Replies

1. 
   Stuart | Jan 11, 2004 04:35am | #1

   Unfortunately, no.  A regular light dimmer decreases the amplitude of the AC voltage but does not change the 60 cycles per second frequency, which is what controls the speed of the motor.

2. 
   OneofmanyBobs | Jan 12, 2004 02:44pm | #2

   You'd have to replace the motor with an AC/DC variety to use a speed control.  This is not a good choice because they have brushes and would eventually need replacement.  Also the wrong speed; too fast.  You may be able to hunt around and find a 2-speed AC motor the same size.  Maybe 900/1800 RPM.  This would just use a switch, not a dimmer.

3. 
   tenpenny | Jan 12, 2004 06:00pm | #3

   Check whatever literature you have from the fireplace; in my experience, almost all of them are designed for this; however, make sure the dimmer/speed control is the kind you'd use for a ceiling fan or kitchen fan.  No big problem.

1. 
   edwardh1 | Jan 12, 2004 06:35pm | #4

   Thanks

   i should have thought of that

   will do

4. 
   rjw | Jan 12, 2004 11:42pm | #5

   Yes, it will control the speed, and no, you shouldn't use it to do that.

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5. 
   renosteinke | Jan 13, 2004 03:03am | #6

      If you look closely at the dimmers in the store, you will see that there are two types: for motors, and for lights.

      The ones for lights typically start the light at its' lowest setting, then gradually increase to full brightness.

      Some for motors work in a similar manner, but start the motor at full power, then reduce the speed. A more common type these days lets you select one of three speeds. These are "better," in that they are less likely to either cause the motor to hum, or to generate radio noise.