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    oneglobal1's Avatar
    oneglobal1 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Jan 9, 2012, 03:32 PM
    Dimmer switch does not dim
    Hi, The dimmer switch in the kitchen used to dim the lights, now when I turn the kitchen dimmer on it goes straight to the brightest light, & the dimmer switch is hot. Is this something that can be fixed easily or do I need to hire an electrical and lighting guy to repair? Thank you, Christina
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
     
    #2

    Jan 9, 2012, 06:28 PM
    I would not try any fix, just replace. A good dimmer runs about $15 and anyone who can change a light switch can do it, low skill job. Sounds like you may own this basic model Lutron Rotary Dimmers
    Fr_Chuck's Avatar
    Fr_Chuck Posts: 81,301, Reputation: 7692
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    #3

    Jan 9, 2012, 06:33 PM
    Has it just stopped working? What type of bulbs are you using. Many of the modern energy efficient bulbs do not dim.
    oneglobal1's Avatar
    oneglobal1 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #4

    Jan 10, 2012, 08:28 AM
    Thank you both, I am going to replace the dimmer.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
    Home Repair & Remodeling Expert
     
    #5

    Jan 10, 2012, 08:40 AM
    Let us know if you are unsure about how to wire. Make sure power to the entire circuit is off at the panel
    oneglobal1's Avatar
    oneglobal1 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #6

    Jan 10, 2012, 08:44 AM
    Thank you Ballengerb1. I am going to use the local handyman at the True Value hardware store in my neighborhood to switch out the dimmer.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #7

    Jan 10, 2012, 03:40 PM
    OK and thanks, keep us informed as to how it turns out.
    oneglobal1's Avatar
    oneglobal1 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #8

    Jan 11, 2012, 08:33 AM
    Thanks again, touched base with the handyman and he will switch out on Saturday.
    ballengerb1's Avatar
    ballengerb1 Posts: 27,378, Reputation: 2280
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    #9

    Jan 11, 2012, 09:47 AM
    It's a real simple job, maybe 15 minutes, only 3 wire with wire nuts, 2 screws on the plate. Because he has to travel to your home his work may still cost your$25 or more.
    oneglobal1's Avatar
    oneglobal1 Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #10

    Jan 11, 2012, 01:39 PM
    Thank you, you're a mind reader! I was going to ask you what you thought was a fair price.
    I appreciate it. I just used him to hook a dryer vent up and he accepted $20.00 You have been a great help!
    Christina

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