Light Dimmer Switches (115 items found)

Installing a dimmer light switch is one of the easiest ways to enhance the atmosphere of a room. Simply by replacing one or more regular light switches with dimmer switches, you can control the illumination levels in a space to create moods ranging from relaxing to brightly energizing, all at the turn of a dimmer knob or the push of a slider. 

Key Dimmer Light Switch Types 

There are a quite a few different types of dimmer switch types, but single pole, 3-way, and 4-way dimmer switches are highly popular. 

• Single pole switch: The single pole dimmer switch controls one or more fixtures from a single switch. They are good for use in rooms with few light sources. 
• 3-way dimmer switch: Three-way switches offer controllable light levels and can be used to control a single light circuit from two separate locations and are always installed in pairs. 3-way dimmer switches are ideal for hallways, stairwells and bedrooms, removing the need to walk in the dark to reach a switch. 
• 4-way dimmer switch: A 4-way switch can control a single circuit from three separate locations. These designs are less common than single pole or 3-way switches but are a good option for large spaces with multiple entrances and exits.

What Is a Touch Dimmer Switch? 

Although regular switches with a dimmer knob are a quick and easy way to control lighting levels, a more modern solution is a touch dimmer switch that uses a touch-sensitive design to activate the dimming circuits. This method offers a more slimline and unobtrusive design that fits into contemporary decor styles and allows dimming control at the touch of a fingertip.

Controlling Dimmable LED Bulbs 

An LED dimmer switch can be used to control low-wattage LED lighting in situations where the total lighting load isn't high enough to work with traditional light dimmers designed for halogen or incandescent lighting. However, make sure that the LED bulbs you buy are compatible with dimming circuits, as the standard low-cost options aren't guaranteed to be dimmable.

Are Smart Light Switches Dimmable? 

Smart switches are typically dimmable with advanced technology allowing for easy integration into your existing home lighting setup. Depending on the smart switch model, it may or may not require a neutral connection. Smart switches with Wi-Fi accessibility allow you to control your smart lights from your smart device for greater convenience. 

Where Can You Use Light Dimmers? 

A dimmer light switch can be used to replace almost any traditional light switch, whether it's for a main overhead fixture, individual alcove lighting, or multiple wall lights on a single circuit. You could also use a dimmer light switch to add versatility to a space, replacing multiple traditional switches with a single unit for easier control, then replacing the gaps left by removed switches with an unobtrusive wall plate. 

However, you should never install light dimmer switches on a regular electrical outlet to control a desk lamp, for example, as this can lead to short circuits, overloads and other dangerous faults. It may also violate typical electrical code regulations.

Shop Light Dimmer Switches and Knobs at Ace Hardware 

At Ace, we make it easy to add atmospheric illumination control to your rooms, with our dimmer light switch collection providing all the types and designs you need for any decor style. Browse our extensive range above from Lutron, Leviton and other brands, then order online for fast shipping or free in-store collection.