FAQ

ManualsBrandsLeviton ManualsDimmersDecora Universal Dimmer, 450-Watt LED and CFL/1000-Watt Incandescent/1000VA Magnetic Low Voltage

Frequently Asked Questions

Decora

Universal Dimmers

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Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.

201 North Service Road, Melville, NY 11747-3138, 1-800-323-8920 Tech Line: 1-800-824-3005 Fax: 1-800-832-9538 www.leviton.com/universal

 What are the benefits of using the Universal LED/CFL compatible dimmer?

The benefits of using this dimmer include smooth operation for precise dimming, low level

starting and flicker-free operation when used with incandescent and compatible dimmable

LED/CFL bulbs. It is designed to provide optimal performance when used with dimmable LED

or dimmable CFL bulbs. Even if you are currently using incandescent bulbs, you can future

proof by installing the Universal Dimmer to ensure compatibility in the future with dimmable

LED/CFL bulbs. For quality assurance the Universal Dimmers have been evaluated and listed

specifically for use with dimmable LED and dimmable CFL loads in addition to incandescent.

 What types of bulbs can be used with the Universal Dimmers?

Universal dimmers are designed to work with dimmable LED, dimmable CFL, incandescent

and halogen bulbs. Some universal dimmers are also designed for Magnetic Low Voltage

(MLV) and Electronic Low Voltage (ELV) loads. Leviton recommends only LED and CFL bulbs

that are labeled as DIMMABLE be used with the Universal Dimmer. The packaging on the bulb

should identify it as dimmable.

 Will I save energy if I dim LED and CFL bulbs?

Yes, dimming any bulb reduces energy consumption. Below is an example of the energy

savings* realized when you dim incandescent, dimmable LED or dimmable CFL bulbs.

* Energy savings may vary.

 Can I use an incandescent-ONLY dimmer on dimmable LED/CFL bulbs?

No. Agency listings associated with Universal LED/CFL dimmers have specific test

requirements to safely control and operate dimmable LED and CFL bulbs. We cannot

recommend the use of an incandescent dimmer with dimmable LED/CFL bulbs.

 Can I use an Electronic Low Voltage dimmer on dimmable LED/CFL bulbs?

Electronic Low Voltage (ELV) dimmers incorporate reverse-phase dimming control, which

tends to provide enhanced performance with dimmable LED bulbs. Before using an ELV

dimmer with LED/CFL bulbs, ensure the dimmer indicates that it is listed for use with these

bulb types. These dimmers do require connection to a neutral wire, which is often not available

in older construction. In addition, Electronic Low Voltage dimmers are typically a more

expensive solution.

 Is a neutral wire required with the Leviton Universal Dimmers?

No, the Universal Dimmers are two wire devices that can replace any standard electrical switch.

Summary of content (4 pages)

PAGE 1
Frequently Asked Questions Decora® Universal Dimmers  What are the benefits of using the Universal LED/CFL compatible dimmer? The benefits of using this dimmer include smooth operation for precise dimming, low level starting and flicker-free operation when used with incandescent and compatible dimmable LED/CFL bulbs. It is designed to provide optimal performance when used with dimmable LED or dimmable CFL bulbs.
PAGE 2
Frequently Asked Questions Decora® Universal Dimmers  What makes dimming a dimmable LED/CFL bulb different than dimming an incandescent bulb? Dimmable LED/CFL bulbs contain electronic circuitry not present in incandescent bulbs. Therefore, it can be difficult to achieve the same smooth start and complete dimming range as one sees with incandescent bulbs.
PAGE 3
Frequently Asked Questions Decora® Universal Dimmers  The packaging indicates that the Universal Dimmers are suitable for single pole and 3-way applications, what does that mean? Single pole means controlling one or more lighting fixtures from one location. 3-way is the ability to control one or more lighting fixtures from two separate switch locations.
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Frequently Asked Questions Decora® Universal Dimmers * “Kick start” is a precise boost of energy applied to difficult to start CFLs to initiate smooth start up and prevent flickering. This feature maximizes the usable dimming range by allowing the user to start at the lowest possible dim/bright bar position.  Why is there no light from the LED bulbs when the dimmer is ON at the lowest dim setting? The universal dimmers have been designed to function with a variety of LED bulbs.