Using Dimmer Switch For Fan Speed Control

A fan speed control is not the same as a dimmer switch.

Using dimmer switch for fan speed control.

Continuing the discussion from fan light dimming aeon labs aeotec z wave micro dimmer. In this circumstance the light kit could be connected to a dimmer switch and the fan motor connected to a toggle switch. I know intuitively it seems like it would work but its not a good idea. Make sure the switches are fully compatible with the ceiling fan part and the size for the control component.

A typical ceiling fan motor is an ac induction motor. Rate controls for home use are usually either triac or vfd variable frequency drive. For a switch to effectively slow down that type of motor it requires a variable frequency drive vfd or a triac with some extra circuitry. The skylark fan control is designed to conveniently the skylark fan control is designed to conveniently set the speed of a ceiling fan.

Don t try to use a dimmer switch as a fan speed control. 4 speed with off fan control 1 5 a rating for paddle type ceiling fans. There is a growing misconception that this is safe to do but the logic behind it is flawed. Ceiling fan motor speed controls and dimmer switches a fan speed control may be used for a compatible ceiling fan motor.

Provides control of one ceiling paddle fan and 3 quiet fan speeds provide increased comfort. A triac controller varies only the voltage. You cannot use a light dimmer to control a fan. A dimmer switch for motor speed control can be installed with a few precautions and considerations in mind.

250 w of incandescent halogen. A fan that has no speed control when manufactured has copper windings inside that determine speed and horsepower. If your ceiling fan has wiring already in place where you have a separate switch for fan control then you can have the separate controls wired to independent switches. Installing dimmer switches is a seemingly easy way to control a ceiling fan and or a lighting fixture.

Leviton fan speed controls change the level of power in the fan motor to control the speed of your fan. Not for use with bathroom or exhaust type fans. Available in gloss satin colors. Yeah basically you need to read the manufacturer s directions for the fan and check that against the manufacturer s directions for the dim control.

It can have a big impact and be an inexpensive way to control the fixture. Single pole only no neutral required.