How Do You Control A Motor Speed With A Dimmer Switch?
Several electric motor controllers operate on the same principle as dimmer switches, such as the trigger on a variable speed power drill. A common household dimmer switch used for motor speed control connects to a ceiling fan. There is a difference in lighting dimmers and those designed to handle the load for an electric motor. Pay attention to power ratings to connect the right switch to a motor. Choose a dimmer that’s made for running an electric motor. Select a switch manufactured for use as a motor controller that has an adjustable minimum speed setting. Match the power rating on the switch to the specifications for the motor. A ceiling fan will have a sticker label, or metal plate on the inside or outside of the hub cover that lists the amps and possibly the watts used at maximum power consumption. Find the number of watts used by multiplying 120 by the number of amps if the watts are not listed. Buy a switch that is rated to handle an equal amount or more watts used by the motor.
