Upgrade Lighting To Led Remove Dimmers

Upgrading to LED Lighting: Removing the Dimmers

Switching to LED lighting is a fantastic way to improve energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy longer-lasting bulbs. However, if you're planning this upgrade, you might encounter a common issue: your existing dimmer switches may not be compatible with LED bulbs. This article will guide you through understanding why, and how to safely and effectively remove your dimmer switches and replace them with standard switches to fully enjoy the benefits of your new LED lighting.

Why LED Bulbs and Dimmers Don't Always Mix

Many older dimmer switches are designed to work with incandescent or halogen bulbs, which have a different electrical load and current draw compared to LEDs. These differences can lead to several problems:

• Flickering: This is the most common issue. The dimmer might not regulate the power to the LED correctly, causing them to flicker annoyingly.
• Buzzing: A humming or buzzing sound from the dimmer switch is another symptom of incompatibility.
• Dimming Issues: Even if the lights don't flicker or buzz, you might find the dimming range is limited or uneven. You might only be able to dim the lights to a certain point before they start to flicker, or the dimming might be jerky instead of smooth.
• Premature Bulb Failure: In some cases, the incorrect power delivery from the dimmer can damage the LED bulb, shortening its lifespan considerably.

Identifying Your Dimmer Switch and its Wiring

Before starting any electrical work, always turn off the power at the breaker box. This is crucial for safety. Once the power is off, you can begin to examine your dimmer switch:

• Switch Type: Note the brand and model number of the dimmer switch – this might be helpful if you need to find a replacement later.
• Wiring Configuration: Carefully examine how the wires are connected. Take pictures or make a detailed sketch. This will be vital for reinstalling the new switch (if you decide to use a dimmer compatible with LEDs). Typically, you'll find a ground wire (usually bare copper or green), a neutral wire (usually white), a hot wire (usually black), and a load wire (usually black or red).

The Simple Solution: Replacing Dimmers with Standard Switches

The simplest and often most cost-effective solution is to replace your dimmer switches with standard light switches. This eliminates compatibility issues entirely, ensuring your new LED lights function perfectly. You'll be able to turn your lights fully on or fully off. While you might lose the dimming feature, the reliability and longevity of your LED bulbs will greatly outweigh this inconvenience for many.

Steps to Remove and Replace a Dimmer Switch:

1. Turn off the power: This is the most crucial step!
2. Remove the dimmer plate: Unscrew and carefully remove the faceplate of the dimmer switch.
3. Loosen the switch screws: Gently loosen the screws holding the dimmer switch in the electrical box.
4. Disconnect the wires: Carefully disconnect the wires one by one, noting their positions. You can use a wire nut to secure individual wires if this helps to manage them.
5. Remove the dimmer switch: Once the wires are disconnected, carefully remove the dimmer switch from the electrical box.
6. Install the new standard switch: Connect the wires to the new standard switch according to your previous notes or photos, ensuring all connections are secure.
7. Secure the switch: Secure the new standard switch in the electrical box and reattach the faceplate.
8. Restore power: Turn the power back on at the breaker box and test your new switch.

Considering LED-Compatible Dimmers (Advanced Option)

If dimming is a must-have, consider replacing your dimmer switches with LED-compatible dimmers. These dimmers are specifically designed to work with LED lights, preventing flickering, buzzing, and other compatibility issues. However, always check the dimmer's compatibility with your specific type of LED bulbs before purchasing.

Conclusion:

Upgrading to LED lighting offers numerous advantages, but dimmer switch compatibility can be a hurdle. By following the steps outlined above, you can confidently remove your incompatible dimmer switches and either install standard switches for reliable operation or invest in LED-compatible dimmers for retained dimming functionality. Remember, safety is paramount – if you're uncomfortable working with electricity, consult a qualified electrician.