Can a 1960s style spin knob dimmer switch be safely replaced with a ceiling fan light combo without having to switch to a simple on/off switch?
Asked by Valtteri Jarvi 
2 months ago
Last Updated: September 30, 2024
What’s the best way to swap out a dimmer ceiling light for a ceiling fan/light combo? Do we need to switch out the switch too? Ours is an old-school spin knob from the 1960s.
Originally, we had a pendant light over the stairs. But we’re thinking of installing a fan light instead. Can we make the switch without any issues, and keep the current dimmer switch as an on/off switch? Or do we need to switch it to a standard on/off switch? Is it as straightforward as it sounds?
The switch itself should stay the same, but be sure to add a fan brace box for extra support with the fan’s weight
Actually, they call it a reinforced box. If you happen to get the one employee at the store who isn’t familiar with it, you might end up with the incorrect item
When it comes to ceiling fans, remember that you can’t use a dimmer switch. If you have modern LED lights, you’ll need a specific LED dimmer switch and dimmable bulbs. It’s a different technology altogether.
Make sure the junction box is labeled for use with ceiling fans.