Switches & Dimmers Buying Guide

Before buying a new dimmer or switch, there are a few things to consider:

1. Functionality and Features: Determine the type of switches you need (e.g., single-pole, three-way, dimmer, smart switches, timers, motion sensors). Consider additional features like dimming capabilities, compatibility with smart home systems, and programmable settings.

2. Number of Switches or Dimmers: Count the number of switches you'll need for each room or area. Take note of any multi-gang switch boxes (those with multiple switches in one unit) to ensure compatibility.

3. Aesthetics and Design: Choose a design and color that complements the room's decor and matches the wall paint or switch plate covers. Common colors include white, ivory, almond, and black. Decide between traditional toggle switches, rocker switches, or touch-sensitive switches based on your preference and the room's style.

Product Collection	Available Colors
adorne Collection	White, Magnesium, Graphite, Nickel
radiant Collection	White, Magnesium, Graphite, Red, Brown, Nickel, Black, Dark Bronze, Grey, Ivory, Clear
Smart Lighting with Netatmo	White, Magnesium, Graphite, Nickel, Light Almond

4. Compatibility and Integration: If you're considering smart switches, ensure they're compatible with your existing smart home ecosystem (e.g., Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit). Check compatibility with the type of bulbs you plan to use to avoid compatibility issues or flickering.

LED Bulbs: LED bulbs require a specific type of dimmer switch that is designed to work with LED technology. Our compatible dimmers are tailor-made to enhance the performance of your LED bulbs, ensuring seamless dimming and maximum energy efficiency. Say goodbye to flickering and uneven lighting—experience the perfect ambiance in every room.
CFL Bulbs: For those still loyal to CFL bulbs, we've got you covered too! Our specialized dimmer switches are engineered to complement CFL technology, providing smooth dimming capabilities for optimal comfort and energy savings.
Incandescent Bulbs: Our compatible dimmer switches don't just stop at LED and CFL bulbs—they elevate the timeless charm of incandescent bulbs to new heights. Effortlessly adjust the brightness of your incandescent lighting with precision and ease. With both forward-phase and reverse-phase dimming options, our devices deliver an unparalleled dimming experience. Check out compatible incandescent dimmers now!
Halogen Bulbs: Compatible with a wide range of halogen bulbs, our devices ensure smooth and precise dimming control, giving you the power to create the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Illuminate your space with unparalleled versatility and sophistication.

5. Energy Efficiency: Look for energy-saving features such as timers, motion sensors, or programmable dimming settings to help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

6. Grounding Requirements: Check the grounding requirements for your switches and dimmers, especially if you're replacing older switches or installing them in older homes. Ensure that your electrical boxes are properly grounded. In some cases, you may need to install a ground wire or use a grounding pigtail to connect the switch to the grounding system. Most 3-way switches use 3 screw terminals (one common and two traveler terminals) in addition to its grounding screw. A single-pole switch only uses two.

Before Installing a new dimmer or switch, there are a few steps you need to take:

Decide the bulb type: (Dimmers only) Different types of bulbs require different types of dimmers. Decide which bulbs you plan to use and make sure your bulbs are compatible with the dimmer switch you plan to install. For example, LED bulbs require a specific type of dimmer switch that is designed to work with LED technology.

Check the wattage: (Dimmers only) Dimmer switches are rated for a specific wattage range. Make sure your bulbs are within the wattage range recommended for the dimmer switch you plan to install. Using bulbs that exceed the recommended wattage can cause the dimmer switch to overheat and fail. Our Dimmers range from 150 watts to 1,600 watts. You can check your home’s wattage range using a wattmeter or power meter, which are widely available at hardware stores or online retailers.

Check the wiring: Make sure the wiring in your home is compatible with the type of dimmer switch you plan to install. The Hot or Common Wire (usually black, might be connected to a black screw on the switch itself); the Neutral Wire; and the Ground Wire (usually a bare, copper wire). Note that for 3-way switches, additional Traveler Wire(s) will be present.

Test the current switch: If you're not sure whether your current switch is compatible with a dimmer switch, you can test it by installing a dimmer switch on a single light fixture and observing the results. If the dimmer switch works properly, it should smoothly adjust the brightness of the light. If it flickers or doesn't work properly, it may not be compatible. Try flipping the switch itself and breaking out the voltage tester. For your safety, no further action should be taken until you are positive all power to the switch has been turned off.

Installing your new switch: Before beginning any installation, always turn off power to the area where you will be working at the breaker. This will ensure that no electricity is flowing to the wires or devices you will be handling and will prevent the risk of electrical shock. Note that turning off the switch for a particular room may not be enough, as power may still be flowing to other areas of the room or adjacent rooms. Always turn off power at the breaker to ensure complete safety.

**Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. Each wiring device is unique and may have specific instructions for proper installation. Failing to follow these instructions can lead to improper wiring, which can be dangerous and may not function correctly. Manufacturer instructions may also include specific safety guidelines, such as recommendations for handling wires or tools or avoiding certain hazards.