Reddit mentions: The best plug-in dimmers
We found 62 Reddit comments discussing the best plug-in dimmers. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 20 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. Leviton TBL03-10E Tabletop Slide Control Lamp Dimmer, 300-Watt, Black
- Full range slide control dimmer
- Compatible with incandescent, halogen, dimmable LED and dimmable CFL bulbs
- No installation required
- 6 foot cord makes it easy to reach any outlet
- AC UL listed. Frequency-60 hertz
- Note: "Application guide" under the technical specifications shows our official bulb compatibility list. The customer can use this to find a bulb that will work with this device.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Image |
Height | 7.125 Inches |
Length | 8.25 Inches |
Weight | 0.4 Pounds |
Width | 4.25 Inches |
Size | 1 Pack |
Number of items | 1 |
2. GE Zigbee Smart Switch In-Wall Lighting Control, Neutral Wire Required, Works Directly with Alexa Plus, Echo Show (2nd Gen), White & Light Almond, 45856GE
- ALEXA COMPATIBLE – The smart switch connects to Echo Plus and Echo Show (2nd gen) without a separate hub for voice control with Alexa. It is also compatible with all other Alexa devices through a certified hub.
- SUPPORTED HUBS – Works with hubs from SmartThings, Wink, PEQ and Logitech Harmony Home Hub Extender as well as home systems by your favorite cable companies, including Cox, Rogers, Comcast Xfinity and Comporium. It is not compatible with Philips Hue (Zigbee Light Link – ZLL).
- NEUTRAL WIRE REQUIRED – Features space-saving screw terminal and uses existing wiring to upgrade any single-pole or multi-switch installation equipped with a neutral wire. Max load supports 900W incandescent, 1/2HP motor and 1, 440W (12A) resistive.
- REMOTE OPERATION – Mobile devices wirelessly schedule and control the ON/OFF function of permanently installed LED, CFL, incandescent and halogen lighting. Energy reporting provides valuable information and automations to reduce electrical costs. The wireless range is up to 150feet. from the controller or closest Zigbee device.
- INTERCHANGEABLE PADDLES – Includes white and light almond rocker-style paddles to match existing décor (black, brown and ivory sold separately) and features an LED indicator to show switch location. Wall plate is not included.
Features:
Specs:
Color | White & Light Almond |
Height | 4.1 Inches |
Length | 1.75 Inches |
Weight | 0.45 Pounds |
Width | 2.2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
3. GE Zigbee Smart Dimmer In-Wall Lighting Control, Neutral Wire Required, Works Directly with Alexa Plus, Echo Show (2nd Gen), White & Light Almond, 45857GE
ALEXA COMPATIBLE – The smart dimmer connects to Echo Plus and Echo Show (2nd gen) without a separate hub for voice control with Alexa. It is also compatible with all other Alexa devices through a certified hub.SUPPORTED HUBS – Works with hubs from SmartThings, Wink, PEQ and Logitech Harmony Home...
Specs:
Color | White & Light Almond |
Height | 4.1 Inches |
Length | 1.75 Inches |
Weight | 0.56 Pounds |
Width | 2.2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
4. GoControl Z-Wave Plug-in Dimmer Module - PD300Z-2
- Plug-In appliance/lighting module with Z-Wave Technology
- Easy to use with no wiring required. Just plug it in and it works with any certified z-wave gateway.
- Go Control Z-Wave lighting devices can be voice-controlled using the Amazon Echo and Wink smart hub
- Nortek security & control has been providing best-in-class home & business control solutions for over 50-years and is a leading worldwide mfg. of z-wave products
- Control the smart appliance switch from anywhere by Wi-Fi or with internet-connected smart phone or tablet via the hub/controller app.
- Operating frequency : 60 Hz
- Uses Z-Wave's Scene Command Class
- Easy to use with no wiring required. Just plug it in and it works with any certified Z-Wave gateway
- Requires a Neutral wire
- Linear has been providing best-in-class home & business control solutions for over 50-years and is a leading worldwide mfgr. of Z-Wave products
- Includes one controlled and one 'pass-thru' outlet
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 4 Inches |
Length | 2.38 Inches |
Weight | 0.4 pounds |
Width | 2.25 Inches |
Size | Small |
Number of items | 1 |
5. ESUMIC® Dimmer for LED Strips lights LED Ribbon With DC plug Jack (PWM Black)
- Universal single color LED dimmer can dim any 12VDC LED products
- from 0 to 100 percent using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) circuit.
Features:
Specs:
Size | Small |
6. TronicsPros DC 12V-24V 6A LED Strip Dimmer Switch PWM Dimmer Controller DC Jack Adapter Connector for RGB and Monochrome SMD 5050 3528 2835 5630 LED Strip LED Tape LED Ribbon LED Rope LED String Light
Functions - To djust the brightness of SMD 5050/3528/2835/5630 LED strips, as well as other DC 12V LED devices. For example, it works for ALED LIGHT LED strips, for HitLights LED strips, for LEDJUMP LED strips, for LEDMO LED strips, for Lighting EVER LED strips, for Triangle Bulbs LED strips, for We...
Specs:
Color | Black(1pcs) |
7. GE Zigbee Smart Dimmer Plug-In, 2-Outlet Lighting Control, No Wiring Required, Works Directly with Alexa Plus, Echo Show (2nd Gen), White, 45852GE
- ALEXA COMPATIBLE – The smart dimmer connects to Echo Plus and Echo Show (2nd gen) without a separate hub for voice control with Alexa. It is also compatible with all other Alexa devices through a certified hub.
- SUPPORTED HUBS – Works with hubs from SmartThings, Wink, PEQ and Logitech Harmony Home Hub Extender as well as home systems by your favorite cable companies, including Cox, Rogers, Comcast Xfinity and Comporium. It is not compatible with Philips Hue (Zigbee Light Link – ZLL).
- DUAL OUTLET – Features 1 Zigbee-controlled, polarized outlet for wireless dimming and 1 always-on, grounded outlet to provide continuous power. Max load supports 300W incandescent, 100W dimmable LED/CFL and 1, 800W (15A) resistive.
- REMOTE OPERATION – Mobile devices wirelessly schedule and control the ON/OFF and brightness functions of indoor plug-in dimmable LED, CFL, incandescent and halogen lighting. Energy reporting provides valuable information and automations to reduce electrical costs. The wireless range is up to 150feet. from the controller or closest Zigbee device.
- SPACE-SAVING DESIGN – The side-access outlets and discreet design fit easily behind furniture or in other tight, indoor spaces. Its compact construction allows the dimmer to plug into the top outlet of a duplex receptacle without blocking the lower outlet.
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 2.3 Inches |
Length | 1.4 Inches |
Width | 3.95 Inches |
Size | 1 Pack |
Number of items | 1 |
8. Leviton SGVST-W, 1 pack, White
Decora slide control with precision 12-positon switch(including full OFF position)Transformer-Free attenuation technology ensures linear frequency response, signal integrity and high power handling abilityCermetile resistors replace conventional auto formers to preserve audio signal purityDetachable...
Specs:
Color | Image |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 6 Inches |
Weight | 0.2 Pounds |
Width | 4 Inches |
Size | 1 Pack |
Number of items | 1 |
9. Insteon Smart In-Line Dimmer Switch, In-LineLinc, 2475DA1 - Insteon Hub required for voice control with Alexa & Google Assistant
Remotely control hardwired incandescent lights without running wires for a wall switchFits inside a standard electrical boxControls up to 400 Watts at 100-277VAC and 50/60HzFeaturing Dual-Band Insteon technology for the fastest and most reliable performanceWorks with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant ...
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 4 Inches |
Weight | 0.3 Pounds |
Width | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
10. Outdoor Dimmer, Wireless RF Smart Plug-in Outdoor Dimmer Switch, Remote Control Dimming Controller - 200W Max Power/150FT Max Range/IP68 Waterproof/Stepless Dimming for Dimmable LED String Lights
『RF Wireless Dimmer 150FT 』The plug in dimmer offers hassle-free outdoor control, RF wireless can pass through even with wall, LED dimming controller let you conveniently adjust your outdoor string lights without having you step out of the house.『Scientific Design IP68 Waterproof 』Profession...
Specs:
Color | 200 Watt Outdoor Dimmer for String Lights |
Weight | 0.36 Kilograms |
11. Home Dimmer Module
- To utilize the great features of remote access and control your Nexia Home Intelligence system provides, a monthly subscription of $9.99 required. Video and user manual is attached on detail for the reference.
- Reduce energy use and save money by turning lights and small appliances off
- Set Nexia to automatically trigger ''lights on'' with a Schlage Home Keypad Lock when you enter your code at the door
- Expands the reach of Nexia in your home by extending its range up to 200 additional feet
- This Z-Wave enabled product communicates wirelessly to other Z-Wave products
- Works with incandescent table and floor lamps, use the Schlage Home Appliance Module for lamps with CFL bulbs
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 2.5 Inches |
Length | 1.75 Inches |
Weight | 0.75 Pounds |
Width | 3.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
12. Ulincos Touch Switch UT19W1 Momentary Switch DC 6V to 24V Blue LED Suitable for 19mm 3/4" Mounting Hole
- Touch switch, just touch it!
- Momentary Switch Type: Touch and hold it to turn the device ON; Release to turn it OFF
- Blue LED ring always light ON, make you quickly find the switch at night or in the dark
- The wires replace the terminal pins, make installing very easy
- Touch Switch, normally be used to control the lights. Don't exceed the rating amps and volts, you can run it on your other projects
Features:
Specs:
Color | Momentary |
Height | 0.86614 Inches |
Length | 7.0866 Inches |
Weight | 35 Grams |
Width | 0.86614 Inches |
Size | 19mm |
13. DEWENWILS Table Lamp Dimmer Switch Dimmable LED/CFL Lights,Incandescent and Halogen Bulbs, Full Range Slide Control, 6.6 ft Extension Cord, UL Listed, White
- LED Compatible Dimmer - Inline light dimmer switch works with up to 100 watt dimmable LED / CFL bulbs or 300 watt Incandescent; 110 - 120Vac Input Voltage; 6.6 ft extension cord
- Full Range Stepless Dimming - Smooth slider switch slides up to brighten, down to dim gradually through a full range of stepless dimming; slides into the off position to turn the power off completely
- Create the Perfect Ambiance - Adjust bedside lamps, table lamps, night lights, decorative lighting to desired level of your preferred brightness; easy to control mood lighting for bedroom, nursery room, holidays, and so on
- Energy Efficiency - Dim the lights to save energy and extend bulb life for your expensive lamps; protect your eyes from overly bright lights; save money and make your home more comfortable
- No Wiring Necessary - Quick to install with tool-free set-up; no need to install an in-wall dimming device; simply plug in and use; RoHS compliant material (safety, health and environmental protection); UL certified
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 12.19 Inches |
Length | 6.6 Inches |
Width | 8.13 Inches |
Size | M |
Number of items | 1 |
14. GE Zigbee Smart Switch Plug-In, 2-Outlet Lighting Control, No Wiring Required, Works Directly with Alexa Plus, Echo Show (2nd Gen), White, 45853GE
- Amazon echo Plus compatible with no hub required also works with these hubs: SmartThings, Xfinity home, iris, wink, Cox home security, rogers smart home monitoring, PEQ, bright house home security and control, comporium ready home, and Logitech harmony home hub extender. Works with all other Alexa devices for voice control, requires Alexa certified hub (Alexa device and hub sold separately). not compatible with Philips hue (zll – zigbee light link)
- Wirelessly schedule and control Lighting and other devices from anywhere with your smartphone,, tablet or PC. Switch also reports energy usage of connected devices providing the information and automation needed to reduce energy consumption and save energy
- Includes 1 zigbee controlled outlet, 1 always-on outlet and 1 manual on/off program button. Horizontal design plugs into a standard receptacle without blocking the second outlet
- For use with standard incandescent and dimmable CFL and LED bulbs. Max load: 300W incandescent 100 w LED/CFL
- HA 1.2 home automation certified. Receives over-the-air updates and upgrades. This feature may not work with all systems, Please ensure your system is listed above
- Number of Power Outlets: 2
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 2.3 Inches |
Length | 1.4 Inches |
Weight | 0.45 Pounds |
Width | 3.95 Inches |
Size | 1 Pack |
Number of items | 1 |
15. Happyskymall Marswell Ultra-compact High-Speed PWM LED Dimmer 3V - 35V 5A 90w Switching Frequency: 10K for DIY LED Panel Light LED Strip Light (1Pc)
- mini dc motor speed controller. PWM LED Dimmer for DIY LED Panel Light LED Strip Light
- Mini DC 3-35V 5A PWM Motor Speed Controller. Wide voltage DC motor speed controller, PWM duty cycle: 1% -100%.
- By screwing the potentiometer, you can turn off power supply output. High voltage and high current resettable fuse, overcurrent automatic disconnection, power off for cooling for a few seconds fuses automatic recovery.
- Default disconnection of short circuit point. Please note: the operating voltage can be switched to 3-15v by bridging the connectors marked '3-15v' on the PCB.
- Package included : 1 x PWM Speed Dimmer Controller
Features:
Specs:
Color | PWM Speed Controller Dimmer |
Height | 0.59 Inches |
Length | 1.65 Inches |
Weight | 0.01 Pounds |
Width | 0.98 Inches |
Size | 1 Piece |
16. NuTone NPD300Z Smart Z-Wave Enabled Plug-In Outlet Dimmer Module, White
- Turn on/off, dim, schedule, or group the lamp all with a smartphone app
- Automatically turn lights on when you are home, and off when you are away
- Auto Sense feature lets you turn on lamp from smartphone, light or lamp switch
- Plugs into any standard 3-prong 110v outlet
- One smart and one always-on outlet
Features:
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 5 Inches |
Width | 2.56 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
17. Aeotec Smart Dimmer 6 with USB Charging Port, Z-Wave Plus Wireless Dimmer Switch for Home Automation, 2.5A Mini Size
Smart plug light dimmer using Z-Wave to dim up to 60W incandescent and works with some dimmable LEDs. Max 2.5A/ 312W for resistive load, works as a Z-Wave repeater.Designed to offering dimming of incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, and dimmable LED bulbs plugged into a lamp that is plugged into Smart...
Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 2.4 Inches |
Length | 3.4 Inches |
Weight | 0.13 Pounds |
Width | 2.5 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
18. JamBer Smart Switch, Light Timer Wi-Fi Control Switch, Works with APP/Alexa/ Google Home
Multi-timing Mode: The smart switch has 3 timing modes; Scheduled Timing:Users can preset repeat or single timing schedules to turn on/off devices according to your needs. Loop Timing: Allows users to turn on/off a device at preset intervals and run for a specified time. Countdown Timer: It allows u...
19. MiMoo Smart Wireless Wifi Switches, Remote Control Smart Switch Light Switches Compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Google Nest, Smartphone APP for House Appliance, LED Plant Grow Lights, White
📶BRING YOU AMAZING SMART LIFE: The smart switch could connect with 97% household appliances in your home. And you can control these devices by it. This will create smart home to you and bring convenience in your life. The wifi wireless switch is also a environmentally friendly products. It could ...
20. Dimmer Plug, Kohree Dimmer Switch Dimming Kits Plug-in Remote Timer for Outdoor Patio String Lights LED Bulbs, 240W Max Power, 50ft Range Remote Control, 3 Prong Outlet, Weatherproof IP68, ETL Listed
【240W Max Power Output, ONLY WORK WITH DIMMABLE STRING LIGHT/BULBS】 This is end-to-end connection, plug-and-play dimmer switch provides optimal dimming performance for LED dimmable bulbs. No wiring required. ***please make sure that the total power of the string lights is less than 240W,and it o...
Specs:
Size | 10ft |
🎓 Reddit experts on plug-in dimmers
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where plug-in dimmers are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
I'd go with this dimmer: https://www.amazon.com/Leviton-TBL03-10E-Tabletop-Control-300-Watt/dp/B00A80756O/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=TTCL+100H&qid=1567435080&s=gateway&sr=8-4
It's pretty much the same, but handles LED more consistently (less flicker as you attenuate the voltage going into the light. Generally you don't have to worry about flicker, but sometimes it happens when you dim all the way down to like 10%. Dimmers for LED seem to handle at least that aspect better).
For power, you will need an extension cord unless you want to plug the light directly into an outlet just inches away. Usually, you plug the Quasar power connector into the extension cord and then you connect the extension cord into the dimmer and then finally the outlet. My suggestion, is to either buy the lightest weight extension cord you can find, just something really thin, as it will drag less on the light if you have it gaff taped to say, the ceiling / walls or anywhere else.
I started by using cheap 15 to 20 ft small extension cords and then finally moved onto using zip cord / lamp wire. The advantage to using zip cord is that it is very very light weight and can be hidden easily and the best part is that you can make your own cords extremely easily, any length you want and add plugs anywhere along the cord quickly by using add-a-tap plugs (allows you to connect multiple tubes to the same cord).
https://www.amazon.com/cord-lamp-SPT-1-black-roll/dp/B000WS87VY/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=zip+cord+18%2F2&qid=1567435425&s=gateway&sr=8-4https://www.hollywoodexpendables.com/product/add-a-tap-female-wire-plug-adaptor/https://www.amazon.com/Easy-Install-Add-Tap-Brown/dp/B01C2CFY2M
Creating your own cords is very very convenient and easy to do.
I know it contradicts a lot of what you're asking for but I thought I would explain the set up that I've just created for my house. I have Arlo cameras and Samsung SmartThing hub that came with a motion sensor. I bought a GE smart switch to replace the light switch that turns the porch light on. The nice thing about the Arlo cameras is that they show up as motion sensors on the SmartThings hub. Now I have a couple of options for my porch.
I've configured SmartThings to activate the porch light (and garden lights) to come on if the Arlo detects and motion. The Arlo will at the same time trigger the recording to start and stay on until all motion calms down. Then I have another SmartThings routine that will turn off the porch (and garden) light if no motion happens for the following X minutes. The problem with this is that the Arlo doesn't react immediately to the motion (maybe routing through their cloud services and back to SmartThings) so I've been using the SmartThings motion sensor to trigger in addition to Arlo.
Overall pretty happy and it's been pretty reliable so far.
PS: I'm no electrician and was easily able to switch out the light switch but if you're worried about doing this yourself you could always just use a smart bulb.
So the plus just gets you Zigbee control. I have an Echo Plus, but all my smart home devices are wifi, and not Zigbee (except a few hue lights, but I already have the hub for that).
So I'm controlling:
All over wifi.
You'd need the echo plus to control:
This light switch without a hub, but you wouldn't need it for this other switch.
I did some googling, and it looks like no Apple TVs do Zigbee. So the normal echo should be able to do everything it can currently do. The plus just opens the option to directly control Zigbee devices.
edit: as /u/RichardBLine correctly pointed out, Echo Plus supports Zigbee and not Z-wave. I've updated the post and links. Thanks!
I bought a house with in-wall controls that everyone said to rip out. I am extremely glad I ignored them.
If the phone rings or something comes up, I don't want to fire up the Sonos app and start navigating around to control the volume. Also, it requires you buy a sonos controller for each room if you want to control them individually.
Ultimately, I got a big amp and wired up all of downstairs on one bus and a couple extra sonos devices for specific rooms/areas and it works great.
Yes, there is a volume control on the amp, the sonos, AND the room. But it works great and I'm extremely happy to have volume controls in-wall and not just on my phone.
Also, I replaced all the knobs with these; they look nicer and you can visually tell from across the room what the setting is: http://www.amazon.com/Leviton-SGVST-W-Strauss-Transformer-Control/dp/B002MA57TU?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage
I believe that wouldn't work because those 30 watt drivers output DC power for LEDs, but lamps like you linked are designed to work with AC power. Although the Tradfri bulbs are LED, they are designed to work with AC power and have a small driver built in, where as the panel you linked requires an external driver.
There are a couple ways to approach this:
I'm not sure if the Tradfri hub supports that kind of in wall switch, but if you're interested in a project like this you probably ought to consider larger options. Ikea is just one maker of zigbee bulbs and accessories (Tradfri). There is a whole zigbee ecosystem. If Tradfri won't work with the wall switch, you could get a Wink hub that will work with both your Tradfri bulbs and the switch.
Insteon keypadlinc 6 button dimmer and in-line dimmer (links below)
They can be set to communicate with each other without needing a hub.
The keypad is used like this. The main on and off buttons would turn on the vanity lights. Holding the off button dims the light. When it reaches the brightness you desire, you let go.
The other 4 buttons can be programmed to control scenes for the vanity and tub lights.
1 scene would obviously be toggling the just new fixture over the tub.
The other 3 could be a full brightness scene, medium brightness and sexy time.....
Or add another in line relay or on/off micro module to your fart fan and one of the buttons could control that.
Without a hub you won't have any "smart" control ie voice, phone or when you aren't home. They also won't be included in homekit, home assistant or any other automation software you might use.
But if you get a hub then all that can be yours on top of just having a really slick keypad in your bathroom.
Insteon 6-Button Dimmer Keypad, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UDHWP7G/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_riXFDbKK8MEXA
Insteon 2475DA1 In-LineLinc Dual-Band Remote Control In-Line Dimmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008CPHW5Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ikXFDbS7JY078
My house had similar wiring in several rooms, so I removed the wall switches and simply tied the wires together so the outlets would remain on. Then I bought some of these and mated them to a SmartThings hub to do something similar to what you describe:
In the SmartThings App, you can set up Routines "[Room Name] Lights On" and "[Room Name] Lights Off", and you can set them to "Automatically perform '[Room Name] Lights On' when... Something turns on or off." Then you pick the switch you wanted to perform the routine.
Beware, there's a caveat:
Communication from the switch, through the Zigbee network, to the hub, to the Internet, to the SmartThings service, and all the way back to the outlets is slow -- like, it takes 5 whole seconds to turn the lights on -- which, even after a year, is still enough time to make me think, Oh, I probably didn't actually click the switch. It's not something I would recommend to the average person who just likes things to work, but, if you're looking for a very specific solution with the lights and wiring you have, it is actually faster than using voice control. Good luck.
Three light kit with led panels at 400 gonna be tough.
Just make sure you are getting reasonable cri, unlikely that low. Another option that would fit in that range would be something like this:
Softbox qty. 3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DLVR1JK/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_VVTEDb9K7EDK0
Bulb quad splitter qty. 3
https://www.amazon.com/JACKYLED-Light-Bulb-Socket-Adapter/dp/B07BFMY8TR
Led bulbs, qty 12, two six packs
https://www.amazon.com/Hyperikon-Dimmable-Equivalent-Qualified-UL-Listed/dp/B0779C6F3Z
Dimmer qty. 3
https://www.amazon.com/Leviton-TBL03-10E-Tabletop-Control-300-Watt/dp/B00A80756O
Cheapy stands, qty. 4 (at least one will break)
https://www.amazon.com/CowboyStudio-Photography-Light-Stands-Cases/dp/B001WB02Z4
Add in some sandbags, extension cords, etc and up and running as cheap or cheaper than bad quality led panel lights. Not an elegant, durable, or great solution but way better than poor natural light and then can save up for proper lights at better budget maybe?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015YJAHY0/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use these now. "Ok Google, turn on the chandelier", "OK Google dim the living room lights 50%". "Ok google, turn off all of the lights".
Love them and has made life much easier for my wife and I.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077HKMFWM?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A5193J8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hQgpDbBS7950B
I have that light with that dimmer on a 12” x 12” cube.
The dimmer isn’t absolutely necessary but the light is bright so you’d probably want to dim it down if you aren’t doing a high light/ high tech setup.
As you progress in the hobby, it’ll give you room to raise the brightness as you get into co2 injection and fertilization.
So the light switches control the neutral, and you have no hot to gangbox? I don't see how a dumb dimmer could possible work without controlling the hot.
There's two solutions. The first is not to worry about the switches, and use smart bulbs instead. Obviously, with a chandelier, that may not be cost effective.
The other is what you're thinking, but using an inline dimmer instead of an inline switch. Here's one (as an example).
With either method, you're presumably need some way to actually control them, such as Lutron Picos or something.
Honestly, the third option of fixing the wiring would be the best, if the wiring/house allows feeding a new wire to the gangbox.
I don’t know much about electrical code, but this is what we’re currently using - not code? And if not, do you know why? They are super popular on Amazon.
Outdoor Dimmer, Wireless RF Smart... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DZDVQZV?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Love it! What kind of tree is that? It’s perfect for that area. May I suggest a dimmer for the market lights? Something like the one below is what I used on my market light set up and it makes such a difference!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A80756O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_h-G4Cb5T68DRN
You could probably dim those. Just make (or buy) some sort of PWM LED controller.
​
EDIT: Sorry, I shouldn't assume everyone knows these things.
So, an LED is a DC appliance. It can't be AC really. All 'AC' LED lights just rectify the AC into DC. :P
So what makes the AC replacements 'dimmable'?
Well, the AC ones that cooperate with AC dimmers contain a controller that converts the variance in the ~120 volts input AC (when you use the resistive 'old style' dimmer switches for incandescent lights) to a Pulse Width Modulated DC signal driving the LEDs. When the voltage coming in is higher, each 'pulse' is longer with less space between them. When the voltage coming in is lower, each 'pulse is shorter with more space between them. That's an over simplification, but that's the concept. LEDs aren't really 'dimmed', they're 'pulsed' to create the dimmed effect.
​
EDIT 2: You can buy LED drivers (control modules) that have dimmer controls, which run off a DC input voltage (like 12 volts).
​
EDIT 3: Sorry, hope you read this last edit here:
https://www.amazon.com/TronicsPros-12V-24V-Controller-Connector-Monochrome/dp/B016TLH9D4/
Presto! A thing that is literally a 'make this 12 volt LED thing dimmer with a dial' add-on. :)
I use these with my lamps: Schlage Z-Wave Home Dimmer Module
That price is not currently great though, pretty sure I only paid $20 a piece for mine. There are other versions of the same thing, so look around.
The thing that makes these cool is that they can be configured to be "load sensing". This allows you to turn the lamps on from the lamp switch even if the Z-Wave module is set to off (it will detect the load and turn itself to on). You still will have the problem of the lamp switch being off, which is the exact same problem you have with smart bulbs. These are cheaper than smart bulbs and act as Z-Wave repeaters, which if you have other Z-Wave sensors all around can be nice.
I have 2 lamps connected to one of these (via multioutlet extensions) in both my living room and bedroom.
TL;DR: load sensing Z-Wave modules behave identically to smart bulbs, but may be a good alternative.
"Dimmable" LED bulbs are able to be dimmed with an external dimmer. This will work in any dedicated lamp but you wouldn't want to hook a dimmer to a lamp that also combined some other function as the other function might not respond well to the power being reduced.
The next step would be to buy a dimmer. The safest way to get started would be with a cord dimmer like this or this. Just make sure it explicitly says it works with LED bulbs - an "incandescent/halogen only" dimmer isn't what you want.
That's all you need assuming you aren't interested in a "smart" dimmer (controlled by a device). If that is what you are looking for you should head to /r/homeautomation.
Thanks for the super detailed explanation!
So with this switch: https://www.amazon.com/Ulincos-Switch-Momentary-Suitable-Mounting/dp/B07D2DPNZW/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=momentary+switch+LED&qid=1559236337&s=hi&sr=1-7
it says "The touch switch is rated for 7A MAX /DC 6-24V."
With a 6A 12V power supply, and this switch, no MOSFET would be needed at all, right?
For Holiday Lights, I'm squared in the E1.31 and Renard control with Falcon Player at the helm. I don't need to home automate my animated displays though if I had a means to control the schedule via a home controller and other communication between them, that would be cool!
I did some digging and though I won't get dimming, I'm gonna grab these. They won't do DC dimming but I was experimenting around and my DC dimmer seems to save dimming states when it's powered off. So I think this would work - we don't dim the under cabinet lights much anyway.
I have the mat on top of some cardboard and the tub on top of it. Not as many holes in the bin for ventilation and we use fresh greens and veggies to feed them and those keep the humidity pretty high already, you can also use a damp sponge in a dish to help, as long as there is no standing water because the roaches can drown. By switch I meant a dimmer switch to go between the outlet and the mat, like this
https://www.amazon.com/DEWENWILS-Dimmable-Incandescent-Halogen-Extension/dp/B07CZXMGRB/ref=sr_1_12?keywords=sliding+switch&qid=1574313948&smid=A33V0LA7KRMN9P&sr=8-12
Got these dimmers on Amazon for some tabletop lamps. Very very happy with it.
Leviton TBL03-10E Tabletop Slide Control Lamp Dimmer, 300-Watt, Black
link here
GE ZigBee Wireless Smart Lighting Control Dimmer, In-Wall, LED & CFL Compatible, Energy Monitoring, HA1.2, Includes White & Light Almond Paddles, Works with Amazon Alexa and Echo Plus, 45857GE https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015YJAHY0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5SFhAb7330P5M
This works great for SmartThings dimming light strip:
https://amazon.com/gp/product/B00E1OXK3A
https://amazon.com/gp/product/B009TCZNEI
You can get the rope light in different lengths and colors from the same vendor.
I have number 1 (mingdak version) on my 3 gallon tall (12 x 12x 6) and its actually too bright for my java fern.
I ordered a inline dimmer for it
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A5193J8/ref=ya_st_dp_summary?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hoping to lower the output.
I also ordered a bunch of 2835 620nm red leds to replace some of the white ones.
I believe all the Iris stuff is ZigBee, so if you either installed a ZigBee light switch in your garage (or whatever is closest to where your car) or installed a plug-in module that's ZigBee, that should work.
As long as it has constant power to it (ie: not battery powered) both should act as a ZigBee signal repeater.
I believe GE makes ZigBee versions of both.
Just double check your Iris stuff to make sure they're ZigBee - I'm 99% sure they are.
Edit: here are a couple links to what I'm talking about:
In-Wall Switch: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015YJAHY0
Plug-In Module: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E9GKOWO
I just put one of these in a box, with a RCA jack on the output end to go to the dew heater, and a 2.1mmx x 5.5mm jack on the input end for 12V power from my battery / power supply. Box and connectors from Digikey, PWM from Amazon. It sounds like you are handy so it would be a piece of cake.
Isn't Arduino WAY overkill?
Dew controller (with DSLR power supply)
Inside the box
If your outlet is controlled by a switch, you can replace the switch with a 15 amp smart Z-Wave switch. That will handle controlling power to the outlet. Then, you can install a Z-Wave plug-in lamp module to control dimming for the load.
Bear in mind that cutting the power to the outlet will effectively drop the lamp module from your Z-Wave network (temporarily) and that may have a negative impact on your Z-Wave network. A better solution would be to use the multi-tap feature of the switch to trigger an automation in Home Assistant to control the lamp module. For example... a double tap could turn the load on or off and a triple tap could set the dim level to 50%.
This one lists working with Alexa and Google Assistant, plus it has a good diagram for wiring.
I can't find any that specifically say they work with HomeKit.
I use these.They are paired with the Smart Life app which you can use in the Home app. Once they are paired you can give each one a name and say for example "Hey Goole turn on the bed light". They're cheap and you can choose to use them for something else in the future. They do click when they turn on and off like a real switch which can be annoying or satisfying.
Edit: for light switch I bought these. I plan on putting them I side the fixture or the switch but I haven't set it up yet so I can't report on them.
Then you could get a zigbee switch like this or this and pair it to the Hue hub.
Think im gonna just byte the bullet and use one of these: https://www.amazon.ca/Kohree-Dimming-Outdoor-Control-Weatherproof/dp/B07F87DH21/ref=pd_sbs_60_1/133-7173378-1233900?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07F87DH21&pd_rd_r=b4653286-a259-470a-a18a-69ced41a9dc7&pd_rd_w=phUIC&pd_rd_wg=vvxpq&pf_rd_p=4cf4f791-afd4-44de-a643-8ab281642d0c&pf_rd_r=MS3856998Y528F70TBDC&psc=1&refRID=MS3856998Y528F70TBDC
​
Just wish it supported google assistant :(
Not sure what you have for a hub, but I have a few of these and they work fine: https://smile.amazon.com/GoControl-Z-Wave-Plug-Dimmer-Module/dp/B00E1OXK3A/
100w would be too hot at full power in a 20g.
Heres the dimmer I got on Amazon for $11.
Dimmer
I'm sorry I have to say this, and I hope you don't take this as personal attack, it's certainly not meant as one, however, if you have to ask the question you did ask, you're almost certainly not qualified to build circuits that operate on mains voltage. Apart from the danger of electrocuting and killing yourself, there's a high chance for you start a fire.
What I would recommend is to get a dimming inter-plug that speaks zigbee. There are plenty of these around, and there are zigbee modules for arduino, raspi and pretty much everything else that you then use to speak to the inter-plug. That way you can build the low voltage part but don't have to mess with the mains voltage part. This here would be an example of what I mean: https://www.amazon.com/GE-Wireless-compatible-Monitoring-45852GE/dp/B019G6RQCS but there are many others from many other manufacturers as well.
I use "GE 45852GE Zigbee Smart Dimmer Plug-In 2-Outlet Lighting Control, No Wiring Required Works Directly with Alexa Plus, Echo Show (2nd Gen)"
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019G6RQCS
Needs a Zigbee hub (such as found in Echo Plus or Echo Show 2nd gen)
You could go with an Insteon keypadlinc and then use lamp modules or bulbs at the other end. The keypad has 6 or 8 buttons, and you can control one of the lights directly with the module. The other lights you can either use an in-line module, or the bulbs themselves, and hardwire them in your junction box.
Keypad Linc
In-line Dimmer
Lamp Module
Insteon Bulb
WiFi and Zigbee is the same everywhere. Only Z-Wave uses a different frequency in EU and NA
https://www.amazon.co.uk/45856GE-ZigBee-Switch-Monitoring-Certification/dp/B019HTH2A0/ref=pd_lpo_sbs_60_t_0?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=0NT17G41XWQQ58WG015F
zwave
zigbee
Are both sides of your outlet controlled by the switch? If not, you should just be able to change around the way they are wired so that they'll always be hot.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019HTH2A0/ref=mp_s_a_1_fkmr1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1510316625&sr=8-1-fkmr1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=zigbee+jasco
Try an Inline dimmer it looks a little hot
There are plenty of dimmable plugs, just not that use the Zigbee protocol.
Edit: this and this are examples
Most will only turn on/off unless specified. I've ordered this one, which should be able to dim: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B019G6RQCS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
This one's zigbee but I think they also have a z-wave one.
You just need to get her a light dimmer switch to plug the magic wand into.
Either this http://www.lowes.com/pd_339580-1353-45635_0__?productId=3707740&Ntt=iris&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Diris&facetInfo=
Orrrr.
Linear PD300Z-2 Z-Wave 300-watt Plug-In Lamp Dimmer Module, Small, White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E1OXK3A/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_7kJNub1FTRTXB
Or really any other z-wave recepticle
TronicsPros DC 12V-24V 3A LED... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016TLH9D4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
https://www.amazon.ca/Leviton-TBL03-10E-300-watt-Tabletop-Control/dp/B00A80756O/
Does this look like the dimmer you speak of > https://www.amazon.com/TronicsPros-12V-24V-Controller-Connector-Monochrome/dp/B016TLH9D4/ref=sr_1_3?s=industrial&ie=UTF8&qid=1530323873&sr=1-3&keywords=dc+led+light+dimmer#customerReviews
I know they sell exactly what you're asking for, you see it on nightstands in hotel rooms sometimes.
Here's a dimmer model that goes between the lamp and the outlet and then has one cord going up to the nightstand switch.:
https://www.leviton.com/en/images/lc/TBI03-1LW-new.jpg
Try this one.
I too use mine for "sore muscles".
You might want to look into one of these. Solves the intensity issue.
Oh! I must be misunderstanding, then. When I think of "smart switch," I think of this. We have these all over the house to control the lights we don't need to dim.
What were you talking about?
Be careful with that. Since it's a dimmer, and not a true switch, all of it's output is PWM. There's no instant on or off. If I were you, I'd go the switch version of that outlet.
I put dimmer switches on my ordinary bedside lamps. Left the nursery one on its lowest setting all night so we could do changes without turning it on and off. Bedroom one I kept under my pillow. Very handy, very cheap.