IR Switches/Dimmers

[William YZF-R1]

Excuse my ignorance, I have two independant lighting circuits in the lounge. One controls 6 12V 50W downlighters and the second 4 12V 50W downlighters.

There is a double switch at either end of the room for On/Off.

Are 12v downlighters with transformer(s) hidden in the ceiling suitable for dimming?

If yes, presumably my lights use two way wiring/switches so would I need a double master & a double slave unit.

[stevelup]

Hi

Make sure the transformers are a good match for the dimmers.

For example, if you are using the popular Varilight IQ dimmers, then you really should use the Varilight transformers.

Assuming we are talking about Varilight, you can't use a two gang dimmer as they are rated at 250W maximum.

You will need to knock another hole and fit two single gang ones. I'd recommend the 600W one for your first channel and the 400W one for your second channel.

You can still use a two gang slave at the other end though.

Incidentally, assuming your two switch locations are linked with two pieces of three core + earth cable, you can fit the masters and the slave at either location. That's handy for making sure the IR receiver is where you want it!

Steve

[William YZF-R1]

Steve,

Thanks for the reply, its a new house so god knows what transformers they are, so I think dimmers are out.

I went down to B&Q just now and saw those Varilight transformers and switches.

[stevelup]

Just change the transformers. They only cost a fiver.

By the way, don't buy the Varilight stuff from B&Q unless you fancy paying double for it.

Get it from TLC instead.

Steve

[stevelup]

Why not buy one Varilight dimmer and see if it works properly with your transformers.

If its all OK, you can grab the other bits, if it's not, use the dimmer somewhere else, return it or bite the bullet and change the transformers.

[William YZF-R1]

Originally Posted by stevelup

Why not buy one Varilight dimmer and see if it works properly with your transformers.

If its all OK, you can grab the other bits, if it's not, use the dimmer somewhere else, return it or bite the bullet and change the transformers.

TBH I don't even know where the transformers are, whether its one for each light etc etc, if it is how to get the lights out of the ceiling.

Its unusual for me but I think I will err on the side of caution & leave well alone.

If I am honest it seemed a good idea and another way to use my Harmony (hence the request for IR dimmers/switches), but in reality I only turn one set on briefly when I come in. As soon as I sit down I put a floorstanding uplighter on & turn the celing lights off.

Double IR switches (non dimming) might be less hassle but I can't find any that don't dim.

So thanks for all the great advice.