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47fordsedan · Jan 6, 2007, 10:09 PM

My church just bought an old building to move to. In the large room we removed all the lights. We wanted to install 6 light fixtures and 4 ceiling fans with lights. We wanted to add a dimmer switch to dim all the lights but found out all of the wiring is controlled by one switch. If we install a dimmer it will slow down the fans and most likelly make them hum and maybe burn up the fan circuit. Do you have any suggestions? Is there anything on the market we could install?

ceilingfanrepair · Jan 6, 2007, 10:18 PM

First of all, as a church musician, I would suggest that you re-think dimmer switches. Dimmer switches mean you can only use incadenscent bulbs, which generate a lot of heat. Especially if you like chandelier candelabra type that so many churches think are so pretty but they get so hot and we FRY! Forgo the dimmers and you can use compact fluorescents which save evergy and don't get nearly as hot. I can't think of a church service I've been in where they actually dimmed the lights. They're always on full.

Secondly, the only way to control 4 fans with lights and 6 lights separately if they are all on the same switch.. . Would be to buy 10 ceiling fan remote control kits, set them all to the same frequency. Install one in each fan and each light fixture, but in the light fixtures, only hook up the light portion. 10 remote kits = $350, give or take, I would think it would cost less to simply have someone run the wire for a second switch.

47fordsedan · Jan 6, 2007, 10:42 PM

We have a projector and screen on, which plays video and the music. That is why we wanted to dim the lights. I thought about the remote setup, until I saw the price at the store. The other problem is that the carpenter closed in the only access hole into the attic. And you are correct, the Pastor is a woman and she wants those pretty chandelier lights.

ceilingfanrepair · Jan 6, 2007, 10:45 PM

The male Pastors want those too! I have yet to be able to convince anyone thet use a ton of electricity, generate a ton of heat, and don't give much useable light. If you want them, install then on dimmers just for decoration, and then have track or recessed lights for the actual practical light.