Circuit arrangement for limiting the switching current of an electrical load

The circuit arrangement limits the switching current of an electric load (12) such as an electric motor. The power consumption of the load is controlled by means of a triac (10). The triac is connected in series with the electric load (12). A diac (9) is connected to the control terminal of the triac (10). The diac (9) is connected in series with a resistor arrangement (5, 6, 7) whose value is variable to control the triac. The triac (10) can be disconnected from the mains terminal by means of a first switch (3). A second switch (4) is provided. This disconnects the series connection of the resistor arrangement and the diac from the mains terminal. When the electric load is switched on, the first switch (3) is closed and, then, after a delay (t3, t4), the second switch (4) is closed, or vice versa.