Jvstevens
Member
Earlier this week I installed a single low voltage can light (electronic transformer) operated by a standard incandescent dimmer switch. The transformer specs say it works with standard dimmers. The can is a 4" and has a max bulb rating of 35W. When I turned it on, the light flickers when dimmed, but stays steady when fully on. After doing a little research, I've more or less come to the conclusion that the 35W load is too small for the dimmer to operate. Most dimmer specs I've seen require about a 40W load minimum. Another reason why I think this is the problem is because later on that day I installed another can light circuit, but with two 35W cans (70W total) and it works fine (same type of dimmer and transformer).
I'm now trying to figure out the best way to fix the situation. I can't increase the bulb wattage, I don't want to add another can light to the circuit, and I'd rather not change the dimmer (assuming I could even find one that goes down to 35W). So, I'm thinking of adding a passive resistive load to the low voltage circuit to bring the total power load above the minimum dimmer spec level. Yes, I know its kind of a waste of energy. Are their devices made specifically for this problem (say in Lutron or Leviton's product line), or do I have to conjure up my own solution using power resistor(s). Any guidance here would be greatly appreciated!
I'm now trying to figure out the best way to fix the situation. I can't increase the bulb wattage, I don't want to add another can light to the circuit, and I'd rather not change the dimmer (assuming I could even find one that goes down to 35W). So, I'm thinking of adding a passive resistive load to the low voltage circuit to bring the total power load above the minimum dimmer spec level. Yes, I know its kind of a waste of energy. Are their devices made specifically for this problem (say in Lutron or Leviton's product line), or do I have to conjure up my own solution using power resistor(s). Any guidance here would be greatly appreciated!