Estimating the Max Load on a DVLV-603P

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnW

When I look at the spec sheet for the DVLV-603P (Magnetic Low Voltage) the max load on the single pole or 3-way is 450W or 600VA. Is it safe to assume this should be calculated using 120V and not the low voltage wattage?My goal is to determine what my max load is in amps, since I am using a 12V magnetic power supply, I believe the equation is: 450W ÷ 120V = 3.75 amps. What this tells me is I can use three, 1 amp power supplies on this dimmer switch.If I want to control more amps I can switch to the DVLV-103P at 800W max load. This should give me: 800W ÷120V = 6.66 amps. Six, 1 amp power supplies on this dimmer switch.Is my math right? Is my thinking right?Is there a higher wattage dimmer switch available.Thanks!

The dimmer operates on the line voltage side so always use 120v. Even if your actual voltage is 125v use 120v for calculations. You could also do the reverse: 1a x 120v = 120w.

Magnetic transformers consume a significant amount of power. 20% is the rule of thumb. That is the difference between the 600va and 450w rating. I know the math doesn't work exactly but that is the theory. So... make sure you account for the transformer as a load. I don't know if your 1 amp rating includes the transformer.

The Nova T has a 1500w MLV dimmer. It's a different look and I believe it requires 2-gangs.

Lutron makes power boosters than can control up to 2000w. See the PHPM boosters.