What Type of Dimmer is Best Suited for LEDs?

Why Is Dimmer Important For LEDs?

Reduces Energy Consumption

When you are using the light at full brightness, it burns more energy. But as you dim the light, less electricity flows through the LEDs. Thus, the reduced brightness cuts off the energy consumption. As a result, less energy is used, which also saves you electricity bills.

Offers Ambiance Customization Facility

Tired of working at your desk for hours and need some relaxation? A dimmer here allows you to lower the brightness of the light and create a comfortable ambiance in your space. This way, a dimmer offers you a light brightness adjustment facility that fits your needs.

Ensures Comfortable Lighting

Think of your bedroom; do you always need bright lighting there? Of course not. While you are studying or working, bright light is ok. But when relaxing in bed, you surely prefer a dimmed and soft light. A bright light at this point can be very uncomfortable. The glare from the bright light causes eye strain. It further hinders your relaxation and affects your sleep cycle. In such a situation, a dimmer effectively reduces the brightness of your bedroom lights and provides you with a comfortable and soothing illumination.

Extending LEDs’ Lifespan

Dimming the light reduces the thermal stress on the LEDs to a greater strength. When you run an LED at its fullest brightness level or overpower it, it gets overheated. This directly affects the lifespan of the light. Thus, you often need to replace the light. Dimming the light doesn’t overheat it and keeps the fixture working for a long time. Therefore, using a dimer can be a cost-effective solution in the long run.

How Do Dimmer Switches Work?

The main task of a dimmer switch is to dim the light; that is, to reduce the brightness of the fixture. For this, a dimmer reduces the voltage flow inside the LEDs. Due to low voltage, the brightness of the light decreases; as a result, the light dims.

However, different technologies are used in dimmer switches. Based on these technologies, the working mechanism of the dimmer differs. For instance, some dimmer switches, instead of reducing the voltage, rapidly switch the power on and off, offering a customizable lighting level to the users. We will learn details about all types of dimmers in the next section.

Type Of Dimmer For LED

1. Phase Dimming

In phase dimming, the dimmer adjusts the voltage to dim the lights. Additional wiring is not needed to alter the AC voltage waveform. Here, the dimmer is connected in series with the main power supply wire and supports dimming from 1% to 100% depending on the divers capacity.

Based on the AC voltage waveform cutting, phase dimming can be of two types; these are as follows:

a. Leading Edge Dimmers

Leading edge dimmers cut off the beginning (leading edge) of the AC waveform using a TRIAC. These dimers are usually used in traditional lighting, such as halogen and incandescent bulbs. However, some old-model LED lights with compatible drivers also use leading-edge dimmers.

b. Trailing-Edge Dimmers

Trailing-edge dimmers cut off the ending (trailing edge) of the AC waveform. It is a modern type of phrase-cut dimmer and uses Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFETs) or Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors (IGBTs) to control electricity flow. These are more energy-efficient than leading-edge dimmers and are specially engineered for LED and CFL bulbs.

2. 0-10V Dimming

Unlike the AC voltage cutting of phase dimming, 0-10V dimming uses a DC voltage between 0 and 10 volts for adjusting light brightness. It is considered an analog and is the most simple electronic signaling system. The dimmer puts the light to its minimum brightness at 0 volts, and at 10 volts, it puts the brightness of the light at its maximum level.

3. 1-10V Dimming

1-10V dimming is an older technology than 0-10V dimming. It can offer a minimal voltage of 1V to light, which gives 10% of the total light output. At 10V, it offers the fullest brightness, 100%. Unlike 0-10V dimming, you need to use a separate switch in 1-10V dimming to turn off the light. These dimmers are mostly used in older fluorescent lights and in some LEDs.

4. DALI Dimming

DALI stands for Digital Addressable Lighting Interface. It is an international standard that is constant and interchangeable between different manufacturers. You will find a DALI logo in these dimmers.

These dimers use a two-wire control system, forming a bidirectional communication between lighting fixtures and a central control system. Here, each fixture and driver has an individual address that allows you to have individual control over the lighting. The wow factor about the DALI dimmer is that you can pre-program the lighting to get the desired output for different applications.

5. Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)

The PWM method is one of the common light dining methods that turn on and off the light at high frequency to dim it. This gives an illusion of reduced brightness. The dimming here is calculated by its duty cycle. 100% duty cycle means the lights glow at full brightness. A 50% duty cycle means that the brightness is reduced to half. And the light completely turns off for a 0% duty cycle.

6. DMX Dimming

DMX stands for “Digital Multiplex”. It operates using an international protocol called DMX512. The number ‘512’ here refers to its 512 individual control channels per universe. You can control or program each of these channels individually. Thus, DMX dimming offers extended control over your light setting.

Besides dimming, it also allows adjustment of color, dynamics of light, and more. DMX512 is widely used in stage lighting, theatre lighting, and other applications where you want to achieve control over multiple fixtures.

Which Type Of Dimmer Is Best For LEDs?

The best dimmer for LED depends on its application. However, trailing edge dimmers are best and are specially designed for LEDs. These dimmers are highly compatible and can handle varying loads.

However, if you need a dimmer for commercial application, 0-10V and DALI are great options. They offer high scalability to meet commercial needs. Besides, if you need greater individual control of the lights for dynamic professional applications like stage, theatre or architectural light, choose DMX dimming.

The other dimmers, like the leading edge and 1-10V dimmers, are not compatible with LEDs. These go well with traditional lights like incandescent, halogen, and fluorescent.

Types Of Dimmer Switch For LED

a. Single Pole Dimmer Switches

In single pole switches, you can dim only one light from a single location. Such dimmer switches usually come with an on/off button, dial, or sliders. They have a very basic electrical configuration that includes a  hot, a neutral, and a ground wire. You can use these single pole switches for small rooms and residential uses.

b. 3-Way Dimmer Switches

3-way dimmer switches allow you to control more than one light from two different locations. Compared to single pole dimmer switches, they have a more complex configuration featuring four wires. Along with the hot and neutral wires, these dimmers contain two traveler wires. The purpose of these traveler wires is to connect the light to a different switch at another location. Thus, you can dim or control the light from two spots.

c. 4-Way Dimmer Switches

4-way dimmer switches work by combining two 3-way dimmer switches that act as a bridge. These dimmers allow you to control the light from three different locations. You can use them for large installations where multiple light controlling access is crucial, such as large hall rooms, corridors, etc.

d. Multi-Location Dimmer Switches

If you need light controlling from more than three or multiple locations, use a multi-location dimmer switch. It has a much more complex configuration than a 4-way dimmer switch but allows you greater control over lighting.

e. Smart Dimmer Switches

Smart dimmer switches are the latest innovation in the market. These switches allow you to control the lighting of the room from your smartphone, facilitating an internet connection. So, you can dim the light from anywhere without being physically present at the spot. Moreover, you can also set schedules to automate the dimming of lighting.

Guide To Choose The Best Dimmer For LED

1. Compatibility With LED

Before choosing a dimmer for your LED,  check on the type of dimmer. Remember, LEDs are not compatible with all kinds of dimmers. The dimer you select must be a trailing edge dimmer, 0-10V, DALI, or DMX. For general applications,  the trailing edge is widely compatible. However, a light that is compatible with the trailing edge doesn’t necessarily mean it will work with DMX. So, while you purchase the light bulb, check its dimming compatibility.

2. Load Capacity

Though LED lights use less power than traditional fixtures, they put additional stress on the dimmer. For this reason, you should buy dimmers with 10 times more load capacity than the total wattage of your LED light bulbs.

For example- you have five bulbs rated as 10W, so the total power here is (10W x 5)= 50W. So, the load capacity of the dimmer should be ten times it = (50W x 10) = 500W.

NB: This 10x rule is only applicable if you are using traditional dimmers that are designed for incandescent and halogen bulbs.

The dimmers that are designed for LED are rated exactly as the load capacity they can handle. That is, if it is labeled as 100W, it can handle exactly 100W LEDs.

3. Dimming Range

If you want greater control over lighting dimming, considering the dimming range is a must. It refers to the extent to which the dimmer allows you to reduce the brightness. A dimmer with 0% to 100% dimming range allows you complete control over the light’s intensity. You can also turn the light off using this dimmer. However, the dimer that offers 10% to 100% can be dimmed only to 10% of its total brightness. You can turn off the lights using the dimmer; it requires a separate switch. Below, I have added the dining range for different LED dimmer types:

4. Features

Want to use the dimmer more than just lowering light intensity? Here, I have listed some features to pick the best dimmer for your LEDs:

a. Flicker-free Dimming

To get the best dimming experience, always look for a flicker-free dimmer. For this, the quality of the dimmer must be prioritized. Choose a well-known and certified brand to purchase dimmers from. However, PWM and DALI dimmers are great for offering flicker-free dimming.

b. Multi-Zone or Group Control

If you need multi-zone or group control over your light setup, choose DALI or DMX dimmers. They support group or zone controlling in larger installations. Next, ease of installation is also a crucial factor to look for.

c. Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Connection

You must also check advanced features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi when connecting with the dimmer. These features will allow you to remote control the lighting. Thus, you can have a smart light set up for your space.

5. Certifications and Standards

All the brands claim to be the best. So, how do you know whether the dimmer you buy is authentic and maintains all international standards? To ensure these, you must go through the certifications like- UL, CE, RoHS, etc. This determines the high quality of the dimmers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with LED Dimmers

1. LED Flickering

It is one of the most common issues that you might face while using a dimmer. Using incompatible dimmers or low-quality LED lights causes flickering problems. Besides, if the wiring is loose or inappropriate, the light will end up flickering.

Solution:

• Check on the wiring and ensure it is tightened enough.
• Must use a compatible dimmer with the LED
• Replace the bulb with a new one of high quality. 

2. Light Not Dimming Properly

Due to the inappropriate dimmer load, you will have dimming issues. For instance, you are dimming the light down, but it doesn’t reduce the brightness. Another reason for such a problem can be an incompatible dimmer that is not designed for LED. This can cause the following dimming issues:

1. Dropout: When you dim the light, it suddenly cuts out before you pull the slider to the bottom. 
2. Pop On: It occurs when you move the slider to increase the brightness to a certain extent, but it suddenly reaches the brightest level.
3. Ghosting: Ghosting is when you dim the light to its lowest level, but the light still glows or illuminates a small amount.

Solution:

• Use dimmers that are specifically designed for LEDs
• Ensure the minimum load of the dimmer is met. Add more lights to it in case the load you have put on is not sufficient. However, don’t overload the dimmer.

3. Buzzing or Humming Noise

Overloading and incompatible dimmers cause a buzzing noise. This is very irritating as your light will constantly make humming noises when you turn the light on or dim it. 

Solution:

• Check the wattage that the dimmer supports and put the load accordingly 
• Use high-quality dimmers 
• Don’t overload the dimmer 

4. Short Lifespan of LEDs

Using an incompatible dimmer causes frequent voltage fluctuation in the LEDs. This damages the LED and reduces its lifespan. 

Solution:

• Check for voltage stability in the electrical system.
• Use certified dimmers that are compatible with your LED.

How To Differentiate Between A Leading Edge and a Trailing Edge Dimmer?

You can differentiate between a leading edge and a trailing edge dimmer by seeing their wave flow diagram. In a leading edge dimmer, the power cuts off at the very beginning of the waveform. These are used in incandescent and halogen lights. In contrast, in trailing edge dimmers, the power is cut off at the end of the waveform. This shows a smooth drop and is suitable for LED lights. 

Dimmer Installation Tips For LEDs

• Avoid buying leading-edge dimmers for LED; instead, purchase trailing-edge ones.
• Don’t overload the dimmer. 
• Ensure proper wiring between the dimmer and the LED; otherwise, it can cause flickering issues. 
• Check dimming levels and select one that supports full control over light intensity 
• Purchase the dimmer from a reliable source and look for better warranty policies