Dimming CFL's

[Dragster Racer]

Any good sources for what dimmers to use for cfl's? I have some cans in our new home, and I am trying to work out cfl's, but the dimmable cfls' I bought don't really dim, and the dimmer makes noises when I try. Are there particular brands of dimmers that work better than others? I bought a Leviton with a slider today, and I have a feeling that is part of the trouble.

 

[rockwithjason]

not all dimmers work with all cfl's. try googling the apollo neptune brand. they seem to be the most flexible.

 

[Number22]

I haven't tried any, but from what I've heard the dimmable CFLs just **** in general.

 

[Charles (in GA)]

You need a CFL that specifically states on the packaging that it is dim-able, and a dimmer that also states on the packaging that it is capable of dimming CFL's.

Charles

 

[Dragster Racer]

You need a CFL that specifically states on the packaging that it is dim-able, and a dimmer that also states on the packaging that it is capable of dimming CFL's.

Charles

I think that is the answer. The dimmers that our local stores have don't specifically say cfl compatible. That one that is made by Neptun may have to be what I order. That is who made the dimmable lamps I bought. Sometimes they work so-so. Sometimes they don't work worth a hoot. The switch always hums at anything less than full on.

 

[aandpdan]

I've got two sets, one 4 bulbs and other 3 bulbs on Lutron dimmers. The bulbs are Philips 16w dimmable R30's. No problems and it's been about 6 months.

You really can't dim them that much, especially when they are first turned on but they do what I need.