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	Subject - max lights per dimmer wireman I have noticed that the more lights that are put on one dimmer switch the hotter it gets. I was wondering if there is a maximum number of ligts that should be on any one dimmer switch. thanks for all replies. JimmyDee Most of the ones I've seen allow 600 watt total max. I have seen larger ones but don't remember their rating. Jim ecarbine I think you can get a 1000 watt or even a 1500 watt dimmer but the aluminum cooling fins make it much larger that a regular switch or a lower rated dimmer. They are made to mount in a single gang box but the fins stick out of the wall about 1/2" andd are around 4" square. wireman So If I wanted to install 10 cans with 60 watt bulbs I should install a 1000 watt dimmer or is a dimmer rated for 600 watts OK? I'd rather stay on the safe side. You know how people like to put 100 watt bulbs in fixtures rated for 60. Most people don't give it a second thought. ecarbine Those 100 watt dimmers are unsightly, I think you would have a hard time selling them to a homeowner. I have installed them in restaurants before, but i wouldn't want to look at one in my house. ecarbine sorry, of course I am talking about 1000 watt dimmers not 100 watt kbsparky If your total connected load approaches the maximum rating on the dimmer, it is best to use a higher-rated dimmer. I've seen many so-called "600 watt" dimmers lose it with 475 or 500 watt loads. The newer 1000 watt dimmers look exactly the same as the 600 watt ones. They just have heavier-rated "guts" in them to handle the extra load. (As well as heftier price tags) Here is a tip to make dimmers last longer: Use a METAL cover plate, to help dissapate the heat better than a plastic one! Pierre Belarge Don't forget if the dimmer(s) are installed in multigang situations, that there is a derating of the dimmer's capacity as marked in the installation instructions. Pierre wireman Thanks I'll use the new 1000 watt dimmer, Even though more expensive it's better (and more cost effective)than replacing one.