What is the function of a dimmer switch?

A dimmer switch primarily functions to control the brightness of lighting fixtures. This is achieved by adjusting the amount of electricity flowing to the light source. By varying the power supplied, dimmers allow users to set their desired level of illumination, whether they want a bright environment for tasks or a softer light for ambiance.

While dimmer switches do indeed have an impact on energy consumption since lower brightness often leads to reduced power usage, their primary purpose is not explicitly energy savings but rather the adjustment of light intensity. Similarly, while operating at lower brightness can theoretically extend the life of incandescent light bulbs by minimizing heat production, this is not their main function or design intent. The role of simply turning lights on and off is a basic function of traditional switches and does not encompass the primary purpose of a dimmer switch.