Why Do My LED Lights Flicker Even When Using a Dimmer?

LED lighting has become the preferred choice for energy efficiency and longevity, but many users experience flickering issues when using a dimmer. If your LED lights flicker, even with a dimmer, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll explain the causes of LED flickering and how to fix it for a smooth, flicker-free lighting experience.

Common Causes of LED Flickering with a Dimmer

1. Incompatible Dimmer Switch

Many dimmers are designed for incandescent or halogen bulbs, not LEDs. If your dimmer is not LED-compatible, it may cause flickering.

Fix: Upgrade to an LED-compatible dimmer switch (marked as “LED dimmable” or “Triac/ELV compatible”).

2. Non-Dimmable LED Bulbs or Strips

Not all LED products are dimmable. If you use a non-dimmable LED with a dimmer switch, it may flicker, buzz, or not work at all.

Fix: Check if your LED bulbs or LED strip support dimming. If not, replace them with dimmable LEDs.

3. Low-Quality LED Drivers

LED strips and fixtures use LED drivers (power supplies) to regulate voltage. If the driver is low quality or incompatible with dimming, flickering can occur.

Fix: Use a high-quality, dimmable LED driver that matches your LED’s voltage and wattage.

4. Mismatched Power Load and Dimmer Requirements

Traditional dimmers require a minimum wattage load to function properly. Since LEDs consume much less power than incandescent bulbs, a low power load can cause flickering.

Fix:

l Choose a dimmer designed for low-wattage LED loads.

l If your dimmer has a minimum wattage requirement, consider adding more LED bulbs or using a dimmer with a lower minimum load.

5. Poor Wiring or Loose Connections

Loose wiring, old electrical installations, or poor connections can lead to unstable power flow, resulting in flickering.

Fix:

l Check for loose wire connections at the dimmer switch and LED fixture.

l Ensure proper grounding of electrical components.

l If unsure, consult a licensed electrician.

6. Electrical Interference or Voltage Fluctuations

Other electrical devices (e.g., refrigerators, air conditioners) may cause voltage fluctuations, leading to LED flickering.

Fix:

l Use a voltage stabilizer or surge protector.

l Ensure your LED driver has a built-in voltage regulator.

How to Ensure Flicker-Free LED Dimming

✅ Use dimmable LEDs and dimmable drivers.

✅ Choose an LED-compatible dimmer switch.

✅ Ensure the power load matches the dimmer’s requirements.

✅ Check wiring and connections.

✅ Reduce electrical interference in your home.

By addressing these common flickering causes, you can enjoy smooth, flicker-free LED lighting that works perfectly with your dimmer switch.

Need recommendations for LED-compatible dimmers or drivers? Let us know!

LEDFOCUS is a dedicated LED strip lighting manufacturer based in Shenzhen, China. Since our establishment in 2011, we have been committed to the design, development, and production of high-quality LED strip lighting products. With over a decade of industry experience, LEDFOCUS has become a trusted B2B partner for customers across Europe, the USA, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

Contact us (www.ledfocus.cn) today for free samples, product catalogs, or to discuss your upcoming project needs.