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Frequently asked questions

Answers to the questions customers ask us most, from choosing and fitting a dimmer to curing flicker. Search, or browse by product or topic.

Showing 18 questions about Grid dimmers and PowerGrid Show all questions

Choosing a dimmer

Which dimmer suits your lights, how much lighting it can take, and dimming from more than one switch.

How many lamps can my dimmer control?

Add up the wattage of all the lamps the dimmer controls: the number of lamps times the watts printed on each. The total must not be more than the maximum load per gang on the dimmer's label and data sheet. For example, 8 LED downlights of 5W each add up to 40W.

DimmerLoad per dimmer (gang)
V-Pro0-120W or 0-300W, no minimum load
V-Pro Multiway, V-Pro Smart120W, no minimum load
V-Pro Multi-Point100W (1 to 10 dimmable LED lamps), no minimum load
V-Pro Micro160W of dimmable LED
V-Com0-100W, 15-180W, 15-220W, 20-400W or 40-600W (the first figure is the minimum)
V-Dim (halogen)Up to 1000W, depending on model; at least 100W recommended: see the V-Dim guide

PowerGrid grid dimmers also have a maximum per plate: single plate (1 to 2 gang) 400W, twin (3 to 4 gang) 800W, double twin (6 to 8 gang) 1200W, triple twin (9 to 12 gang) 1800W, and no more than 800W per row.

With low voltage lighting, add up the VA ratings of the transformers, not the wattage of the bulbs: see transformers and dimmer load. For lamp-by-lamp advice see our compatibility guides.

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Is a V-Pro dimmer 1-way or 2-way?

Both. Each V-Pro dimmer has three terminals, C, L1 and L2, and works on 1-way circuits (one switch) and 2-way circuits (two switches, e.g. top and bottom of the stairs). V-Com dimmers are the same.

On a 2-way circuit replace only one of the switches with the dimmer: you dim from that switch, and the other switch turns the lights on and off. See how to wire it. To dim from every switch, see dimming from more than one switch.

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Setting up and programming

Dimming modes, minimum and maximum brightness, resets, and pairing supplementary controllers, remotes and the app.

V-Pro and V-Com rotary dimmers

How do I change the dimming mode on a V-Pro or V-Com dimmer?

V-Pro dimmers have three modes: Mode 1 trailing edge (the default, best for most LEDs), Mode 2 simulated leading edge, not triac (certain LEDs) and Mode 3 alternative trailing edge (some LEDs). On V-Com dimmers Mode 1 is recommended; if you notice any flashing, try Mode 2 or, in some cases, Mode 3.

  1. Set the knob to maximum (MKP100 module: a high brightness level). Switch the lights off and on once per second, 3 times (6 presses of the knob in all), to enter configuration mode.
  2. For Mode 2: turn the knob fully anticlockwise and wait 2 seconds.
    For Mode 3: turn it fully anticlockwise, then fully clockwise, and wait 2 seconds.
  3. The lights flash to confirm: once for Mode 1, twice for Mode 2, three times for Mode 3.

To go back to Mode 1, reset the dimmer to factory settings. If Mode 2 draws too much current, the dimmer goes back to Mode 1 by itself.

These steps are for current dimmers. Older dimmers may be programmed differently: check the software version on the side of the module and use the matching leaflet from the instruction leaflets or earlier leaflets page. There is a programming video on VARILIGHT TV, and the steps for every range are in set up your dimmer.

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How do I set the minimum brightness on a V-Pro or V-Com dimmer?

If your lights flicker at low brightness, raise the minimum. If they are too bright at the lowest setting, lower it.

  1. Turn the dimmer to a low brightness level (MJP120 and MJP300 modules: fully anticlockwise).
  2. Switch the lights off and on once per second, 3 times.
  3. The lights "step" up and down to confirm you are in configuration mode.
  4. Turn the knob fully clockwise to begin the adjustment.
  5. Slowly turn the knob down and up until you find your preferred minimum brightness.
  6. Leave the knob in this position: after 5 seconds the setting saves automatically.

Make sure all the lamps stay visibly on at the lowest setting (UK EcoDesign Regulation 1194/2012). Can't get into configuration mode? Child lock may be on. Other ranges: set up your dimmer.

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How do I set the maximum brightness on a V-Pro or V-Com dimmer?

If the lights flicker at high brightness, lower the maximum. If they aren't bright enough, you can raise it.

  1. Set the dimmer to maximum (fully clockwise).
  2. Switch the lights on and off once per second.
  3. Set the knob to minimum, then switch on and off again.
  4. Return the knob to maximum and switch the lights on.
  5. In configuration mode, turn the knob fully anticlockwise to begin the adjustment.
  6. Slowly turn the knob until you find your preferred maximum brightness.
  7. Leave it for 5 seconds to save.

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How do I reset a V-Pro or V-Com dimmer to factory settings?

A reset restores Mode 1 and the original brightness settings.

  1. Set the knob to maximum and switch off and on 3 times, about once per second.
  2. Wait at least 3 seconds, then switch off and on 3 times again.
  3. The lights fade off: the reset is complete.

If the dimmer won't respond, child lock may be on. Resetting another range: set up your dimmer.

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Fitting and wiring

Wiring 2-way and multi-way circuits, wall box depths and where to find the instructions. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

Dimmers

How do I wire a V-Pro dimmer on a 2-way circuit?

Switch off at the mains first. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

  1. Replace only one of the two switches with the dimmer (fitting two dimmers causes flicker). Note the position of each wire on the old switch, and keep any wires that were grouped together in one terminal together.
  2. The wire(s) from the common terminal of the old switch go into C.
  3. The other two wires go into L1 and L2, either way round.
  4. For metal faceplates, connect the earth wire to the marked earthing terminal.
  5. Fit the dimmer into the wall box without overtightening, check no wires are trapped behind it, restore the power and test.

1-way circuit (one switch): one wire into C, the other into L1 (either way round); L2 is not used.

More than one dimmer on the plate: treat each set of three terminals as a separate dimmer. If the old switch had terminals linked between gangs, link the same terminals on the dimmer with a short wire.

Diagrams are in the V-Pro instructions (PDF), and there is a V-Pro video on VARILIGHT TV. V-Com dimmers are wired the same way: see the V-Com instructions (PDF).

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What depth of back box do I need?
Minimum depthClassicUltraflatScrewless
Dimmers25mm35mm35mm
Rocker and toggle switches16mm25mm25mm
13A and 5A sockets, fused spurs25mm35mm35mm

PowerGrid: 35mm for dimmers, 25mm for rockers and fuses. V-Pro Multi-Point grid dimmers depend on the faceplate: 25mm with a Classic faceplate, 35mm with a Screwless faceplate. Cooker panels and shaver sockets need deeper boxes: see wall box depths for every range. The depth for a particular product is also on its data sheet: type the product code into the search box.

Single dimmer plates fit wall boxes with 60.3mm fixing centres, double plates 120.6mm. A box with four fixing lugs needs the top and bottom lugs broken off or bent flat. 3 and 4-gang dimmers come on a wider twin plate, so check your wall box.

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Where can I find the instructions or a wiring diagram for my product?

The instruction leaflet, with its wiring diagrams, comes with your product. You can also find every current leaflet on the instruction leaflets page, and leaflets for older and discontinued products on the earlier leaflets page. Where relevant, check the software version and choose the correct leaflet: the software version is on the side of the dimmer module.

We also have a page of wiring diagrams and how-to videos. Every data sheet links to the product's leaflet: type the product code into the search box. If the wiring diagram is not enough, please contact a qualified electrician.

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What do I need to remove before an insulation test?

Dimmers from all of our ranges should be disconnected for the duration of the insulation resistance test. Failing to do so could damage the dimmer and make the product guarantee invalid.

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Switches, sockets and grid products

How do I fit PowerGrid items together?

We have a video on our VARILIGHT TV YouTube channel showing how to install PowerGrid.

The PowerGrid items fit together using a front plate, a frame and a combination of modules. In order to fit them together, follow the instructions below. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

  1. Always disconnect the mains before beginning any electrical work.
  2. Clip the grid modules into the grid frame: dimmers from the rear, switches and fuses from the front.

    PowerGrid dimmers are inserted from the rear. Insert the claws at the top of the dimmer module first and connect to the top of the frame. Push the module up from below and clip the base to the bottom of the frame. It will now hold securely in the plate. Remove any knobs from the dimmer modules before attaching the plate.

    Other PowerGrid modules are inserted from the front. First, slot the base of the module into the bottom of the frame. Next, push at the top of the module and it will click into place.

  3. Make the electrical connections, making sure any bare wires are covered by appropriate sleeving. You can view wiring diagrams in the wiring accessories instructions (PDF) and each grid dimmer's own leaflet.
  4. The grid frames must be earthed using the earth terminals provided.
  5. Screw the grid frames to the wall box using the larger fixing screws supplied with the frames.
  6. Attach the PowerGrid faceplate using the smaller fixing screws provided in a bag with the frames.
  7. Switch on the mains supply.

For the PowerGrid Screwless range, follow the same instructions, but at step 6 you just need to clip the faceplate onto the frame.

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Can I fit a VARILIGHT grid dimmer into another brand's grid plate?

Yes. Our MultiGrid dimmer modules come in white or black with 8 different fascias, for MK, Schneider Ultimate, Schneider Lisse, Crabtree, Hager, Deta, BG and VARILIGHT PowerGrid grid systems. We also offer grid dimmer adaptor packs for each of these makes: they convert any PowerGrid dimmer module for use with that brand's grid.

Product codes for VARILIGHT grid dimmers always begin with a G (e.g. GJP100W for the V-Pro grid dimmer in white). See grid dimmers for the adaptor pack codes.

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Buying

Where to buy, orders, trade buying and bespoke products.

Can you make bespoke or engraved products?

Yes. If you need something special, unusual or bespoke for your project, please contact your VARILIGHT supplier with a description of what you need: for example a twin fused spur on a twin plate, or a number of intermediate switches.

Our engraving service can label switches with a permanent engraving to show their function, such as "Hot Tap" or "Coffee Machine". Some engraved switches are standard products: see the PowerGrid page. More on bespoke products.

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Parts, finishes and care

Knobs and spare parts, product codes and data sheets, finishes, cleaning and decorating.

Which range matches PowerGrid?

The PowerGrid range has the same profile as the Dimension Screwless range and is designed to coordinate with it. The difference between the two ranges is that PowerGrid plates have two small screws in the front to attach the frame (yoke) and the front plate. You can view more examples on the PowerGrid page.

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Guarantee and older products

The lifetime guarantee, how to claim, and help for products we no longer make.

How do I make a guarantee claim or return a faulty product?

Many problems can be solved without a replacement, so please check the troubleshooting answers first. Then:

  1. Submit a guarantee claim, or email our support team at help@varilight.co.uk, with your purchase details and a description of the problem. We'll review it and respond within one working day.
  2. Tell us the product code, the batch number (on the plastic moulding at the back of a dimmer), the type and wattage of the lamps it controls, and the fault. Keep your proof of purchase.
  3. The faulty product must be returned to us. We'll email you a reference number, and you can return the product free of charge through the Royal Mail returns portal, using our returns reference (KILNWOOD) and your reference number.

If the claim is approved, we'll arrange a repair or replacement at no cost to you. See our lifetime guarantee.

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Troubleshooting

Dimmers that have stopped working, flicker, buzz or glow, and other problems with installed products.

Not working, or switching off

My dimmer has stopped working: what should I do?

Many faults can be cleared without replacing anything. Switch off at the mains before touching any wiring and, if in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

  1. Reset the power. Switch the lighting circuit off at the circuit breaker, then back on after a few seconds. An overloaded dimmer switches itself off to protect itself, and touch and remote dimmers can often be reset this way.
  2. Check the load. Add up the wattage of all the lamps on the dimmer (for low voltage lighting, the VA ratings of the transformers). It must not be more than the maximum per gang on the dimmer's label. See how many lamps a dimmer can take.
  3. Changed the bulbs? If you have changed the type of lamp, reset the dimmer to its factory settings: V-Pro and V-Com, V-Pro Multiway, V-Pro Multi-Point, V-Pro Smart, or V-Pro Micro in set up your dimmer.
  4. New installation? Check the wiring against the diagram in the instruction leaflet. A touch or remote dimmer must have a true live connected to its "Live" terminal: it must not be switching neutral.
  5. Lights come on but won't dim? See my dimmer won't dim the lights.

If it still doesn't work, the dimmer may be faulty. It is covered by our lifetime guarantee: see how to make a claim. It helps to have the product code, the batch number (printed on the plastic moulding at the back of the dimmer) and the type and wattage of your lamps to hand.

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My dimmer turns the lights on and off but won't dim them

V-Pro and V-Com dimmers: we would advise you to perform the factory reset on the dimmer switch. Instructions are also in the product instruction leaflet and on VARILIGHT TV. If you have performed the factory reset and the lights are still not dimming, please contact Customer Services: send us a message or email help@varilight.co.uk.

Other dimmers: this problem is usually caused when one of the components in the dimmer has failed, usually due to a plasma. Plasmas can be caused when a mains halogen light bulb (e.g. GU10) fails. For this reason we recommend only using good quality mains halogen bulbs from well-known brands. If a dimmer shows this fault it will need to be replaced.

The best type of dimmer to use with mains halogen bulbs is a VARILIGHT V-Plus series dimmer. The rapid on-board overload protection can usually turn the dimmer off so quickly that it survives a spike in the mains supply.

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Flickering, buzzing and glowing

My LED lights flicker: how do I stop it?

Most flicker can be cured with the dimmer's own settings. On V-Pro and V-Com dimmers:

  • Flicker at low brightness: raise the minimum brightness.
  • Flicker at high brightness: lower the maximum brightness.
  • Flashing at any level: change the dimming mode. Mode 1 suits most LEDs; some perform better in Mode 2 or, in some cases, Mode 3.

Also check that:

  • the lamps are described as dimmable, and are all of the same type: our dimmers are not designed for mixed lighting types on one circuit;
  • on a 2-way circuit, only one of the switches has been replaced with a dimmer, to avoid flicker;
  • if your dimmer has a minimum load (the first figure of the rating on most V-Com and V-Dim dimmers), the lamps add up to more than it: see flicker caused by too little load.

V-Pro Multi-Point, V-Pro Multiway and V-Pro Smart dimmers have the same kind of settings: see setting up and programming.

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Still stuck?

Our customer services team will help. To get the quickest answer, tell us the product code, the batch number from the back of the dimmer, and the make, wattage and number of lamps.