[JB in TV]

Our new Designer Gardenia (spec) home has many dimmer light switches in and around the kitchen, which we though was way overkill, but no biggy. We are used to having just one dimmer for the light over our dining room table. So this was kinda cool.

During our unpacking today we unpacked a box with our CFL light bulbs, (those curly-q bulbs that will save our planet, or so some say, anyway ) This post is not intended to start a discussion on the merits of such bulbs

We couldn't wait to get them in...but...the CFL bulbs now flicker, and the dimmer switches are buzzing. If I fiddle with the dimmer position, I can get the bulbs not to flicker, but the swith still makes a low buzzing sound. I knew they wouldn't dim, but our previous experience with dimmers and CFLs indicated we would just lose the dimming ability.

I have thought about changing the dimmer switches out and installing normal on - off switches. Any constructive ideas or comments? Thanks!

[Ecuadog]

I believe that you can buy dimmable CFLs.

[KayakerNC]

From Home Depot.
"Dimmable CFLs are designed to work with fixtures wired to a dimmer switch. A dimmable CFL cannot produce the same range of light levels as an incandescent bulb connected to a dimmer, however. Dimmable CFLs typically dim down to about 20% of total light output. Below that, the bulb switches off. If you want to use a CFL with a dimmer switch, make sure you choose a bulb with “dimmable” on the packaging."

Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs Buying Guide

[justjim]

Thanks for the information.----I have been wondering if they would work in my lights that have dimmers. You just saved me some money.

[mulligan]

Another option would be to dispose of the hazardous material, and replace them with LED units. IMHO much better light, and dimmable for sure.

[Bill-n-Brillo]

About 4 years ago, we experimented with a couple of "dimmable CFL" bulbs in some ceiling can light controlled by a dimmer. Did not do anything resembling dimming - we were disappointed.

It might be worth trying some of them with a dimmer - technology with the dimmable CFLs might have improved in the last few years.

We opted to go with the CFLs and no dimmer - just a standard wall switch.

Bill

[JB in TV]

Appreciate the comments.

I am aware that there are CFLs that are dimmable, but we really don't need these lights to dim.

KayakerNC, thanks for the Home Depot link, lots of good info on CFLs.

mulligan, We haven't looked at LEDs... I'll have a look and see what they might cost next time I am in Home Depot. Although we have all these CFLs....

I'm thinking the easiest and cheapest solution is to change out the dimmer swithches to regular switches. They can't cost more that $1 or 2 each, and are easy enough to change. I'm talking about 3 switches...Nook, and the two sets of ceiling lights in the kitchen.

Bill, thanks, you posted while I was typing...

[2 Oldcrabs]

Used CFL's in all our lights. Had to change all the dimmers to on/off switches. With dimmers and all the lights on, it would trip the breaker. LED is the way to go but I will wait until the cost come down.

[l2ridehd]

CFL's even if designated dimmer type, do not work well. Go LED's. They work well and will dim as expected. They cost a whole lot more, but also save a lot more and last forever. I did a string of 100 LED's around the pool, and bought 10 spare bulbs. Even though they are on a every night for 6 hours, I still have 10 spares. And for 100 bulbs I am using a total of 75 watts.

For you kitchen lights you will want a 10 or so watt LED which will cost around $12. But will work with the dimmer and you will never have to replace it. Most are rated either 50,000 or 100,000 hours.