Do the new energy saving lightbulbs work with dimmer switches?

Question

I'd like to switch but most of my light switches have dimmer switches on them.

Will this make the bulb buzz? Do they make these bulbs in a 3 way style since I have many 3 way lights as well?

Also I have quite a few IKEA ceiling light fixures that use bulbs with narrow stems, do they make energy savers like that?

Do you have a brand of bulb to recommend over any others?

I watched Al Gore's "Live Earth" concert and went on line and promised I'd switch some of my bulbs now I need help inplementing the plan!

Answer 1

We have energy saving light bulb which allow dimmier by using remote control up to 10 meter control, if you interested, please sent us an email.

Answer 2

Some are designed to work with dimmer switches, but they're expensive.  3-ways are available but also expensive.

That will change as new bulbs and new dimmer switches are being designed.

For right now, you can simply replace the single wattage bulbs you have that are on regular switches.  There are lots of ways to help the environment, do the ones that work for you.

By the way, using compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) actually reduces mercury pollution.

Fossil fuels contain mercury.  Using incandescent bulbs causes more mercury to be emitted from power plants.  More than the tiny amount (0.005 grams or less) that is in a CFL.

It's better if you dispose of old CFLs properly so that even the tiny amount of mercury is not released.  But, no matter how they're disposed of, CFLs reduce mercury pollution.

http://www.cityofberkeley.info/sustainab...

http://www.snopes.com/medical/toxins/cfl...

Answer 3

they dont.

Answer 4

you can use them with a dimmer switch as long as you turn it to the full setting and do not use the dimmer itself.....If you look at the package it tells you not for use with dimmer switches......

as for the narrow stems I don't know if they make energy savers for them....for those you can pick the lower wattage bulb.

good question YOU GET A STAR

Answer 5

What you call "energy saving bulbs" are in fact Compact Fluorescent bulbs (CFL), of the self-ballasted type (meaning you can s***w them into any medium base incandescent socket. Self-ballasted CFL bulbs are not dimmable and are mean to be used only as an on-off device. You should also be aware that you get energy savings from these bulbs when they're used for long periods of time. If you turn them on and off several times a day you will actually decrease the life of the bulb therefore having to buy a new one.

CFL bulbs come in many different shapes and sizes. You may not find all types at Home Depot or your local hardware store. Contact a local electrical distributor in your area. They typically have access to a wider range of product offerings for CFL bulbs.

Brand names are better: osram, philips, panasonic.

Have fun taking care of our planet!!

Answer 6

I'm pretty sure that most normal compact fluorescent bulbs cannot be used with dimmer switches. The do come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and also wattage's so go to a large store and see which ones you can use. Also not sure about the narrow stems but just bring your existing bulbs in and ask the store assistants.

I know Phillips make an "A" rated bulb but they are all good. Make sure you get a ten year life rather than a 6 year life as the price difference is very small. Westinghouse may have a summable model.

Good work!

Oh and energy saving light-bulbs are not new! They have been readily available and used in Europe for nearly a decade.

Answer 7

To use a compact fluorescent bulb on a dimmer switch, you must buy a bulb that's specifically made to work with dimmers (check the package).

Answer 8

CFLs will cause more problems than they will solve... they contain mercury (as do *all* florescent lights) They require special handling to keep the mercury out of the landfills... if dropped and broken it is recommended that you leave the room for an hr. DO NOT use a vacuum to clean up the mess. This and all florescent are hazardous waste and must be handled properly. A better solution would be LED. lights, which can use a dimmer and are even more energy efficient.  Unfortunately, for now, they also cost a lot more.

Answer 9

The ones I use are like a shaped florescent bulb. I don't think it would be a good idea to use them with a dimmer switch. I haven't seen any around here with the small base yet.

Hope this helps,  

Love is the answer,  Pandora

Answer 10

no

Answer 11

Yes they do I have many in my house!