Dimmers are not just for romantic evenings, most of the time lighting designs are set to have maximum
illumination given some expected task. In dimming your lights by 25% you will reduce energy usage by 20%; a 50% reduction nets a 40% savings. Use of
dimmers has the added benefit of increased bulb life.
If every household in the U.S. installed one dimmer, we would reduce CO2 emissions equivalent to that from 370,000 cars.
Dimmed bulbs last up to 10 years, reducing landfill waste.
The more you dim, the more you save.
Installation
Installation is straightforward, but it involves electrical wiring so if you are at all uncomfortable ask for help from a qualified individual.
First, shut off the power at the main breaker.
Test to confirm that the power has been cut.
Remove the switch plate cover.
Remove the two screws holding the switch in place.
The old switch should have two black wires leading to it, remove both wires and securely reconnect the two wires to your new dimmer as they were on the old switch.
Tuck everything back into the wall.
Secure the two mounting screws.
Install the cover plate.
Turn the power back on at the main breaker.
Test to confirm that the timer is operational.
Note: Some dimmers have added functions i.e. L.E.D. indicators and preset memory. This adds a red and green wire to the installation; follow the instructions on the packaging. If you are at all uncomfortable ask for help from a qualified individual.
That is it, you now have a functioning dimmer that will save energy, increased bulb life and reduce CO2 emissions.
Dimmers are not just for romantic evenings, most of the time lighting designs are set to have maximum
illumination given some expected task. In dimming your lights by 25% you will reduce energy usage by 20%; a 50% reduction nets a 40% savings. Use of
dimmers has the added benefit of increased bulb life.
