Can CFL bulbs be controlled with dimmers?
Don’t use regular CFL bulbs in sockets with conventional dimmer controls. Specially designed dimmable CFLs will work in these locations. This feature will be specified on the packaging. Dimmable CFLs cost more than standard CFLs and some people have not been satisfied with the light quality when they’re dimmed. However, the selection and performance is improving. Dimmable CFLS tend to dim well with mechanical slide and rotary controls but not as well with electronic dimming controls, programmable controls and remote controls. These special bulbs should not be screwed into “hot” sockets, so be sure to turn off power to the socket before installation of the bulb. Dimmable fluorescents generally will not light when the dimming control is at less than full power. Adjust the control to full power, turn on the switch and dim the fluorescent to the desired level.
