If you’re wondering why your dimmer switch is still buzzing, it may be that it is rated too low for the task, and is being overtaxed by the combined bulb wattage. Try taking a few bulbs out of the switch circuit and see if it reduces the buzzing.
Why does my dimmer switch make a buzzing noise?
Dimmer switches do make a slight buzzing sound due to the interruptions to the electromagnetic field that naturally exists around a live wire. A buzzing sound from the switch is usually not dangerous, unless accompanied by a hot switch or a crackling noise.
Why is my light switch making a buzzing noise?
When a switch begins to buzz audibly, it means that the current between the metal wire contacts inside the switch is arcing—jumping the gap between metal parts rather than flowing continuously through metal pathways.
Can a buzzing light switch cause a fire?
Jumping Electricity
Under normal circumstances that charge should just flow through continuously from one piece to the other, telling the lights to turn on or off. With the electrical charge just floating around in there, it’s the perfect recipe for a fire.
How do you fix a buzzing light switch?
Instructions
- Turn off Switch and Remove Bulb. Turn off the power to the light fixture at the switch. …
- Change Bulb for Lower Wattage Bulb. …
- Change Bulb for Rough Service Bulb. …
- Shut Down Power at Circuit Breaker. …
- Access Dimmer Switch. …
- Replace Dimmer Switch.
How do I stop my LED dimmer from buzzing?
If you’re using a dimmer that is recommended by the manufacturer for your LED lights and all of the lights on the circuit still buzz, you only have two options. Option 1 – Remove the dimmer switch and replace it with a standard on/off switch. Option 2 – Replace the LED lights with a different model.
What happens if you put a non dimmable LED bulb in a dimmer?
If you install a non-dimming LED bulb in a circuit with a dimming switch, it will likely operate normally if the dimmer is at its 100% or fully on. Dimming the bulb, will likely cause erratic behavior such as flickering or buzzing and ultimately may cause damage to the bulb.
Are dimmer switches safe?
So, although it is mostly safe to leave a dimmer on low, it is essential to ensure that the light bulb itself is not surrounded by something that can catch fire. Another aspect to keep in mind is that dimmer switches can be a fire hazard if you put too much load on the circuit.
