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Replacing Light Fixture Dimmer Q&A
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Dear NH,
I have a light switch and speed
control rheostat
for the ceiling fan on the same
faceplate. The faceplate becomes very hot after the fan has been
on for a
few hours. I also detected an odor coming from the faceplate
area. Since
the rheostat is 14 years old, I decided to replace it, hoping to
correct the
problem. The wires all look good, but I am worried that there
may be a more
serious problem. The smell was very pronounced when I removed
the cover.
What do you think?
IV from points unknown
IV,
Replacing the speed control was a good
choice. They do absorb power, especially when used at low
settings, get hot (which is normal), and eventually burn out. It
is an escalating phenomenon... as they begin to get hotter the
lifespan of the switch drops quickly.
Since you did not notice any heat
damage to the insulation on the wires, I think that you have completed
the correct repair, based on the info you gave me.
Just a note: Dimmer controls for light
fixtures work on the same principle and also eventually fail for the same
reason... the long-term effects of heat buildup.
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