Is there a good energy efficient light bulb that works with dimmer switches?

Question

Is there a good energy efficient light bulb that works with dimmer switches?

Answer 1

Some CFL's are compatible with many dimmers, and there are some specialized dimmers that work well with CFL and tubular fluorescents, as well as with small motors.

Be aware that fluorescent lamps have a limited dimming range; at the dimmest, they're still not "mood lighting".

The problem with _some_ dimmer/ballast combinations is that the dimmer may fail to "commutate" and therefore feeds pulsating DC, rather than AC, into an inductive device (motor or lamp ballast). This can cause the windings to overheat and literally "burn out" the device.

Answer 2

http://www.eartheasy.com/live_energyeff_...

says at bottom of page that these can be used.

Answer 3

I've seen them but they're not on the market yet, but someone found a way to make flourescent lights work with dimmers, it is amazing stuff, but hasn't been applied to CFLs yet I don't think.

So it's a few years until they're here.

One option is to switch that dimmer for a regular switch and get dimmer bulbs if you often use the more dim lighting.

PS: I just read above, guess I'm wrong.

Answer 4

Get a plug in fluorescent lamp that shows it will work with dimmers (more expensive than regular ones!)  ~

Answer 5

Hi Mark!  Do you have an IKEA near by?  If so, have a look at their CFL bulbs.  Some of them were marked as being OK to use with dimmers.

Answer 6

There are CF bulbs that are dimmable. Here is a list of those that are: http://www.environmentaldefense.org/page...

Answer 7

a (cfl) compact flurescent lightbulb

Answer 8

some do, some don't

Answer 9

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). GE makes a dimming compact fluorescent light bulb (called the Energy Smart Dimming Spirals®) that is specially designed for use with dimming switches. We don't recommend using regular compact fluorescent bulbs with dimming switches, since this can shorten bulb life. (Using a regular compact fluorescent bulb with a dimmer will also nullify the bulb's warranty.)

Read the second link: Dim and Dimmer  - it will help you understand more about using your dimmer and CFL's