Lighting, Light Fixtures, Ceiling and Exhaust Fans - Different type of dimmer for halogin lighting?

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sesjss
04-16-07, 08:33 AM
My Mom has halogin under cabinet lighting. The bulbs don't last very long and I'm wondering if the dimmer switch is the wrong type.

Is there a difference in halogin and incandesent dimmers?

sesjss


pcboss
04-16-07, 02:41 PM
Are these lights line voltage, 120 volt, or low voltage?

If they are low voltage do the instructions call for an electronic or magnetic type dimmer? What type of dimmer is currently installed?

Pilot Dane
04-28-07, 05:52 AM
Generally dimmers on halogen lights are not a good idea. Dimmers shorten the life of the bulbs.

Halogens rely on the high temperatures of running at full power. As the bulb burns parts of the filament oxidise or burn off. When the bulb is used at full power there is so much heat that the oxidation is vaporised (inside the bulb) and re-condenses back onto the filament. Basically the bulb heals itself.

If you still want to use a dimmer. Occasionally turn the lights up to maximum brightness for a while. This will help the bulbs last longer though it is not as good as running them at full power all the time.


Andrew
04-28-07, 08:28 PM
Dane's right. One other consideration is to be sure the halogen tube is operating within 4 degrees of horizontal. This assists the "halogen cycle".

Edit- Never mind...after re-reading the post, I see that they are probably "puck lights" which have the proper lamp position.