Installing a dimmer switch on existing lighting circuit?

[youngsyr]

Can anyone give me some advice on how to install a dimmer switch on to an existing lighting circuit?

I would like to replace the main light in our lounge with halogen spots (probably all bulbs in one light unit) on a dimmer switch in the original switch location, which is a dual switch for two separate lights.

I would like to retain the normal on/off light for the second light, or have that on a separate dimmer switch.

I'd also like to avoid having a dimmer switch that buzzes.

Is it just a case of replacing the light with the one we like and replacing the switch with a dimmer switch (possible rewiring the second switch onto a separate switch)?

Thanks.

[Raverbaby]

You could use a grid system so you can have a dimmer and a "normal" switch on the same plate.
Bear in mind all metal switches should be earthed.

http://www.screwfix.com/p/varilight-z0gp400s-2-way...

[miniman]

I have a GET grid system controlling 2 groups of halogen spots (on electronic dimmers) and under-counter lights on a regular switch.



The dimmers have a button for on / off (and they fade up and down too) and the dimming controls, and they will also remember the previously set dimming level so you can go from off to dimmed in one press.

[Deva Link]

youngsyr said:

I would like to retain the normal on/off light for the second light, or have that on a separate dimmer switch.

Just get a twin dimmer switch. The box that the existing switch mounts on to might ne be deep enough and may need to be replaced.

[RichB]

Deva Link said:

youngsyr said:

I would like to retain the normal on/off light for the second light, or have that on a separate dimmer...

Yep...

[Deva Link]

^

[RichB]

I was agreeing with you but screwed up the quotes

[youngsyr]

Ok, thanks for the replies.

I'm a real dunce when it comes to electrics, but I'm taking from the above replies that it's quite straight forward and I can just have an electrician stick in a replacement dual dimmer switch and use any light I like with the existing light wiring. Is that correct?

Now, a complication that didn't occur to me yesterday, but which is probably relevant: my lounge is effectively two rooms that have had the dividing wall knocked out, hence the two lights on the ceiling.

As a result, there are actually two dual switches, one on the wall in each room, either of which can be used to turn on/off either light.

Is this a complication or can I simply replace one switch with a dual dimmer switch?

The next question is, can anyone suggest a good dual dimmer switch, I'm particularly concerned about (and am keen to avoid) switches that I've heard buzz whilst on a dimmer setting?

Many thanks for all your help.

[RichB]

Yes, you can have one dimmer and one normal switch on a two-way switched system.

[youngsyr]

Great, thanks.

So, does anyone have any recommendations for the switch?

I've heard ones that buzz before and I'm keen to avoid this.