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goshawks00 · 02-22-2012, 03:18 PM

I just bought a four bulb LED kit from IKEA. It came with lights, an LED driver, a 120V cord with a toggle on/off switch. What I'd like to know is can I run a dimmer/on-off for these LED lights? And if so which side ( if it matters) do I add the dimmer/on-off switch

Soyboy · 02-23-2012, 08:34 AM

I think the bulbs have to be designed to operate with a dimmer IIRC. Do yours indicate whether or not they will dim?

barts · 02-23-2012, 10:14 AM

This gets complicated....

LEDs are current driven devices, so need a regulator to provide the right amount of current. With common RV LED bulbs, this is built in so that the bulb/strip/whatever can be supplied with 12V. Many of these work well with
simple 12V PWM (pulse width modulated) dimmers.

Some 120V LED systems include the driver in the plug; you can generally read the output of the plug (so many volts, or so many milliamps). These will not work with a 120V dimmer unless especially designed to do so. If your bulbs need 12V, you may well be able to drive them directly w/ 12V from your batteries/converter, and you may also be able to use a 12V PWM dimmer.

- Bart

Zia · 02-23-2012, 10:43 AM

I have 2011 AS with LED's but does not have the dimmers, the 2012 have the dimmer added. Somebody told me that that dimmer do not save any energy. Is it true?

goshawks00 · 02-23-2012, 12:57 PM

OK guys Dan @ ledrv straightened this out for me... I didn't need this kit going from 120v down to 12v. I should just use 12v. LEDs and wire them direct to a 12v source. as far as the dimmer goes... I can use a 12v dimmer. I have already returned the set back to IKEA and am going to do as Dan said and go straight to a 12v line.
Learn something new every day.
Barry