Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - First post. Help with Chandelier

I replaced my old chandelier that was on a 600 watt dimmer with a new one with 5 40 watt bulbs. The problem is when I hooked it up and turned up the dimmer the bulbs filaments barely glow and I mean barely.

I tried switching the wires. I took it down and wired it to a plug, stuck it in an outlet and it works fine. I put the old chandelier back up and it works fine on the dimmer. I'm stumped. Any suggestions?

Thanks and great web site!

And what total wattage is the old light? It's possible that the dimmer is damaged and can't handle 200 watts.

To be honest I'm not sure. The bulbs are very small and odd shaped but put out alot of light. The only writing on the old chandelier says

Primary: 110V~50Hz-trafo 105W
Secondary: 12V / (5 x 20W)

Thanks for the reply

What you have printed throws up a red flag.

Is this a normal installation? By that I mean is this a normal 120 volt ceiling fixture?

Based on what you see happening and what you have posted from the fixture, I get the feeling that there is a transformer involved which is putting out 12 volts to the light.

You putting 12 volts into a light bulb expecting 120 volts would certainly cause very dim lights.

Use an analog meter and measure the voltage at the ceiling. If I am correct, you will get 12 volts, and not 120 volts. Do not use a digital meter, only use an analog meter.

That makes perfect sense. As far as being a normal installation, it's hard for me to say. The house is fifty years old. The wiring seems straight forward. Anything in particular I should look for (transformer wise) or in the wiring? I haven't checked in the attic as far as wiring. The previous owner made alot of modifications everywhere. I really appreciate the help.

I don't have an analog meter....only digital. I'm gonna run out and get an analog meter. thx

Just wanted to say thanks Racraft

There was indeed a transformer in the attic leading to the chandelier.

She works like a charm now.

kilrbzz