Modern electrical devices provide a number of additional capabilities. Many users have already appreciated dimmers that allow them to smoothly dim the lighting, creating an atmosphere of coziness and comfort in the room.
When choosing such devices, it is important to pay attention to their compatibility with the category of the light source. For example, a dimmer for incandescent lamps is designed specifically for this type of lighting fixture.
In order not to get confused in the store and not to get confused in the variety of offers, you should first find out more information about dimmers, don’t you agree? All the necessary information is collected in our article.
We described the principle of operation, the pros and cons of using dimmers, provided a detailed classification of devices and outlined the rules for connecting them. A review of the best manufacturers and models will help you choose a practical and high-quality dimmer model.
Operating principle of dimmers
Dimmers are convenient devices that allow you to change the level of illumination in a room, reducing the power of the lamps. Such devices can be based on various solutions.
The simplest device is a conventional rheostat, the disadvantage of which is significant heating during use.
To avoid this, ballast household transformers are included in the power supply circuit to compensate for temporary voltage surges.
Even the simplest dimmer can perform important functions (+)
More modern and convenient devices are considered to be light controllers, the design of which is based on semiconductors - triacs, thyristors, dinistors.
Such devices guarantee easy control of the unlocking/closing moments associated with a change in the direction of the current in the circuit.
Thyristor dimmer circuit. The simplest type of dimming device, which you can easily make with your own hands, having basic technical skills (+)
Devices that generate self-oscillations are also made on the basis of transistors: in this case, the main components are high-power field elements.
Read more about the design and operating principle of the dimmer in this article.
Scope of application
The devices are used to regulate heating in residential and industrial premises. Office buildings set a temperature range at night that maintains minimal heating until people arrive in the morning.
In private homes, the functions of the controller depend on the model. There are outlet devices that simply turn the heater on and off, but complex options are installed for complex coordination of all equipment. For example, such thermostats are part of the “Warm House” control system.
Dimmers: advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of dimmers include:
- Comfortable control of lighting brightness. In some cases, this can be done remotely or using an acoustic signal.
- Possibility of using regulators as switches for igniting and extinguishing lamps.
- Reducing the load helps to extend the service life of lighting fixtures.
- Modern models often have a programming function, which allows you to simulate the presence of the owner in case of departure.
The assortment of specialized stores offers a wide range of devices that differ in their design, design, cost, and set of various options.
An extremely convenient device is a remote dimmer, which allows you to turn on and off the light, as well as change its brightness from a distance using a remote control.
At the same time, these devices have a number of certain disadvantages. First of all, they are sensitive to overheating, so it is recommended to install them in rooms with a temperature no higher than +25°C.
When using dimmers, a minimum load level of 40 W must be observed. If this indicator is often violated, the regulatory mechanism will fail prematurely.
The supplied pulses may cause radio interference. To compensate for this not very pleasant effect, coils with capacitors (LG filters) are sometimes introduced into the circuit.
If powerful lamps with long filaments are included in the circuit, you should be careful about applying the minimum voltage to them, since the devices may begin to “sing”.
It is strictly forbidden to connect televisions, computers, tablets, or radios to the power circuit. Connecting electronic ballasts (electronic ballasts) and fluorescent lamps is not allowed.
According to expert calculations, a 50% reduction in the power of an incandescent lamp using modern dimmers can save 15% of electrical energy
A controversial issue is energy savings when regulating the operation of incandescent lamps.
Research by scientists has shown that the use of modern types of dimmers contributes to some reduction in power consumption, but this figure can hardly be called impressive.
Noirot Royat 2 1200
The infrared quartz heater Noirot Royat 2 1200 is a universal wall-mounted option. Programmed with three operating modes, it is ideal for installation in any room.
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The possibility of greater coverage of the heating area is achieved by rotating the surface of the heating device at an angle of up to 30 degrees. The control panel, for ease of use, can be mounted on both the left and right sides of the heater.
Specifications:
- the heating element is made of quartz;
- the device operates at different powers of 0.3,0.6,1.2 kW;
- device dimensions 0.45x0.12x0.11 m;
- presence of a safety device and thermostat;
- low noise when the heater is operating.
Unlike the previous two models, this heater has a higher cost, around 9,700 rubles.
The question of how to choose a thermostat for an infrared heater can turn into a difficult task. In addition to its main function - heating the room, the potential buyer is interested in the cost-effectiveness and safety of the device.
Types of regulators for incandescent lamps
There are several options for classifying devices for controlling the brightness of light bulbs.
According to the principle of operation of regulators
All models can be divided into two large categories:
- mechanical;
- electronic.
Mechanical . These include simple low-cost devices that operate on the principle of a rheostat. They are equipped with a knob, by turning which you can increase or decrease the voltage, which causes a change in the intensity of the light flux.
Mechanical devices produced by different manufacturers have the same design. However, they may vary in quality due to the specifications of the parts used and the care taken to assemble them.
Special components can also be added to the mechanisms of individual models to facilitate smooth control of the process and/or ensure stable operation of the dimmer with a minimum supply of electric current.
Electronic . Regulators are quite complex devices, which are controlled using conventional or touch buttons.
An integral part of such devices is a microcontroller, which significantly expands their capabilities compared to their mechanical counterparts.
Models of dimmers usually provide protection against overheating, which turns off the device when a certain temperature is reached, as well as against short circuit
Here are just a few additional functions that such devices can be equipped with:
- installation of several control panels located in different areas of the room;
- the ability to regulate the operation of regulators at a distance;
- use of standard and custom modes of light sources;
- connecting a dimmer to a light sensor, thereby achieving automatic adjustment of the intensity of artificial lighting depending on the degree of natural light.
Electronic devices are extremely easy to use; their only disadvantage is their high cost.
By type of device design
Depending on the design features, three main types of dimmers can be distinguished:
- Modular , the appearance of which resembles circuit breakers. Such devices, compatible with incandescent lamps, are usually installed in distribution cabinets. They are adjusted using a button or a key.
- Built-in , installed in special boxes, the installation of which is provided for at the stage of electrical installation work. They are compatible with various types of lighting fixtures.
- Monoblock , operating similarly to conventional switches. The devices require a two-wire connection, which makes it possible to break the phase wire circuit, causing a load.
To control lighting in residential premises, the latter option is most often used.
According to the installation method of electrical appliances
Depending on the installation option, there are two types of dimmers: internal and external.
Internal installation . This option is used when laying hidden wiring. In this case, the devices are mounted in special boxes, which are specially placed in wall niches.
Manufacturers pay special attention to the development of models of surface-mounted dimmers. Devices often have an original design and exquisite colors
Outdoor placement . In electrical circuits, surface-mounted dimmers are installed on the surface of the walls.
Thanks to their attractive appearance, they not only have practical significance, but also perform a decorative function, placing accents in the interior.
By way of lighting control
When choosing a model, you need to consider how the switch is turned on/off/adjusted.
Based on this criterion, the following options can be distinguished:
- Rotary-push controls are regulators with a button, pressing which allows you to turn the light on/off, and rotation allows you to control its intensity.
- Rotary - when turned on, the lamp lights up with a minimum degree of brightness, which increases by rotating the button.
- Keyboards - the lighting is adjusted by holding down a key.
- Touch - a modern option that allows you to control the lighting by touching the sensitive plate of the screen.
- Remote - control of operation is carried out at a distance using remote controls, but is often duplicated in the traditional way.
There are also models that use the acoustic principle. In this case, you can turn on or turn off the lighting device with a voice command or clap.
Connecting thermostats to infrared electric heaters
Efficient operation is ensured by correct installation. First, you need to think about where the equipment will be located. The device should not be located in an area of high humidity or near heat sources. If these rules are not followed, the temperature measurement may not be accurate, which will lead to improper operation of the heating device.
The next important question is how to connect the thermostat to the power source and to the heater itself. An automatic shutdown relay is used to close the circuit. Here are the most common connection diagrams.
The first way to connect a thermostat to an infrared heater is to use one thermostat per heater. This option is the simplest method of connecting a thermostat with your own hands.
The phase and neutral wires coming out of the thermostat should be connected in a certain sequence to a pair of wires of the heater.
The second method involves parallel connection of two heating devices to one thermostat. First, the first electric heater is connected in series, from which wiring is made to connect the second device. There is an option to use more than two electric heaters with one thermostat.
Despite the complexity of the connection, this scheme is the most practical. Here, the operating principle of the device is based on the use of an electromagnetic starter for the safe use of an electrical appliance.
Some manufacturers can offer you a ready-made circuit, having their own magnetic starters for sale. Therefore, if you have little understanding of electrical engineering, it is better to first carefully read the connection instructions, or trust the work of professionals.
Cost and types of infrared heaters with a temperature controller using the example of three popular samples. Wall- and ceiling-type infrared thermostat models are the most popular in their product segment. Their main distinguishing quality is their compact dimensions.
In addition, potential customers are attracted by the original design of the product and the ability to select a thermostat to match the design of the room. Let's consider several options.
Standard connection option
Connecting the dimmer to the lighting system is quite easy; you just have to take into account that, depending on the modification, the device may have two or four terminals.
When connecting a device to a circuit, safety regulations must be followed. All manipulations should be carried out with the electricity turned off, using tools with proper insulation.
The design of monoblock models provides two terminals through which the broken phase of the lighting circuit must be connected. As a rule, such devices are installed instead of switches in an existing socket.
Instructions for connecting the dimmer
The process consists of the following steps:
- First of all, you need to unscrew the bolts and remove the switch, disconnecting it from the electrical wiring.
- Then carefully examine the markings of the terminals, where the arrows indicate the incoming and outgoing phases. To clarify, you can check it with a tester.
- Observing the polarity, the wires remaining in the socket are connected to the dimmer terminals.
- After this, the dimmer is inserted into the box and secured with screws or another method.
- At the end of the process, electric current is again supplied to the circuit to check the correct operation of the connected equipment.
When connecting a dimmer with four terminals, two of them are attached to the open phase of the lighting circuit, and the control button is attached to the other two.
Specifications
Technical performance indicators of the Terneo heater
Operating parameters depend on the design version, filling and control circuit. Some thermostats for quartz heaters or oil heaters are connected to 2–3 remote sensors. The built-in GSM modem carries out voice notification and electronic mailing about the state of the microclimate to specified telephone numbers indicating operating parameters.
Capabilities of modern thermostats:
- connection to eight telephone numbers and regulation of 4 alarm zones in the home;
- coordination of parameters and setting tasks via mobile communication or voice message;
- sending an SMS message when there is a power outage or low battery;
- models can withstand power of 2 - 3.5 kW.
When connecting, the current consumption of the heaters is summed up; this value should be less than the maximum value for the thermostat.
Tips for choosing dimmers
When selecting a regulator for incandescent lamps, it is important to take into account all the features listed above. In addition, experts recommend paying attention to a number of additional nuances.
If you plan to place the device in a room whose temperature exceeds +25 °C, it is better to use a model equipped with built-in ventilation or a fuse.
Light control using a dimmer is done using the “phase cutoff” method. In this case, part of the sinusoid is cut off, which leads to a decrease in the voltage supplied to the lighting
Dimmers are designed for a certain power of lighting fixtures, which cannot be exceeded. If the control device is planned to be connected to a chandelier or group of lamps, the total indicator must be taken into account.
The cost of products varies widely. The most budget options are keyboard and rotary models, but electronic ones provide more options. If you wish, you can assemble a simple dimmer model with your own hands.
Since the operation of electrical equipment is directly related to home safety, it is better to give preference to products from reputable brands whose products are highly rated in user reviews.
Types and characteristics of thermostats
A thermostat is a device that allows you to record the temperature in a room at a certain time interval and at the same time adjust the device settings to the required values. For example, when the temperature reaches a certain figure, the heating forcibly ends the operation cycle. And, conversely, with its decrease, the device resumes its operation.
The design characteristics and operating principle of thermostats may be different. There are two main types of thermostats for heaters:
- mechanical;
- electronic.
Mechanical type products consist of a plastic box with a switch installed on the outside. It comes in a round type and can be easily adjusted to different positions. The graduation scale may vary. On some devices, the scale step is 1 degree, but there are also devices with divisions of 2.5.
The thermostat's power button is located on the outside of the body, and next to it there is a light indicator that provides information about the activity of the device. New mechanical versions of temperature controllers are equipped with a display with easy operation using two buttons.
In this regard, electronic devices have a wider range of possibilities for use. As can be seen in the photographs of thermostats of this type, thanks to the liquid crystal screen, adjustment is carried out by touch. To preserve the integrity of the display, protective covers are used.
Electronic temperature controllers, despite their high cost, are easy to program and can easily fit into any type of room.
The best dimmer manufacturers
Let's name several well-known brands of electrical products, in whose catalogs a significant place is devoted to small products, including various types of dimmers.
Legrand . A large French company, considered a leader in the global specialized market.
Numerous enterprises located in 80 countries produce more than 215 thousand types of products, including various modifications of dimmers.
Legrand dimmers are distinguished by reliable, safe operation and a long service life. The model range is quite wide: in the catalogs you can find both traditional and original options.
Dimmers from the Celiane series are characterized by high performance and elegant design. The manufacturer also offers interchangeable frames of various colors to decorate the devices.
The advantages include a flexible pricing policy. The company offers both exclusive expensive devices and devices at a budget price.
Simon _ Spanish holding with headquarters in Barcelona. The company specializes in the production of electrical installation equipment of different price categories. The assortment includes luxury product lines and budget class models.
Simon products are practical, functional, and have an original appearance. In the catalogs you can find various modifications of dimmers, including touch and rotary, as well as spectacular backlit solutions.
Dernek GROUP . A large manufacturer that produces all kinds of electrical products under the Lezard brand, its goal is to produce affordable, high-quality products.
Dernek focuses primarily on mass demand, offering products with simple designs at affordable prices.
Products included in the Mira (Lezard) line are offered in a variety of colors. Available options include an eye-catching metallic gold shade.
At the same time, Lezard electrical appliances demonstrate good performance. In their manufacture, high-quality plastic and stainless steel are used, and the well-thought-out mechanism of the device is equipped with a safety lock.
Berker . German family company founded in 1919. All products manufactured under this brand are manufactured at a large enterprise located in Germany in Schalksmühle.
The brand mainly produces products in traditional designs at affordable prices. Berker dimmers are characterized by impeccable quality mechanisms, ease of use, and neat appearance.
Schneider Electric . Founded back in the 19th century, the French company offers a wide range of electrical accessories that are highly valued by professionals.
Branded products include push-button and rotary controls, as well as universal models suitable for different types of lamps.
The products are characterized by original design, as well as exclusive quality, guaranteeing reliable operation and long service life of the products.
High-quality products are distinguished by reliability and durability, using modules and replaceable frames. The only disadvantages include the relatively high cost.
ABB . A Swedish-Swiss company that occupies a leading position in the production of high-tech electrical equipment.
In the production of products, impact-resistant and UV-resistant materials are used, which gives the products increased strength and extends their service life.
The design of the dimmers is characterized by elegance and expressive colors; Even basic collections use spectacular fluorescent marks.
The advantages also include ease of installation, comfort in use, and the possibility of modular solutions.
Makel . A Turkish manufacturer that has been producing electrical products for almost four decades.
Product lines are manufactured on German equipment with careful control of all processes. The catalog presents various types of products, which are exported to 40 countries.
Makel's affordable products are available in a large assortment, making it easy to choose an attractive dimmer model or other electrical accessories
Available Makel products are characterized by good performance, practicality and functionality.
To facilitate installation, conductors painted in different colors are used, as well as durable mounting clips that guarantee stable contacts.
Advantages
The main advantage of thermostatic devices is their high efficiency. It is enough to configure the operating parameters in advance and you can be calm - the equipment will begin to monitor the heating and maintain it at the specified level.
The second important point is versatility. The device is used in industrial workshops, apartments, offices, and municipal institutions. It is impossible not to note the ease of installation. Even those who have no knowledge of electrical engineering can cope with the task. All you have to do is connect the device to an outlet.
The best models for incandescent lamps
Let's give a few examples of popular devices in different price categories, making up a kind of top four.
Universal dimmer DELTA from Siemens
The series includes both push-button and key-based dimmers. Easy to install and operate, the device can be used even with significant loads applied to the lamps.
The DELTA dimmer from the largest German manufacturer has a classic design and excellent quality. The device is made of high-quality plastic that is resistant to mechanical damage
The devices are suitable for various types of light sources, including incandescent lamps. Some modifications included in the line have additional functions.
These include, for example, the ability to remember the light level set the previous time it was turned on, or the ability to adjust the flow of light from different places in the room.
Celiane dimmer from Legrand
The Celiane series from the famous French manufacturer combines dimmer models compatible with various lamps, including incandescent devices. The line includes products designed for total power from 300 to 600 watts.
The models are made in four exquisite shades: white, ivory, titanium and graphite. In addition to the usual ones, waterproof modifications with a high degree of protection are also presented.
Of interest is the intelligent version of the device, thanks to which a smooth decrease in lamp power is available over an hour or stepwise adjustment of light intensity.
Rotary push dimmer from ABB
Dimmers 651500842 with a rotary-push mechanism are suitable for use with incandescent lamps with a power of 60-400 W.
Devices in this series, made in original colors, are made of especially durable plastic and metal alloys that are resistant to corrosion and deformation.
The kit for the ABB 651500842 dimmer also includes a pad and a support used when installing the product on vertical surfaces
The device connection diagram allows you to connect a switch to it. This makes it possible to turn on and off the lights from two different locations, but control access is only provided from the main device.
To turn on the lamp, you need to press the knob, turning which you can increase or decrease the brightness of the lighting.
When you turn off the device, it will remember the last position of the button, so the next time you turn it on, the brightness of the light will be set automatically.
Lezard Mira dimmer
The mechanical device is designed for a load not exceeding 800 watts. The adjustment is carried out by rotating the round knob: this allows you to change the resistance, which leads to an increase or decrease in the brightness of the lamp.
The device is housed in a housing that is standard for this type of electrical fittings. Its design allows you to easily connect the dimmer to already installed lighting circuits.
The advantages of the model include ease of use, long service life, and budget price.
Editor's Choice
"Teplolux" BiZone
The device controls heated floors, convectors, fan coils, and heat curtains based on data from two remote floor temperature sensors in two control zones and one air temperature sensor in the device body. Sensor type TST02-2.0 or third-party sensors with resistance 10 kOhm, 12 kOhm, 15 kOhm, 33 kOhm, 47 kOhm.
"Teplolux" BiZone. Photo: Teplolux
Key features of the BiZone thermostat:
- Setting a schedule for turning on and off;
- Timer operation;
- Creating scenarios for a smart home in the Tuya Smart application;
- Control of rotation speed of fans of fan coils, thermal curtains and convectors;
- Information about energy consumption is provided in graphical form.
Thermostat operating modes are indicated by colored LEDs. To connect the device to a cloud service or smart home system, you need to scan the QR code in the device passport or on the manufacturer’s official website with your smartphone.
Specifications
| Operating temperature range | from 5°С to 45°С |
| Supply voltage | 230 V |
| Maximum power | 3.6 kW x 2 |
| Maximum control circuit current with active load | 5 A |
| Maximum control current with inductive load | IP44 |
Advantages and disadvantages
Compatible with a large number of controlled climate control devices
Not detected
Editor's Choice
Teplolux BiZone
Dual zone thermostat
Independent control of two zones remotely via WiFi via the TUYA application, integration into the smart home system and IP44 moisture protection class.
OrderDelivery terms
Conclusions and useful video on the topic
The presented video describes in detail three modifications of dimmers from the famous French company Schneider Electric, and also describes how to connect them:
Dimmers designed to work with incandescent lamps are convenient devices that increase comfort and quality of life. There is a wide range of products on sale, which may differ in technical solutions, the presence of various functions, and a variety of designs.
Dimmers of different types are extremely easy to install, allowing you to install them yourself. It is only important to strictly follow safety rules and carefully perform all manipulations.
Do you have experience choosing or using a dimmer for incandescent lamps? Or want to ask questions on the topic? Please comment on the post and participate in discussions. The feedback block is located below.
Appearance
In the photo, the thermostat for the heater is a compact adapter with a plug. On the front side of the case there is an LCD display, a socket for connecting an electric heater and a control panel consisting of on/off buttons and temperature background adjustment.
Inside there is a microprocessor with sensors, relays or a metal plate. We'll tell you why they are needed further.Installation method
According to the type of installation, all controllers are divided into stationary and portable. The first ones involve being built into the wall and connected to electrical wiring. These are overhead or mortise products that are almost invisible in the overall picture of the interior. The setting range ranges from +5 degrees to +30 degrees.
Portable thermostats are suitable for those who do not want to bother with wiring. The devices are also called socket devices; they can be connected to any connector. They have gained popularity due to ease of installation and mobility.
Depending on the location of the sensor-analyzer, there are remote and built-in varieties. Remote sensors are located at the end of a cord 0.2-3 m long.
