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What is a Load Stabiliser and when should you use one?

This article explains what a load stabiliser is, when it is required, and how to correctly wire it into a lighting circuit to ensure reliable operation of your Lightwave device.

What is a Load Stabiliser?

A load stabiliser is a small electrical component used to provide a minimum load on a lighting circuit. This helps smart switches and dimmers operate correctly, particularly when used with low-power lighting circuits (under 10 Watts for Lightwave dimmers without a Neutral connected)

It works by balancing the electrical flow in the circuit, ensuring stable and consistent performance.

When Do You Need a Load Stabiliser?

You may need a load stabiliser in the following situations:

  • Low wattage lighting (Under 10W without a neutral connected to the Lightwave dimmer)
  • Lights flickering or flashing when turned off
  • Lights glow faintly when switched off (Residual Glow)
  • Devices not turning fully off or behaving inconsistently
  • Installations without a neutral wire (if the lighting circuit is under or around 10W)

If your circuit does not meet the minimum load requirements of the device, adding a load stabiliser can help resolve these issues.

How to Wire a Load Stabiliser

⚠️ Important: Always isolate the power before carrying out any electrical work. If unsure, consult a qualified electrician.

A load stabiliser must be wired in parallel with the lighting load, not in series.

Wiring Steps

  1. Identify the switched live and neutral at the light fitting
  2. Connect one wire of the load stabiliser to the switched live
  3. Connect the other wire to the neutral
  4. Ensure all connections are secure and safely enclosed

The stabiliser should always be installed across the light fitting (the load).

Where Should It Be Installed?

  • At the light fitting (recommended)
  • Inside the ceiling rose
  • In a suitable enclosure near the load

Avoid installing the load stabiliser behind the dimmer unless specifically required (you can only install this behind the dimmer if you have a neutral). (If you have a neutral, please connect this to the dimmer as it will solve the problem without the need for the load stabiliser)

Additional Notes

  • Typically, only one load stabiliser is needed per circuit
  • Most commonly used with lighting circuits under 10W with Lightwave dimmers where a Neutral wire is not present at the switch point.