Increase lighting control without damaging your fixture.
Linear Fluorescent
Most demand for combining dimming systems with ballasted lamps falls in the linear fluorescent category. Fluorescent lamps cannot be simply added to the same type of dimming switches as incandescent or halogen lamps. In order for a fluorescent lamp to continue to function properly, the cathodes must be heated to a minimum level in order to maintain an arc in the tube. Using a fluorescent lamp on an incandescent dimming switch, the reduction of power would lead to a reduction in cathode temperature, and therefore a loss of arc.
Therefore, the best setups for dimming linear fluorescents are usually installed as a complete system designed to work together, from the fixtures to the lamps. Dimming systems are currently available for both magnetic and electronic ballasts, but due to legislation that has effectively banned most magnetic ballasts bulbs.com strongly recommends using an electronic ballast-based system.
Compact Fluorescents
CFL technology has improved dramatically and there are now many dimmable options available. In fact, many dimmable CFL lamps will smoothly dim down to 15% of their light output. When compared to incandescent lighting, these last longer and use much less energy making them a perfect replacement.
As with all fluorescent bulbs, they rely on ballasts inside of the fixtures or units to make them work. With these dimming compact bulbs, it’s especially critical that the ballast is one that is rated for dimming on incandescent dimmers. They don’t always work with every dimming situation, but in most of them, they work wonderfully.
There are several kinds of compact fluorescent bulb types including: spiral shape, R20, R30 and R40 sizes to replace almost any flood, track, wall sconce or table lamp bulb you may be using now.
For example, the R30 CFL dimmable is a suitable replacement for 65BR30 lamps, which are probably the most common flood light in use today. Whether you need ambiance at home or lowered lighting for a company meeting, dimmable CFLs will give you the look you want with added energy savings.
CFLs are somewhat flawed, most CFLs aren’t intended for outdoor use, and some will fail to turn on in colder temperatures — although you can find cold-cathode CFL bulbs rated for temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you would like to have an active “dimmable” fixture, consider using a ENERGY STAR qualified CFL (Compact Fluorescent Light)
Be sure to check the fine print on the back of the packaging for the proper applications to see if there are any restrictions on the product’s use. Dimming an ENERGY STAR qualified CFL that is not designed to work with a dimmer switch can shorten its life significantly.
To find a list of dimmable CFLs, visit the ENERGY STAR CFL Advance Search and search on “Dimmable CFL.” Your local hardware store may not stock a wide variety of dimmable CFLs, so if you are looking for a specific wattage or bulb type, you may want to try to purchase it online. The ENERGY STAR Store Locator lists local and online retailers who sell CFLs
