Dimmer switch w/extractor fan in bathroom

I'm wanting to install a dimmer switch in my
bathroom.
Hi guys
At the moment I have one gang switch which turns on
the lights and extractor fan simultaniously.

If I fit a dimmer, will I be able to turn down the
lights without it effecting the fan?????

Second question, I've noticed on the new dimmer
fitting it has no earth connector. It's made from
plastic. So what do I do with the earth wire?

Does this get connected to a point in the box?
Cheers!!


The incoming earth goes to the box (metal back box), regarding the dimmer option, you cannot fit a dimmer if the light switch controls the fan..

 

If you insist on having a dimmer switch you will have to wire the fan independant of the light with either another light switch or pullcord. If the fan has a timer then a neon pullcord would be suffice.

 

Dimmer switches work by reducing the voltage to the lights to dim them. LV fans normally need no less than 220volts to be able to function.

Dunno if an SELV fan might work though?

 

Thanks for that.

Incidentally why is that?
Does it have something to do with the flow of the
current? If you reduce it, the fan wont start etc...?


Yes it effects the current (reduces)..;-)

 

Reckon if you supply the fan via a dimmer switch the decreasing voltage will increase amperage (proportional to the voltage decrease) with the ultimate consequence of burnt out synchronous windings.

 

Just done this at home, and with some help from this forum, it works a treat. I had a 2 gang dimmer, took one side out and replaced with a dummy, which just pushes on and off. Lights dim, fan doesn't. Fab.

 

Just done this at home, and with some help from this
forum, it works a treat. I had a 2 gang dimmer, took
one side out and replaced with a dummy, which just
pushes on and off. Lights dim, fan doesn't. Fab.


Nice..;-)

 

Did this work today with a timed fan didn't even give it a thought before i did it,
works great romantic baths apperantly

 

U NEED 2 FIT A GRID SWITCH DIMMER WITH A BYPASS ON IT ....BUT U MUST WIRE FROM THE FAN TO THE SWITCH FOR THE BYPASS TO WORK .....U WILL GET A 400W DIMMER FOR C E F