Trying to figure out if I can dim a light from two locations using two 3 way dimmers. Did a search and found that the answer is generally that you can only dim from one location and that the other location simply turns it off and on.
I did however find a reference to another way to do it–
“Lutron makes a unit that comes with a master and slave for about $40-50. HD has it. Then you can add up to 9 more slaves. It is electronic, but wired similar to regular 3-ways. It allows both on/off and dimming control from any switch position.”
Does anyone know what this unit is called? Can I infact dim in a 3 way loop from both switches?
Thanks
Skippy
Replies
Its the Maestro series. I've installed them before they're good switches and yes you can control dimming from multiple locations.
BTW DO NOT wire these switches hot. They do not survive spikes at all (ask me how I know). Lucky me, I was working with 1000w units which are $60 a piece.
Pricey lesson.
The generic name is Smart Dimmers.They re also availabe in the Lutron Faedra series.There are some other brands, but I don't rmember who they where..
.
A-holes. Hey every group has to have one. And I have been elected to be the one. I should make that my tagline.
> The generic name is Smart Dimmers.Kind of an oxymoron.
So convenient a thing it is to be a reasonable Creature, since it enables one to find or make a Reason for everything one has a mind to do. --Benjamin Franklin
Yes, the Lutron unit is basically a master switch and a remote control. They communicate over regular 3-way wiring, but only one is actually controlling the light.
Dan, its been a little since I installed these. Doesnt the slave have a dim adjustment on it too?
I think there are variations, but yes, the slave can dim. It's doing it by remote control, though -- all the "smarts" are in the master unit.
So convenient a thing it is to be a reasonable Creature, since it enables one to find or make a Reason for everything one has a mind to do. --Benjamin Franklin