When it comes to energy usage, Tamworth homeowners are always looking for ways to reduce their energy costs without compromising comfort or safety. While many devices consume power in your home, your light systems will account for a large portion of your energy expenses each year. Though many homeowners have started to save money by making the switch to modern LED light fixtures and bulbs, there are additional methods for cutting down on energy costs.
Find out how to save on your electricity bills with our home energy audit.
What are Dimmer Switches?
A dimmer switch is a device that can be used to easily change the level of lighting produced by a connected fixture. They may be installed as part of the fixture or added on later by a licensed electrician, though some fixtures and bulbs are not compatible with these switches. A dimmer switch lets you control the output of light to adjust to different levels and moods through either touch panels, sliders, knobs, buttons or even your phone or tablet. For example, you may want to have a bright light in your home office during the day but want to reduce the light at night. A dimmer switch makes it easy to achieve this through a simple adjustment of a knob or slider.
Do Dimmer Switches Reduce Energy Costs?
Lighting technology has become extremely efficient over the past two decades. This is especially true for dimmer switches, as modern units can save you money while extending the usable life of your bulbs. Dimmer switches utilize a “Triac switch” to rapidly turn a light circuit on and off, reducing the amount of energy flowing to a lightbulb. This switch cuts the energy running to the fixture up to 120 times per second, resulting in rapid flickering that is perceived as a constant flow of light by the human eye.
Compatibility and Effectiveness
While dimmer switches work well with many types of lightbulbs, it is crucial to choose the right option for your current light fixture and type of bulb. For example, if you have a modern LED bulb in an old light fixture with an old dimmer switch, the dimming function will not work and you can damage the bulb during operation. To ensure that you are getting the most efficient and effective solution, it is best to hire a licensed electrician to install a dimmer switch alongside a new light fixture.
What Other Benefits Do Dimmer Switches Have?
- Extended Bulb Life
- Because bulbs operate at a lower output when dimmed, they generate less heat and stress, often lasting longer.
- Improved Ambience
- Dimmers allow you to set the perfect mood—bright for reading or tasks, soft for relaxation or entertaining.
- Increased Comfort
- They reduce eye strain by avoiding overly harsh lighting, especially at night.
- Versatility
- Suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, dining areas, and even bathrooms, giving one room multiple “personalities” depending on use.
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Soft lighting can make rooms feel more welcoming and highlight décor better than a fixed brightness setting.
- Better Control
- Modern dimmers can pair with smart systems, letting you control brightness via apps, voice assistants, or schedules.
- Safety at Night
- Low light can be used for moving around without fully waking you up or disturbing others.
- Eco-Friendly
- Reduced energy use and longer bulb life both contribute to sustainability.
- Cost-Effective Upgrade
- Installing dimmers is relatively inexpensive but significantly improves both the function and feel of a room.
How Do I Install a Dimmer Switch?
Dimmer switches are required by law to be installed by a licensed electrician. If you would like to find out if dimmer switches might be right for you, contact us or call 1800 00 2340.