I just installed a new dimmer switch (Lutron Skylark (SCL-153PH-WH)) in my dining room. The previous switch was a single pole dimmer switch that would turn on the lights on immediately when switched on. The new switch is a one or two pole dimmer switch. I found that there was only a red and orange wire in the box to connect to the red and black wires on the new switch. I connected red to red and black to orange. It has a one second delay when the light is turned on. Now I wonder if I have mis-wired it or if I have a faulty switch. Any ideas on why this is occurring and how to correct the lag so it is instant on?
Electrical – Why is there a one second delay before the lights turn on with this new dimmer switch
dimmer-switchelectrical
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From what you've described, this is what I think you're wiring should look like. Keep in mind, this is just a guess. I can't see what's going on, and I'm an internet away, so I can't touch/measure/test anything.
The wiring diagram for the switch, can be found in the installation instructions.
If you provide images, and/or a better description of what wires and cables are in each box. I'll be able to provide a better guess, as to how this should be wired.
NOTE:
The diagram is based on your description, and is my best guess as to what your wiring looks like. If you're not sure what to do, or feel like this project is over your head. Do not hesitate to contact a local licensed Electrician.
The loop in the black wire is normal when electricians are running a hot wire from device to device. It saves them time and is really safer since it involves fewer wire nuts.
The orange wire is the wire that is going to the light. The power enters the switch where the black wire is looped over the screw, and exits to the light through the orange wire.
Yes, attach the green wire to the green screw. But, you need to wire the blacks from the switch differently. One switch black is for the incoming power, and the other is for the exiting power. So, one needs to be connected to the same black that is connected to the old switch; and one needs to be connected to the orange.
I would, with the power off at the circuit breaker panel, and after testing to make sure the black at the switch is not hot, cut the existing black to form two separate wires and strip the ends appropriately. Then I would connect one of the black wires from the new switch to these two wires with a wire nut. After that, connect the other black for the new switch to the orange with a wire nut. That should do it, and your dimmer should now work. Good luck, and be careful!
PS: I personally use a Fluke 1AC-A1-II Volt-Alert AC Non-Contact Voltage Tester to verify or locate hot wires and love it. You might want to check it out for the future. Its inexpensive too. Note: I have no personal connection to Fluke; I just think good products like this are worth spreading the word about.
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Best Answer
You are right HandyMan - I called Lutron and it turns out there is a micro processor in this model which allows it to work well with led bulbs which causes this delay. It is not defective nor the wiring. They said they have a newer version of a similar model called the Diva, which has no delay when turning on the light. They said that there is a newer model of the Skylark coming out soon too which will eliminate the delay. Thank you all for your help with this question! :)