Dimmer Switches

Finding the right dimmer switch is quick and easy at Downlights Direct. For most LED lighting, we recommend the Varilight V-Pro series: LED compatible, capable of dimming up to 120W of LEDs, and designed to work with low loads.

LED Compatible Dimmer Switches

Choosing an LED compatible dimmer switch used to be difficult and a bit of a lottery. That’s because LEDs behave differently from one product to the next, and the wattage is far lower than traditional incandescent lighting. Varilight addressed these challenges with their V-Pro series of LED compatible dimmer switches.

The Varilight V-Pro is designed for low loads and can dim up to 120W of LEDs without needing to be de-rated for LED. As a rule of thumb, keep within the manufacturer guidance for the number of LED lamps on the circuit (often around 10, depending on the lamp type).

If you do have a higher number of LEDs, we also stock higher capacity options such as the V-Pro high wattage dimmers (up to 300W) and the Varilight V-COM series (up to 600W). These higher wattage dimmers can also be useful for dimming longer runs of LED tape (where compatible).

The Varilight V-Pro is programmable, which allows you to fine tune the dimming behaviour to suit the exact LEDs on your circuit. If you’re experiencing nuisance flickering at the low end, you can often trim it out. Programming is done using the rotary knob and is intended to be straightforward when following the product instructions.

Over the years, Downlights Direct has worked closely with lighting and dimmer switch manufacturers to provide expert advice and pre-sales support. Our guidance is based on testing, research and customer feedback, helping you avoid compatibility issues and achieve smooth LED dimming.

Trailing Edge Dimmer Switches

Trailing edge dimmers are commonly used with LEDs because they can provide smoother dimming at lower loads. With the Varilight V-Pro range, you can select a trailing edge mode or a modified leading edge mode, and these modes can be adjusted if needed. On initial start-up, the V-Pro is designed to adapt to the LEDs on the circuit, with further programming only required for fine tuning in some cases.

If you change the lamps or wattage on the circuit, you can also reprogram the dimmer to suit the new load.

Trailing edge dimming is often quieter in operation and can help reduce buzzing on compatible setups. Leading edge dimmers can sometimes produce audible buzz depending on the load and hardware. If you’re dimming a small number of LED lamps or downlights, don’t get too caught up in the technicalities: a quality LED compatible dimmer is usually the most important step.

By choosing a Varilight V-Pro, you’re selecting a popular option used widely for LED dimming. Many dimmable LED lamps and integrated fittings are tested for compatibility with well-known dimmer ranges like this, but it’s still worth checking product guidance for the best results.

Smart Switches

If you’re looking for smartphone controlled or voice activated lighting, the Lightwave Smart Series is a popular choice. Their app allows you to dim, switch, set scenes and timer functions, and you can combine actions for multiple lights at the touch of one button.

Analogue Dimming 0-10V

Although used less frequently now due to the availability of mains-dimmable LED drivers, 0-10V dimming is still commonly used with some control gear. We offer 0-10V dimmers in plate switch and grid switch formats.

Grid Switch Dimmers

A grid switch system is made up of mounting and switching components which allow you to combine different switch types on the same plate. This can be useful when you want a dimmer and an on/off switch together in one faceplate.

However, mixed modules aren’t always the best-looking option and can work out expensive. Another approach is to use a 2 gang dimmer plate and replace one module with a “dummy dimmer module”. This looks like a dimmer but functions as a standard on/off switch. It can be useful in scenarios such as bathrooms, where one switch dims the lights and the other controls an extractor fan (where appropriate).