[Frank Smith]

These are the Spotlights I plan to get.
And this is the dimmer I have orderd.

I noticed on the instructions for the dimmer that it is only compatiable with 60-150W Halogen bulbs but the bar light has 50W bulbs. What I want to know is if you think the dimmer will still work. Also, assuming that it does not, how could I get around the problem?

Many thanks!

[neilball]

If you light fitting has a 300W total load and your dimmer is only rated to 150W then it is not suitable. Either pick a fitting with load that is matched to the dimmer or get a different dimmer suitable for the fitting you want to use.

[Frank Smith]

Oh thanks, but that sucks. £40 for the dimmer and I have already orderd it : ( It says 150W per output, I was hoping in meant bulbs. Grr, I will look for another one but it's a pain!
I will try and cancel but do you know if a standard dimmer will work?

Edit: What will happen if I install it?

[neilball]

Overload the dimmer and it may either blow an internal fues (if one is fitted), shut down (if it monitors the power/current drawn and "sees" the overload) or overheat (either switching off if fitted with a thermal overload or burn out if not). In all cases it is not recomended and potentially dangerous.

If you bought the unit online then you can return it for refund, if bought in a shop then take it back.

I would recommend a dimmer with 400W rating so you are not running it at its maximum rated capacity. Any standard rotary dimmer or IR controllable dimmer with this capacity will be fine.

[Frank Smith]

Originally Posted by neilball

Overload the dimmer and it may either blow an internal fues (if one is fitted), shut down (if it monitors the power/current drawn and "sees" the overload) or overheat (either switching off if fitted with a thermal overload or burn out if not). In all cases it is not recomended and potentially dangerous.

If you bought the unit online then you can return it for refund, if bought in a shop then take it back.

I would recommend a dimmer with 400W rating so you are not running it at its maximum rated capacity. Any standard rotary dimmer or IR controllable dimmer with this capacity will be fine.

Thanks. I just read the details on the dimmer again and it says 300W max not 150W. Plus. I reckon I would get some lower Watt bulbs and replace a few so it's not running at full capacity. God I hope this works, those lights and remote control/infa-red dimmer will be the coolest thing for my room.

[Frank Smith]

Ok, I installed the dimmer but it is making a constant fizzing sound. What could be the problem?