LEDs draw very little power, and many older dimmers were built for incandescent bulbs. That mismatch causes most LED dimming trouble.
Why do my LED lights flicker on a dimmer?
- Incompatible dimmer: old incandescent dimmers may need a minimum load that a few LEDs do not reach.
- Non-dimmable bulbs on a dimmer.
- Mixed bulbs (brands or types) on one dimmer.
- Low-end trim set too low on an adjustable dimmer.
- Less often, a loose connection. If flicker comes with heat or buzzing at the switch, see warning signs.
How is it fixed?
Use dimmable LEDs and an LED-rated dimmer from the light maker's compatibility list, then set the low-end trim. Replacing a dimmer is a wiring job inside a switch box, best handled by an electrician, especially on older or aluminum wiring.
Common questions
Why do LED lights buzz on a dimmer?
Usually the dimmer and the LED driver are not compatible. An LED-rated dimmer matched to the fixture usually fixes it.
General information for California homes under the California Electrical Code (based on the NEC). Local rules and inspectors can vary. Not a substitute for an on-site inspection. Never work inside a panel, at the meter or on live circuits.