches - they can switch between lines, and therefore turn on at any location of the key. An analogy can be drawn with railway switches. And here dimmer connection diagram with a pass-through circuit breaker is shown below. The phase, as you can see, goes to the first switch, while it goes to the lighting device from the other. A two-core cable is used to connect the breakers together.

Important information! No one connects pass-through switches directly! This must be done only through a junction box in which the cables are connected in pairs.

Now let’s look at how a dimmer will function in such a circuit. It must be connected after the last breaker, so that the lighting intensity can be easily adjusted regardless of the position of the switches. However, if the dimmer is turned off, the light will go out and, characteristically, will not react in any way to the pass-through switches (and this is not surprising, because you will open the circuit).

How to install a dimmer correctly - detailed instructions!

As a result, I would like to familiarize myself with the procedure for installing a regulator instead of a simple switch. The replacement process itself in this case is not complicated, since both devices are mounted using almost the same technology. All you need to do is become familiar with this technology and act in accordance with the guidelines below.

Step #1. First, turn off the power supply; you can also additionally check whether it has really been turned off, using a special indicator screwdriver for this.

Step #2. After this, you can remove the breaker button that is installed.

Step #3. Now unscrew the screws that secure the decorative frame of the circuit breaker, and then remove it.

Step #4. Unscrew the mounting screws and remove the device mechanism from the mounting box. By the way, you can later install the dimmer itself in the same box.

Step #5. Unscrew the electrical cables that are connected to the switch.

Step #6. After this you will see a couple of loose wires.

The first wire (and it will be a phase wire) is connected to the breaker itself, while the other is connected to the lighting fixture. Carefully read the diagram presented in the manufacturer's instructions for the dimmer; or, alternatively, this circuit may be present on the cover of the device housing.

As we have repeatedly mentioned above, when working with a dimmer, you must act in strict accordance with the connection sequence recommended by the manufacturer. So, the phase wire (and here it is marked in red) is connected to the dimmer terminal (it is marked L-in). The second cable (in this case, orange) must be connected to a different terminal - L-out.

Step #7. Place the dimmer in the remaining mounting box. To perform this simple operation, carefully bend the cables and insert the dimmer into the socket box. After that, tighten the screws, install the decorative frame, and secure it with the appropriate screws. Now all that remains is to install the adjusting wheel.

Step #8. Once the installation is complete, check the regulator for functionality - this will require reconnecting the power supply. Turn the handle of the device until you hear a characteristic click, moving in the opposite direction to the clockwise movement. When this very click sounds, the voltage on the light bulbs should increase, as evidenced by a gradual increase in the brightness of the lighting.

That's it, the device is connected and, as you have already seen, it works quite normally. Now you can begin its full operation!

Operating principle and main types of dimmers

Before installing a dimer, you should understand how it generally works. As for the principle of operation, in this case it is quite simple. The dimmer pre-regulates the voltage supply to the lighting fixture in the room. If this is dealt with properly, the device will be able to change the voltage supply to the lamp from 0 to 100 percent.

The lower the voltage is supplied, the correspondingly lower the brightness of the lighting in the room will be. In addition, this device has various design variations. There are several parameters by which modern dimmers are classified. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

Classification of dimmer by type of execution

From this point of view, all dimmers are divided into three large groups, let’s consider them.

Model. Such devices are intended for installation in a distribution panel. With their help, you can regulate and also turn on lighting in places that can be classified as public (this could be a corridor or, for example, a staircase, an entrance).
Monoblock. Representatives of this category are mounted instead of a conventional switch. That is why problems with installing such dimmers with your own hands often do not arise at all. The devices are quite popular, so recently they have acquired some subtypes that differ in the way they are controlled.
With switch. And such devices are installed in a special box, where sockets are often mounted. As for the control element, in this case it is a button (not always, but in most cases).

Classification of dimmers by control method

So, monoblock household models can have, as we just noted, several control options.

Rotary models. They have a special rotating handle. If you move it to the far left, it will turn off the lights, and if you turn it to the right, the brightness of the lamps will increase.
Keyboard models. Externally they are an exact copy of a two-key switch. The purpose of the first key is to adjust the brightness of the light, and the second is to turn it off/on.
Turn-push models. They operate on almost the same principle as rotary ones, but differ in that in order to turn on the lighting, you need to recess the handle a little.

Note! Not so long ago, touch-sensitive dimmers appeared and quickly gained popularity due to the fact that they look very modern. Such devices can easily fit into almost any design (especially when it comes to high-tech style).

Dimmers with a remote control function are rightfully considered the most convenient. Thanks to the remote control, you will be able to adjust the brightness of the light from anywhere in the room. In addition, some models also perform the function of a switch. Each has its own dimmer connection diagram, but more on that later.

Classification by type of lamps

We cannot but agree that using different regulators for each specific type of lamp is at least strange. But the fact is that modern lamps are very diverse and have a variety of design features.

As for incandescent lamps, they use the simplest dimmers, which operate on an extremely simple principle: the brightness of the filament lighting is adjusted by changing the voltage. In addition, such dimmers can also be used for halogen lamps powered by a standard 220-volt voltage. Finally, the design of the data device itself is not fundamentally complex.

Video - Rules for connecting lamps to a dimmer

But for halogen light bulbs operating from 12-24 volts, more complex dimmers are used. Ideally, the connection diagram should include a step-down transformer, but if this is not possible for one reason or another, you can select a dimmer based on the type of transformer that is already present. If the latter is electronic, then you will need a model marked C, and if winding, a model marked RL.

Finally, with LED dumps a special dimmer must be used that pulses the frequency of the current.

Video - A few words about the dimmer for LEDs

Fluorescent lamps (or, as they are also called, energy-saving) are considered the most difficult in terms of adjusting lighting intensity. Many are even sure that such lighting networks should not be dimmed at all. But if you do not agree with these people, then be sure to include an electronic starter (or electronic ballast for short) in the circuit.

Note! When choosing a dimmer, take into account not only the specific type of lamps that will be used with this device, but also the maximum design load. In addition, we recommend giving preference to models with power reserves.

Key benefits of using dimmers

The adjustable lighting described in the article has a lot of advantages when compared with single-pole lighting. Let's consider them.

Saving. You'll spend about 5 to 8 percent less on your energy bills each month.
If you connect fluorescent lamps to the thermostat, the color scheme of the lighting will be cooler and softer.
In addition, you can create the perfect atmosphere in the room (for example, for watching movies or children's games).
The service life of lamps when using dimmers increases significantly. At least 25 percent.

How to choose the right dimmer? Make sure that the model you choose is designed for the total power of the lighting fixtures. For example, for a standard 600-watt appliance, 10 light bulbs in the kitchen of 100 watts each will clearly be too much.

Before installing and connecting the device (and the dimmer connection diagram will be discussed a little later), you should familiarize yourself with the basic requirements and recommendations. All of them are given below.

If an LED dimmer is connected, the power of the lighting device used with it must be at least 40 W. So, with less power, the service life of your product will be noticeably reduced.
It is also important that the power of the dimmer is greater than the total power of all lamps.
It is strictly not recommended to install the device in a room where the air temperature is more than 25 degrees. The fact is that overheating will negatively affect subsequent work.
When connecting a dimmer to LEDs, the device must be selected exclusively of high quality. Otherwise, it may simply not cope with adjusting the lighting.
Finally, if the device is connected to fluorescent lamps, as noted above, a special device must be selected.

Note! If you intend to connect the dimmer yourself, you must adhere to all the above requirements. By doing all this, you will significantly extend the service life of this device.

What about dimmers for ceiling fans?

If you buy a regulator to control the operation of a ceiling fan, then in no case give preference to the standard model, since its service life will be significantly reduced, moreover, it may even burn out in record time. There are several varieties of typical dimmers that are approved for use with ceiling fans (variable speed, quiet three- and seven-speed poles, others).

As a small conclusion

Now you know what a dimmer is, how it functions and what types of it exist. In addition, you know what the dimmer connection diagram should be in a given situation, as well as how to correctly install the device described in the article. Therefore, at the end of the article, we once again draw your attention to the fact that simple dimmers are prohibited from being used together with energy-saving lamps - the fact is that in such a situation their service life will be noticeably reduced! Instead, give preference to special dimmers or, alternatively, avoid using them altogether.

That's all, good luck to you in all your endeavors! And don't forget to watch another themed video below.

Video - Features of choosing the right dimmer

Dimmers are actively used on industrial and household equipment as switches, and they perform an additional function of adjusting the voltage of the electric current. In this article we will tell you how to connect a dimmer and consider its operating features.

Dimmer operating principle

Previously, in lighting networks, a rheostat (variable wire resistance) was connected in series with the load, changing the current in the circuit, the power changed, and the brightness of the lamp changed accordingly. This method is not economical; the remaining power was dissipated as heat on the rheostat structure. With the advent of semiconductor devices, diodes, triacs, transistors and theristors, it became possible to more economically control this process. Let's consider the operation of the simplest circuit using a diode bridge and a thyristor.

This circuit allows you to change the voltage on the load from 0 to 220V; the lamps are connected to the network through a diode bridge. While the teristor is closed, no current passes through the diodes, a rectified voltage is applied between the anode and cathode of the teristor, at the same time it is applied to the charging circuit C1;R2;R1; when the capacitor is fully charged, the teristor opens. In this case, the diagonal of the bridge is closed, alternating current will pass through the load, in the diagonal of the bridge the current flows only in one direction, this allows the use of a theristor.

The half-cycle time when the teristor opens depends on the capacitance C1 and the resistance of the resistors. You can change the duration of this period using variable resistor R1. This circuit is applicable for lamp power up to 160 W; for larger loads, it is necessary to install a teristor and diodes corresponding to the power consumption. Read also the article: → "".

Main types of dimmers

Initially, dimmers were used to control the power of devices with active loads (with heating elements, incandescent lamp filaments, heating elements in kettles and heating elements). In the process of improvement, the designs changed; it became possible to control an inductive load, regulate the speed of electric motors, and the brightness of LED lamps and other devices.

Dimmers are divided by purpose:

For active load;
For inductive load;
For LED energy-saving lamps;
For halogen lamps.

Based on the design of the controls, the following groups are distinguished:

With rotary disk;
On mechanical buttons;
Sensory;
With remote control.

The word dimmer comes from the English dimmer (dimmer), in this case it means changing parameters, lighting brightness, heating intensity, speed of revolutions or others. Modern devices, depending on their functional purpose and design, can be controlled by rotary knobs, buttons, programmable signals, sounds of a certain tone, or from remote controls.

Rotary dimmers: description and principle of operation

According to sales statistics, this is the most popular type of dimmer among consumers; it is easy to connect, cheap in price, and the small-sized housing is easily inserted into socket boxes for switches. Control is carried out by turning the dial on the housing panel, where the value of the set brightness of the lamps is marked with marks and numbers. Read also the article: → "".

Many years of experience in operating these dimmers shows that their use achieves significant energy savings and increases the service life of incandescent lamps. This is facilitated by the gradual heating of the tungsten filament; with a sharp jump in voltage and current, the filament often cannot withstand and breaks.

Manufacturers make rotary dimmers to control the brightness of LED strips and the heating temperature of soldering irons; the designs of such products do not have standard dimensions. They can be made as separate boards for installation in switchboards with connection via terminals, after which the value of the brightness of the lamps or the temperature of the heated floor is set. There are models in a separate block, on the body of which there is a socket for connecting devices. The unit itself with the regulator is plugged into a socket with a 220 V industrial network; the advantage of this design is that the dimer can be carried and connected to various devices.

Despite the similarity in the controls and the functionality of the electrical circuit, the parameters of output voltage, power consumption, and load current can differ greatly. The simplest dimmer circuit for adjusting the lighting of incandescent lamps, more complex circuits for controlling LED lamps and the speed of electric motors.

Dimmers for controlling LED lamps

To control the brightness of LED lamps, the dimmer circuit uses pulse width modulation. The amplitude of the current pulses remains constant, but the time interval between pulses changes.

By agreement of lamp and dimmer manufacturers, lamps contain a part of the circuit to coordinate operation in conjunction with the dimmer. The cost of LED lamps and dimmers is significantly higher than that of conventional incandescent lamps, but their service life and efficiency are higher. Dimmer units can be equipped with additional functions:

Timer;
Software control;
Connection to a PC to expand functions using various programs;
Possibility of use in automated “Smart Home” systems;
With remote control.

Option for connecting a dimmer with a remote control to LED lamps

Dimmers are made in the form of separate boards or in a plastic case with terminals for connection. The latest models of LED lamps can be connected to a conventional dimmer; the pulse width modulation circuit is built into the lamp body in the base area.

Limiting the current passing through the seven-way switch with chokes allows you to stabilize the voltage ripple. This makes it possible to use dimmers for halogen lamps through step-down transformers.

The disadvantage of this method is the reduction in the service life of the halogen lamp; in normal operation, when the filament is fully heated, tungsten vapors are deposited back. When using a dimmer, the thread does not warm up completely; the falfram particles become scarce and it burns out. To extend the service life, you need to turn the lamp on and off at full power; many people forget this or don’t know it at all. Read also the article: → "".

Dimmers for fluorescent lamps

Just like in LED lamps, manufacturers of fluorescent models build a matching microcircuit into the base. It receives signals from the dimmer voltage divider.

The output and input parameters of lamp elements and dimmers must match; for this, manufacturers try to adapt the circuits in lamps for any type of dimmer.

Method of connecting dimmers

Manufacturers make sure that the process of connecting a dimmer to a network is as simple as possible, especially at the household level. Therefore, for lighting networks, in most cases, the dimensions, shape and fastening elements are similar to a simple switch.

The only difference is the requirement when connecting contacts, the phase wire coming from the junction box to the switch is connected to the terminal marked “ L", to the terminalNconnect the wire coming from the light bulb to the switch.

One of the most popular brands for economical and incandescent lamps are Legrang dimmers; they are durable and easy to install. The connection terminals are standard, but the external control panel may differ; there is one key, where when you press the upper half, the brightness increases, and the lower half decreases. The two-key design provides for complete switching off of the dimer with the left key, the right one works as a dimmer control.

Legrand dimmer:

Model	Governing bodies	Power in W	Cost in rubles
Legrand Valena	Buttons and rotary	350, 450, 650, 1100	1700
Legrand Celiane	Buttons and touch	320, 420, 620	2900
Legrand Galea Life	push-button, rotary	420, 620, 1100	1700
Legrand Cariva	push-button, rotary	320, 520	1450
Legrand Mosaic	push-button	420, 1100	2000

Characteristics and approximate cost of Legrand dimmers

Schindler dimmers are considered a good model; they are more expensive than usual for incandescent or fluorescent lamps, but their advantage is obvious; in practice, this circuit is universal. The dimmer body is made to fit a standard switch, the design is two-key, one key works like a regular switch, the second adjusts the brightness.

Council number 1. Dimmers whose design includes a regular switch are practical to use in country houses where no one lives for a long time. In this case, the lighting network is completely de-energized.

Schneider dimmers:

Model	Power in W	Cost in rubles
ANYA AYA2200121	61-501	650
ANYA AYA2200123	61-501	650
Asfora EPH6400121	601	490
Asfora EPH6500121	601	1200
Asfora EPH6500123	601	1200
Asfora EPH6600121	314	1000
Asfora EPH6600123	314	1000

Some models of Schindler dimmers can be connected to any lamps, incandescent, LED and halogen via a step-down transformer. Often these dimmers are used for heating when raising chicks in a brooder using an infrared lamp. Good brooder wiring diagrams are automated, the thermal relay automatically turns on and off to maintain the required temperature.

Tip No. 2 The dimmer for the IR lamp in the brooder should have a power of at least 800W.

Connecting a dimmer to a chandelier with two groups of lamps (double switch)

For chandeliers, double and triple switches are used to turn on different groups of lamps; corresponding dimmers are produced for this circuit.

The design contains two dimmers and a larger number of contacts; you can install two separate dimmers, each of which will be connected in series to a common phase and separately to its own group of lamps.

In concert halls, stadiums, large industrial premises with large areas, several dimmers are installed sequentially in the circuit in different places.

This connection scheme allows you not to cross long distances, but to use the nearest regulator

Features of connecting a dimmer to LED strips

LED strips are powered by DC voltage, 12; 24 or 36V, in this case a power supply, voltage converter 220/12V or other voltage is used.

For each circuit, it is necessary to calculate the power consumption and select the appropriate voltage converters and dimmers

The connection process itself is not complicated, the power supply is connected to the network, the output with polarity + and – to the dimmer input. LED strips are connected to the dimmer output in a parallel circuit.

Acceptable errors when connecting dimmers

It must be taken into account that not all LED lamps can operate from a simple thyristor or seven-storage dimmer. Only those that have a matching circuit with pulse width modulation. There are dimmers with a PWM circuit, then you can connect regular LED lamps. When purchasing, consult a specialist;
When connecting a dimmer, be sure to connect the phase wire to the terminal marked “L”, the wire from the lamp to the “N” terminal;
Correctly calculate the load on the dimmer; to do this, you need to add up the power consumption of the lamps in the circuit and install the appropriate dimmer. If there are 3 60W lamps in the circuit, a dimmer of at least 200W in power is required, with a margin. Otherwise, the semiconductor elements of the circuit may burn out;
When connecting LED strips, a voltage converter is sometimes confused with a step-down transformer. These are different things; you can connect halogen lamps through a step-down transformer, while the voltage remains variable. LED strips are connected through a voltage converter, it is reduced from 220V to 12V and converted to DC by a rectifier. In such a circuit, polarities must be taken into account.

FAQ

Question number 1. I’m rarely at the dacha, there are ordinary incandescent lamps, in the room there are 2 pieces on a 60W chandelier, which dimmer is more economical to install?

In this case, the simplest one using teristors is better.

Question number 2. There are four poles in the yard to illuminate the path to the gate, I change the lamps, they don’t always turn out the same, what dimmer would you recommend in this case?

There are good Schindler ones, practically adapted for all types of lamps, but you can’t go wrong with the power. Set it to 600W, even if 4 incandescent lamps of 100W power will be enough.

Question number 3. How to determine the required power of a dimmer and power supply for LED strips?

Characteristics of some LEDs:

This is a broad topic and requires separate consideration; in short, it depends on the type of LEDs in the strip. The tape indicates the power consumed by one diode and the entire tape. As a rule, the tape is cut into segments, so you need to count the number of diodes and multiply by the power of one, you get the total power consumption of a single segment. Choose a power supply and dimmer with a power reserve of approximately 25% more than the calculated one.

Question number 4. For LED spotlights on the ceiling, which dimmer is suitable?

Install a regular dimmer for LED lamps, but the lamps must have a dimming function.

Sometimes it becomes necessary to change the intensity of lighting. They do this with the help of light dimmers, which are often called "dimmer". Most of the devices are mounted instead of a conventional switch - directly into the same mounting box, and many look similar. How to connect a dimmer with your own hands? Simply - into the phase wire in series with the load. The installation schemes of the regulators are simple, you can handle it yourself.

Purpose and functions

Dimmers (in English dimmer) are used in everyday life to adjust the brightness of lamps, the temperature of heating devices (soldering irons, irons, electric stoves, etc.). These devices are also called dimmers or dimmers, although this is only one of the possible applications. They work most effectively with incandescent lamps, allowing them to extend their service life, since if there is a dimmer in the power circuit, the minimum current is supplied to the lamp when turned on. And as you know, it is the starting throws that cause them to fail.

Do not use dimmers with transformer or switching power supplies (TVs, radios, etc.). This is due to the peculiarities of the operation of the device - at the output, the signal does not look like a sinusoid, but only part of it (the tops are cut off with keys). When such power is supplied, the equipment fails.

Note! Conventional dimmers cannot be used with fluorescent lamps. Such a bunch will either not work at all, or the lamp will flash. To work with these sources, there are special devices with a different scheme. In general, conventional dimmers can only control incandescent or LED lamps. When energy-saving ones are connected to them, the “blinking” of light begins, and halogen ones are simply not regulated. But you can also adjust the brightness of the light for these types of lamps - there are special dimmers, but they are more expensive.

The very first dimmers were electromechanical and could only control the brightness of incandescent lamps. Modern ones can provide a number of additional functions:

turning off the light on a timer;
turning on and off the lighting at a certain time (presence effect, used for long departures);
acoustic control (by clap or voice);
possibility of remote control;
various modes of operation of the lamps - flashing, changing the temperature of the light, etc.;
the possibility of embedding in the "smart home" system.

The simplest dimmers still only adjust the brightness of the lighting, but this function turns out to be very useful.

Device and types

Dimmers are made on the basis of a different element base. All of them have their own characteristics and disadvantages. And in order to understand what a dimmer is and how it works, you need to figure out what a particular device is made of. So, there may be options:

When choosing a device, it is not so important to know what type it belongs to, how important it is to take into account the nature of the load to which it will be connected (incandescent and LED or fluorescent and housekeepers).

By type of execution, dimmers are:

Modular for DIN rail mounting. You can connect this type of dimmer with incandescent lamps, halogen lamps with a step-down transformer. For ease of use, they have a remote control button or a key switch. Such devices are convenient, for example, for controlling the illumination of the yard and the entrance gate from the house, the landing or the front door.
Dimmers on a cord. These are mini-devices that allow you to adjust the brightness of the glow of lighting fixtures that are plugged into an outlet - table lamps, wall lamps, floor lamps. It is only worth knowing that they are compatible mainly with incandescent lamps.
For installation in a mounting box. They are placed in the mounting box under the switch (in the same box). Compatible with incandescent, LED, halogen step-down and electronic transformer. They are controlled by a button that is placed on top of the device or connected to the smart home system.
Monoblock. In appearance, it is very similar to a conventional switch, it is placed in the same mounting box, it is possible instead of a switch. They are included in the phase circuit break (diagrams below). This type has a large species diversity. Which lamps such a dimmer can be connected to should be indicated on the case, but if it is an electronic circuit, then they work with incandescent lamps and some halogen and LED lamps (which are written dimmable or have an appropriate sign). Can be managed:

In private houses and apartments, monoblock dimmers are most often installed. In the house, a modular design can still be useful - to change the brightness of the lighting in the local area with the ability to control it from home. For such cases, there are models that allow you to control the illumination from two places - pass-through dimmers (they work according to the principle).

Monoblock dimmer connection diagram

Most often, monoblock dimmers are independently connected. They are put in place of a switch. With a single-phase network, the connection diagram is the same as on a conventional switch - in series with the load - in a phase break. This is a very important nuance. Dimmers are placed only in the gap of the phase wire. If you connect the dimmer incorrectly (into the neutral gap), the electronic circuit will fail. In order not to be mistaken, before installation, it is necessary to determine exactly which of the wires is the phase and which is the neutral (zero).

If we are talking about installing a dimmer in place of the switch, then you must first disconnect the wires from the switch terminals (with the power turned off on the panel), turn on the machine and use a tester, multimeter or indicator (screwdriver with LED) to find the phase wire (when touching the probe to the phase on the device some readings appear or the LED lights up, and there should be no potentials on the neutral (zero) wire).

The found phase can be marked in some way - put a line on the insulation, stick a piece of electrical tape, colored tape, etc. Then the power is turned off again (the input switch on the shield) - you can connect a dimmer.

The connection diagram of the dimmer is simple: the found phase wire is fed to the input of the device, from the output the wire goes to the load (in the figure to the junction box, and from there to the lamp).

There are two types of dimmers - in one, the input and output contacts are signed. In this case, you must follow the instructions and apply the phase to the signed input. On other devices, the inputs are not signed. In them, the phase connection is arbitrary.

Consider how to connect a dimmer with a rotary dial. First you need to take it apart. To do this, take out the disk - you need to pull it towards you. Under the disc is a button, which is fixed with a clamping nut.

We unscrew this nut (you can use your fingers) and remove the front panel. Under it is a mounting plate, which we will then screw to the wall. The dimmer is disassembled and ready for installation.

We connect it according to the scheme (see below): we start the phase wire at one input (if there is an input marking, then to it), we connect the conductor to the second input, which goes to the lamp / chandelier.

It remains to fix. We insert the connected regulator into the mounting box, fix it with screws.

Then we impose the front panel, fix it with the nut removed earlier and, last of all, install the rotary disk. Dimmer installed. Turn on the power, check the work.

How to connect a dimmer to an LED lamp or strip

There are no fundamental differences in the connection method. The only peculiarity is that the dimmer is placed in front of the controller for LED lamps or strips (see diagram). There are no other differences.

Everything is exactly the same: the dimmer is placed in a break in the phase wire, but its output is fed to the input of the led lamp or tape controller.

Installation of the dimmer Fibaro FGD211 with a switch

The peculiarity of this model is that it is compatible with the "smart home" system and is controlled from a computer. There are devices that are controlled with a regulator installed in a convenient place.

Dimmers that are installed in the junction box to the switch are also placed in the gap of the phase wire, but the installation process itself is slightly different. The switch is also removed, we find the phase, we mark the wire. Next, we take a dimmer, connect the terminals 0 and N with a jumper (a piece of copper wire in a sheath). We connect wire segments 7-10 cm long to contacts S1 and Sx.

The next step is to connect the regulator to the wiring. We install the phase wire on the connector with the letter L, zero - on N. We fill the connected device into the mounting box (we bend the wires).

We screw the switch frame into place, then put on the front cover and keys, program the system and check the operation.

If you need to connect a dimmer controlled by a button, there will be two more contacts in it, to which you will need to connect a remote button.

Features of selection and operation

When choosing a dimmer, you need to pay attention not only to what lamps it can work with and what functions it has. It is also necessary to look at what total load it is designed for. A maximum of one light dimmer can "pull" 1000 watts of load, but most models are designed for 400-700 watts. Eminent manufacturers, depending on the power, have a significant difference in price. Chinese products do not have a tangible difference in cost.

name	Power	Maximum current	Compatibility	Price	Manufacturer
Volsten V01-11-D11-S Magenta 9008	600 W	2 A	Incandescent lamps	546 rub	Russia/China
TDM Valdai RL	600 W	1 A	Incandescent lamps	308 rub	Russia/China
MAKEL Mimoza	1000 W/IP 20	4 A	Incandescent lamps	1200 rub	Türkiye
Lezard Mira 701-1010-157	1000W/IP20	2 A	Incandescent lamps	770 rub	Türkiye/China

The second point to remember is that dimmers work with a minimum load. Those, in most cases, have a minimum of 40 watts, some thousanders have 100 watts. If the connected lamps are of lower power, they may flicker or not light up. This happens when LEDs are used instead of incandescent bulbs. In this case, one of the lamps is left old (incandescent), which will provide the required minimum load.

Other features of operation are related to compatibility. As already mentioned, conventional dimmers cannot work with fluorescent lamps (including energy-saving ones). Halogen ones simply do not react to changes in the shape of the pulse. And if you decide to replace incandescent bulbs with more economical ones, most likely you will have to change the dimmer as well.