I work in a new commercial building and the overhead can lights and ceiling fans are controlled by dimmer switches. The metal switch plates get hot enough to be uncomfortable to touch. When I taped them off to prevent use until the contractor could look at them the glue on the back of the tape melted.

The contractor says it is normal for big commercial dimmers to "unload alot of heat". He said he is not concerned about a risk of fire.
We are caring for twenty folks with developmental disabilities and I am concerned about fire hazard.

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Originally Posted by kaymelvin

I work in a new commercial building and the overhead can lights and ceiling fans are controlled by dimmer switches. The metal switch plates get hot enough to be uncomfortable to touch. When I taped them off to prevent use until the contractor could look at them the glue on the back of the tape melted.

The contractor says it is normal for big commerical dimmers to "unload alot of heat". He said he is not concerned about a risk of fire.
We are caring for twenty folks with developmental disabilities and I am concerned about fire hazard.

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May be warm, not hot enough to melt a tape... what is the rating on the switch; how much power was passing through it( total lites' wattage)... when install next to another dimmer it must derated to a lower rating( must use less power)... check the spec... it may not cause fire but you may need to replace it in the near future

Dimmers are designed to dissipate heat. If the heat seems excessive, contact the manufacturer with your concerns.

Also remind the contractor that since he furnished and installed the units, he is liable for any damage or injuries.

Dimmer Switches will get hot when you exceed the watt rating of the switch. Dimmers switches are rated from 300 watts to at least 600 watts. Let assume that you have a dimmer switch that controls your ceiling lights and you have six 100 watt light bulbs in the ceiling you will need a 600 watt dimmer switch. On the other hand if you have a dimmer switch hooked up to two lamps and them have 100 watt bulb in each a 300 watt dimmer switch is fine. Go to your local Home Depot or Lowe's and they will explain it to you.

Wow, that last post is ridiculous.

The last time I was in a Lowe's or home depot the electrical department had some under twenty kids working there... hec, they couldn't spell dimmer switch let alone explain how they work.
Mike