Learn Why a Hot Dimmer Switch Can Be Such a Big Problem for a Homeowner

When your dimmer switch is in use, it is fairly normal for it to be warm to the touch. However, it should never be hot. If it is, then you should take steps right away. Keep reading to learn why this is such an issue and then call your local residential electric company for assistance: Sonner Electric at 661-728-0126.

When to Contact an Electrician About Your Dimmer Switch

According to the safety organization Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a dimmer switch can safely operate up to 195F. On average, dimmer switches operate at around 140F. If you believe that your dimmer switch is higher than the safe 195F level, then you should contact an electrician to find out what the issue is.

The Dimmer Switch Might Be Overloaded

One potential reason that the dimmer switch might hot is that it is overloaded. They can handle around 1500 watts of electricity. That is about 15 100-watt bulbs. If you have more than that in your dimmer switch, then it might be hooked up to more than it can handle.

This is an Issue That Could Pose a Fire Risk and Worse

A hot dimmer switch is not something that can just be ignored. It can pose a fire risk, and it can break down due to the heat. The heat is also potentially going to cause the coating on the wires to crack. This gets rid of their insulation ability, which can lead to dangerous issues like arc faults and short circuits.

We Can Figure Out the Maximum Load for Your Dimmer Switch

When you are looking to see the wattage rating for a light fixture, it will generally be printed on a sticker located on the light fixture. When it comes to dimmer switches, their wattage rating is generally stamped onto their mounting bracket. In order to determine if your dimmer switch has more wattage than it is rated for, we will:

• Find all the light fixtures the dimmer switch is controlling
• Add the wattage rating of all those light fixtures together
• Compare the total to the limit of the dimmer switch

If the total fixture wattage is more than the dimmer is rated for, then that is very likely the reason the dimmer switch is getting hot.

We Can Find the Best Solution

Depending on the specifics of your situation, the best solution might be to move some lighting fixtures to another switch or to add the wattage to your current switch. After we assess the situation, we can present you with options so you can make the most informed decision. Contact Sonner Electric at 661-728-0126 now to set up an appointment.