A light dimmer is a type of electrical equipment that allows for precise control of the intensity of the light emitted by lamp bulbs. The use of a light dimmer is not only used to create the desired atmosphere in the interior, but also to optimize the consumption of electricity and extend the life of light points. In the following guide, we focus on the installation of dimmers. We suggest how to efficiently and safely connect a light dimmer in your home or office.
Check out LED dimmers at the Onninen wholesaler
Briefly about how light dimmers work
Light dimmers available on the market differ in terms of the technology used, purpose and design. All models operate on the principle of regulating the amount of energy supplied to light sources. Classic resistive dimmers cause a change in resistance in the electrical circuit, which regulates the amount of current flowing to the bulb. A more modern solution are electronic dimmers . Based on semiconductor technology, among others, they provide precise and effective lighting control. They are durable and reliable, but more problematic to install. Touch dimmers , operated with a gentle touch, are also popular.
Which light dimmer should I choose?
The light dimmer should be compatible with the type of bulbs and electrical installation and meet the individual preferences and needs of the user. To control dimmable LED lighting, an LED dimmer should be selected, e.g. a universal 230V LED dimmer . Remember that not every LED bulb will work with an LED dimmer. Adjusting the brightness of the bulb requires the use of a converter with the function of regulating alternating and direct voltage at the output. Therefore, before buying an LED bulb, check the packaging to see if it can be used with a light dimmer. This is the basis for smooth and trouble-free control of the intensity of illumination. In electrical stores and wholesalers, you will currently find many universal LED dimmers that work great with various types of energy-saving bulbs. 
When buying a dimmer, it is worth paying attention to various useful additional functions, such as the ability to remotely manage the light intensity from a mobile application on a smartphone. Such functionality is provided by a Wi-Fi dimmer . On the other hand, the safety and comfort of using the staircase are supported by a staircase dimmer with a switch-off warning option. Users are informed about the approaching switch-off of the light.
Installing a light dimmer – where to start?
Light dimmer selected? Then you can start the installation work! It is recommended that a licensed electrician handle the implementation. The first step is to turn off the power in the switchboard. The second, mandatory step is to read the assembly instructions included by the manufacturer of the selected light dimmer. The third step is to prepare the appropriate tools . You will definitely need: an insulated screwdriver, a flat wrench and a spirit level. You probably have them in your toolbox.
Connecting a light dimmer step by step
1) Remove the existing switch cover by gently prying it out with a thin screwdriver.
2) Unscrew the mounting screws and remove the body.
3) Remove the screws holding the electrical cables.
4) Connect the wires to the dimmer and screw them in. There are phase, neutral and protective wires. Standard 230V lighting requires a phase wire (L) and 
Neutral (N). Connect the power supply phase wire to the L terminal on the dimmer. Connect the neutral and protective wires in the box using electrical connectors.
5) Place the dimmer in the box and tighten the mounting screws.
6) Attach the dimmer housing.
7) Tighten the nut on the dimmer with a flat wrench.
8) Using a spirit level, make sure the box is installed straight on the wall and adjust the position if necessary.
9) Tighten the nut with an open-end wrench.
10) Install the dimmer switch.
11) Restore power to the electrical system.
12) Check if the dimmer is working properly - whether you can not only turn the lamp on and off, but also dim and brighten it.
13) If the lighting does not turn on, flickers, does not dim/brighten, turns off by itself or makes a humming noise and you are unable to solve the problem after following the instructions, contact a qualified electrician.
Properly installed equipment allows for flexible regulation of light intensity depending on current needs and mood. On the Internet, you will also find universal video instructions showing how to quickly - step by step - install a dimmer for a light.
We encourage professionals from the electrical industry and individual customers to familiarize themselves with the offer of the Onninen electrical installation wholesaler. Our assortment includes modern rotary, push-button, touch, remote-controlled and other dimmers. In total, we offer several hundred models from leading Polish and foreign manufacturers of residential, office and RTV equipment, such as Kontakt-Simon, Legrand, Ospel or Panasonic. Onninen specialists provide technical and sales support.