Z-wave Solutions Guide: The Basics Of Light Dimming

By Author: Leola Huffman
Total Articles: 35
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All Z-Wave dimmers can save energy, but each one is designed with its own set of capabilities. Learn basic facts about the Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller and Z-Wave Plug-in Switch Controller.

A dimmer lets you easily adjust the brightness level in any room, giving you a wide array of lighting moods. Aside from providing us with lighting that adapts to our needs, dimmers also can also save energy and extend the life of our light bulbs. If you’ve never had a dimmer switch or a Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller on any of your lighting, you’re in for a big treat. The easy to use Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller will add relaxing ambiance to every room in your house. Stress-relieving spa-like bubble baths and romantic steak dinners can become an everyday affair. Z-Wave dimmers are reasonably inexpensive – some within the $40 range. Though some Z-Wave dimmers may go as high as $150, you can be assured that you’ll get your money’s worth. This article will help you understand the different types of dimmers out in the market, so you can feel confident you’re ...
... selecting the perfect one for your home.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Dimmer:

● The Type of Dimmer - Single-pole, 3-way or 4-way, multi-location, plug-in (Z-Wave plug-in dimmers work instantly by just plugging into existing electrical outlets. You use them the same way you use a timer.)

● The Source of the Lighting – The type of the bulb and its wattage.

● The Style of Control - Rotary, slide, toggle, rocker, tap and scene selector

Choosing a Dimmer Type

1.
Single pole dimmer switches are for light fixtures with only one dimmer to control. Three-way and four-way dimmers are perfect for light fixtures with one dimmer and multiple switches in different locations. Table lamps or floor lamps can be dimmed with a plug-in dimmer.

2.
Be sure to match the dimmer to the type of the bulb and its wattage. Choose a dimmer made for the type of light fixture and the bulb you have. Calculate the total wattage of your lighting and choose a dimmer ranged for that wattage level or higher.

3.
Choose the control style. Rotary dimmers make use of a simple knob control and slide dimmers have a slider control. Toggle dimmers have a standard toggle switch, with a compact slider to adjust light levels. Rocker dimmers are perfect for decorator-themed rocker switches. Tap dimmers have button controls or a touchpad. Scene selector dimmers, which let you jump to your favorite light settings, can be matched with any Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Controller.

The Source of the Lighting
There are different bulb varieties, each with unique characteristics that need a specific type of dimmer. It’s highly important to choose a dimmer made for the type of bulb you’re using. Common bulb type categories are:

● Incandescent and halogen bulbs

● Dimmable compact fluorescent light bulbs

● Magnetic Low Frequency (MLV)

● Electronic Low Frequency (ELV)

Wattage
The wattage rating of your dimmer should be carefully noted. Be sure that it meets or exceeds the total wattage of all light bulbs the dimmer will control.

About the Author:

Leola Huffman, raised in in Center Line, in 2007 Michigan graduated from DeVry University. After she graduates in May 2007, Leola plans to move to Baltimore, Maryland, where she will teach public school as a Teach for America corps member. During her two years with Teach for America. Leola Huffman will earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Johns Hopkins University. For more info, read more.