How can I dim LED lights, and which dimmer type should I choose?

Technical Support
Dimming LED lights is possible in two main ways:
  1. Leading-edge dimming (RL)
  2. Trailing-edge dimming (RC)
These methods are often labeled on dimmers as RL (leading-edge), RC (trailing-edge), or RLC (universal, supporting both).
How to choose the right dimmer:
The driver of the LED lamp determines whether it supports leading-edge or trailing-edge dimming. While the technical process is not essential to understand, it is critical to select a compatible dimmer for your lamp.
  • Using the wrong dimmer may cause flickering, buzzing, or failure to dim.
  • Check the lamp or packaging for recommended dimming technology.
If no specific type is indicated, a trailing-edge dimmer (RC) is usually a safe choice, as around 90% of LED lamps on the market perform best with this technology. Alternatively, you can opt for a universal RLC dimmer, which supports all dimming types and ensures compatibility.
Common dimmer classifications:
  • R dimmers: Compatible with resistive loads (R).
  • RC dimmers: Compatible with resistive (R) and capacitive (C) loads.
  • RL dimmers: Compatible with resistive (R) and inductive (L) loads.
  • RLC dimmers: Compatible with all three load types.
If you’re still unsure about the correct dimmer for your lamp, feel free to contact us. We’ll gladly assist you in finding the best solution!
Article ID: 1044, , Modified: 1/17/2025 at 10:50 AM

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