Dimmer Switch For Halogen Light

[Maggoty]

I have bought a halogen light from Next and it needs a dimmer switch that's compatible. The only ones they do are chrome and single, I really need a double in black nickel so that I don't have to change all the light switches in the room.

I have already bought two 400w from B&Q (on their say so) and they make the light buzz and flicker like billyo.

What should I look for? I put in "halogen compatible dimmer" in Amazon and it came up with a 500w 2 gang 2 way dimmer. But that has the heading of Double LED dimmer.

Will that work?

[The Builder]

Maggots, there are squillions of different halogen lamps around. Can you give more info?

[EDDIE51]

something like this ?
http://www.lumalighting.co.uk/Click+Deco+Satin+Chrome.176/VPSC140/Click+1+gang+2+way+400w+dimmer+switch.html?gclid=CLvYk6Sw2bgCFRMRtAod0EcANQ

[Maggoty]

I'm afraid NEXT don't give much away :-(. And, as you can tell I don't have a scooby! I yearn for the days of simple light bulbs :-)

Its described as "Chrome base plate with 5 adjustable glass shades. Bulbs included. Spares 20W halogen G4 bulbs"

here is the link : http://www.next.co.uk/x523154s9#859032x52

Does that help?

x

[Robinia]

Ooh, lovely lights Maggoty.
Have you got a Screw-fix in your area? They're very good for advice. I haven't studied the info but there are some on their website
http://www.screwfix.com/c/electrical-lighting/dimmer-switches-400w/cat4480024

btw I love the dog, is he yours?

[Maggoty]

Yes - he's my gorgeous F1 UK Labradoodle - Eric. He's more of a labradonkey tho :-)

Thanks will contact screwfix

x

[Robinia]

lol, he's lovely...Eric, haha. I had a std poodle, so entertaining. :)

[Maggoty]

Screwfix were worse than useless. Suggested I replace the bulbs with ordinary bulbs!! Tried to tell him they wouldn't fit but he just rambled on about halogen bulbs not being dim-able.

Arggggggggh


x

[Robinia]

oh that's a shame, ours have been good but then I do go to the store itself, it's not far away and full of young handymen in overalls at lunchtime. ;o)

Hope someone comes along on here who can help.

[The Builder]

Maggots............ you've entered the twilight world of dimming. Even the trade outlets don't always know which one to use. There are so many varieties of lamps around.
12volt
Mains voltage
LED
Halogens etc etc

It's not always just getting the right dimmer......... it also depends on the load. Sometimes, 400w and 500w dimmers just won't work if the load is too small for them to control it properly.

There is a type called an "intelligent dimmer"

http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Wiring_Accessories_Menu_Index/Wiring_Accessories~Dimmers_All/Wiring_Accessories~Dimmers_LV/index.html

Screwfix and builders merchants won't have a clue. Try a proper electrical trade outlet such as CEF or TLC. They should know........... possibly.

Check back here later today or this evening. Guru BRIGHT SPARK might see this. He'll know.

[Maggoty]

Thank you

I tried a company called City Electrical - they didn't have a clue, neither did Toolstation. Its driving me nuts!! :-)

Will check back first thing in the morning in case any of the evening posters know.

Thanks guys!

Alison

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Maggs...as wheatabix said...we need more info...is it 12v...230v and what is the wattage total?

[Maggoty]

There are five bulbs at 20watts each. I have no idea of the voltage :-(

Sorry

[BRIGHT SPARK]

I think you have 5 x 20w halogen lamps with the g4 type fitting (two pins).These are possibly 12v. You will need to confirm that the transformer in the fitting is dimmable....ask at Next. If it is, then get the appropriate dimmer switch.Dont buy a cheap one or the buzzing will drive you mad.I guess you have a dimmer for 230v mains use.....hence the flickering.