Dimmer Switches

1. How do I select the right dimmer switch?

   If you need a replacement, take a look at the switch that you already have. Does it mount on or through the floorboard, or on the panel (dashboard)? All floor switches are SPDT On - On (depress - release for low beam, depress - release for high beam). All are made from corrosion-resistant diecast metal with moisture-repellent insulators. Variations are in the location of the mounting holes, and the nature of the terminals (lead, blade, bullet or screw).

2. What is the advantage of using a Electronic Dimmer instead of the Rheostat type?

   Solid state devices dissipate very little power. They are either fully on or fully off. The power dissipation of a Rheostat Dimmer is proportional to the maximum load current, independent of the position of the dimmer. The energy used to overcome the resistance produces heat.

   Electronic dimmers are not load sensitive. Changing the load (for example by adding or removing a light into a circuit) will not produce a noticeable difference in brightness of a light. Electronic dimmers are considerably more efficient. There is less loss in the feed cables and substantially less loss (more than 50 times less) in the dimmer unit itself. It therefore doesn't generate a noticeable amount of heat.

3. Can I use Electronic Dimmers to control the speed of the motor?

   No. Connecting inductive loads to dimmers can damage them.