Which dimmer switch?

Ivrytwr3

We have recently purchased this item:

http://www.next.co.uk/shopping/homeware/living-room-accents/52/3?extra=sch&n=homeware&pid=703-162

We have fitted 8 x 10W 12V G4 bulbs, but are having problems with the dimmer switch we have fitted. When we turn on the dimmer it makes a loud buzzing noise.

Can anyone advise which switch we require? (brass, controls 1 light).

Many thanks

macman

As the link states, you need a 'Next compatible dimmer switch', i.e. one suitable for 12V lighting circuits and halogen bulbs.
Possibly this one? Or just get an equivalent from your local electrical wholesaler.
http://www.next.co.uk/shopping/homeware/living-room-accents/71/19?extra=sch&n=homeware&pid=716-494&returnurl=%2fsearch%2fsearch%3fp%3dQ%26lbc%3dnext%26uid%3d448993448%26ts%3dv8%26w%3ddimmer%2520switch%26af%3d%26method%3dand%26filter%3dsubset%253a4201%26nxtv%3d000%26nxti%3d0%26srt%3d0%23716%2d494&bct=%26quot%3bDimmer%20Switch%26quot%3b

Ivrytwr3

thanks - but was hoping NOT to buy the switches from next (£28 each!!!) We have to fit out 1 x dual dimmer, and 2 x single dimmers throughout the house, so going through Next could be expensive!

So when searching B&Q, Homebase etc, what type of switch am i looking for?

"12V dimmer switch for halogen bulbs." ?

Ta

macman

So got to your local electrical wholesaler as suggested, they will have a far better range at lower prices than the sheds.
Or try TLC Direct if you want to buy online.

baldelectrician

You need to find out what make the transformer is (inside the fitting)

The Next dimmer section mentions Varilight

Varilight dimmers work well with Varilight transformers (no surprise there), but may not work or may even damage the electronics in the transformer if it isn't Varilight (had issues with JCC transformers in the past)

The transformers are really like switched mode power supplies, an actual transformer used to be easy to work with and dimmed very well (no compatibility issues), it' all electronic now- thus the reason for issues

You have to marry the dimmer to the transformer, and make sure they are compatible

Ivrytwr3

will this one do it?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Varilight-Georgian-Brass-1-x-400w-Rotary-dimmer-Switch-/130314337937?pt=UK_Light_Fittings&hash=item1e5756fe91

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Varilight-Polished-Brass-1-Gang-Dimmer-Light-Switch-/360266340645?pt=UK_Light_Fittings&hash=item53e18c1925

Ivrytwr3

and why are some £8.99 and others £26.99 for what appears the same model?!

baldelectrician

Ivrytwr3 wrote: »

and why are some £8.99 and others £26.99 for what appears the same model?!

Beacuse they think they can get away with it

You need to find out what the make of the transformer in the light is and the make of the dimmer they sell

You get inductive, reactive, trailing edge and leading edge dimmers (amongst others) so it's important to know what you need
They all look the same, but differ in function and performance- and compatibility

themacster

Try 1stopelectrics.com who specialise in the Varilight range - I have found them very helpful when asking about suitability of dimmer switches to various light fittings. You do need to make sure you get the right type so it's worth asking the specialists.