Adding A Dimmer Switch to RV LED Lights
Installing the Dimmer Switch
We had a dimmer switch next to the theater seating and wanted to use a similar switch in the back living area where the three cushion couch is located. We didn’t need to run any wiring, just replace the on-off switch currently installed with a dimmer switch.
We found a 12 Volt DC dimmer switch on Amazon that was similar to the style next to our theater seating. The switch will dim up to 60 watts (4.2 amps) of incandescent, halogen, or LED lighting. Aside for the benefit of adjusting light intensity, the dimming also reduces heat and power drain on batteries especially for RVs using incandescent or halogen bulbs.
Installation was simple. Remove the old switch, carefully enlarge the hole in the wall to fit the dimmer switch, disconnect the existing switch, connect the three wires – 12V DC power, ground, and the control to the dimmer, and mount with screws and install the plate cover.
LED Flicker
There can be issues where some lights may flicker when dimmed. This is rarely the case with incandescent or halogen bulbs, but can occur with some LED lights that do not support lower voltages for the dimming function.
Our Montana 5th wheel is equipped with puck style LED lighting. These lights work well with dimmers. If you plan to upgrade your RV’s incandescent or halogen bulbs with LEDs, make sure you find those that specifically state they will support dimmer voltages.
One other note. In the video below, the dimming of our LED lights shows a flicker. The flicker is a camera anomaly and not seen by the human eye. Unfortunately we did not have a camera setting that would refresh to eliminate the flicker in the recording and I can confirm that no flicker is experienced from the human eye.
Dimmer Switch Installation Results
Installation took less than 30 minutes and has now made the space more enjoyable for evening TV viewing as well as a more comfortable space when we have visitors sitting on the couch.
We now have a full range of operation for the four LED lights from a simple off and on, to dim to bright.
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).
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