We installed a 12V Dimmer Switch for the recessed ceiling-mounted LED Puck Lights in our van. While we have been using the LED Lighting in our van for a while now, they are so bright. At times, too bright. Now, this is great when you need lots of light, for tasks like cooking, reading, or playing games. The rest of the time, using a dimmer switch makes the lighting way more functional. 
Installing a 12V LED Dimmer Switch In Our Van
See this project completed in 30 seconds. Shorts Reel Video. Scroll Down 👇
Van LED Lights
Check out this detailed write-up on how we install our van LED Lights. We answer all the most common questions about LED lights for use in van conversions as well as help with wiring instructions with a simple wiring diagram.
Benefits Of Using A Dimmer Switch With 12V LED Lights
- Use Less Power
Stress less about your battery levels. A dimmer switch can reduce your energy consumption with a quick turn of a dial.
- Added Ambiance
Dim the lights to set the mood. Or crank the dial to see better, with this easy-to-add functionality.
- Extend Lifespan of LED Lights
Dimming your lights will also add to their lifespan.
Design Thinking
Some ideas we thought about before, during, and after installing our 12v LED Dimmer Switch.
Location
Ideally, I would have liked to install the dimmer in our small panel behind the driver’s seat. Because the switch uses both the positive and negative wiring this would have required running a new negative wire. So, to cut down on the install time as well as materials, I chose to install above the side door.
Choosing The Right 12 Volt Dimmer Switch For Use In A Van Conversion Or RV
A conventional household style dimmer will not work with 12v LED Lighting in a van. We looked for a PMW Dimmer Controller like the ones listed below. The main drivers for our choice were size and functionality,
Facon 12 Volt DC Touch Dimmer Switch
The Facon Dimmer has an included mounting plate that makes it easy to install but we looked elsewhere because of the hold-to-dim Dimmer. I prefer the rotary style.
Acegoo 12V Dimmer Switch
On the larger side, the Acegoo dimmer option would be good to install when space constraints are not a problem. This is too large to fit in the small upper panel.
The Best 12v Dimmer Switch For LED Lights
Our Choice – ALOVECO 12 Volt DC Dimmer Switch PWM
All of these Dimmer Controller Switches are great choices when dimming LED Lights in a 12v Van Conversion install. We went with the ALOVECO 12 Volt DC Dimmer Switch. It is affordable, easy to install, and most importantly for our situation very small!
Wiring Diagram
Wiring can get confusing sometimes. We made this diagram to refer to if we got stuck. The Diagram includes 3-way Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switches for useful “hallway switching” on both sides of the van.
12V LED Light Dimmer Switch Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a dimmer on 12V LED lights? Yes, 12v LED Lights can be used with the appropriate dimmer switch.
How do you dim 12 volt LED lights? An LED Dimmer wired between the 12v power supply and 12v LED Lights will give the ability to dim.
Why do LED lights flicker on a dimmer? Flickering can happen when using an incompatible dimmer switch. Look to your manufacturer’s specifications to find the best dimmer switch for your situation.
Now Let’s Get To The Fun Part – Installing a Dimmer Switch for the LED Lights in Our Van Conversion.
The Tools
- Multi-Bit Screwdriver
- Long Nose Pliers
- Precision Utility Cutting Knife
- Battery Drill
- Drill Bits
- Forstner Bit
- Automatic Wire Stripping Tool
- Electrician’s Terminal Crimp Pliers
The Parts and Materials
- Aloveco LED Dimmer
- 16 Gauge Wire (Red and Black)
- ¼” Split Loom Cable Wrap
- Fork Terminals
- Fully Insulated Spade Quick Connectors
The How To – Installing a 12V LED Dimmer Switch In Our Van
Step-1 Removing Panels To Access Wiring
- The panels are held in place with ¼-20 Riv-Nuts, ¼”-20×1” Countersunk Screws and Finishing Washers. Accessing the Fuse Panel and light circuits wiring is as easy as removing a few screws.
Step-2 Pull Wire, Connect, And Test
- Using 16 gauge wire in black and red. We ran new positive and negative power supply wires to the planned dimmer location.
- There are a lot of sharp edges within the walls and cavities. To prevent any possible short circuits caused by compromised insulation, all of our electrical wiring is covered with Split Loom Cable Wrap.
- The fuse terminals are connected using Fork Crimp Terminals and the dimmer itself is connected using Fully Insulated Spade Quick Connectors
Step-3 Install Dimmer Switch Into Panel
- We marked and drilled the location with a small drill bit.
- Next, using a 1” Forstner Bit we drilled out the mounting location to make it thin enough to install the Dimmer.
Step-4 Reinstall All Panels
- All panels are reinstalled and the dimmer is ready to go
Twisting The Dial On Our New 12V LED Dimmer Switch
This slimline and low-profile 12v LED Dimmer works flawlessly with our van’s recessed ceiling-mounted LED lights. I wish I had gotten around to this project sooner. So much better!
More From Weekender Van Life
Gasoline Parking Heater
Van Roof Vent Fan
12v Auxiliary Power Systems
- DIY Portable Solar Generator
- Van Battery Bank Install
- DC-DC Charger
- Renogy 500A 12V Battery Monitor Install
- Van Electrical System
Lastly, if you have any questions, post a comment below, we would be happy to help.
Thanks for reading, and remember to always take the road less traveled!
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