How to Fix a Buzzing Dimmer Switch
We’ll begin by examining the steps to fix the problem of a dimmer switch that is buzzing. We’ll also look into the reason why a dimmer switch is buzzing and what could occur if the issue goes unaddressed.
The first question is what causes a dimmer switch to make a noise?
The humming sound (or maybe a hum) usually occurs as a result of a malfunction in the light bulb, but sometimes in its mechanism.
Although this is usually not an immediate danger (unless the dimmer switch is on which is of course the case this could be a fire hazard) but it can result in more electrical issues within your home such as short circuits and other problems if not checked.
This also increases the chance of getting electroshock. No matter the level of risk, a dimmer that is buzzing must be addressed promptly.
1. Shut Off the Power
The first step is to switch off the power supply on the light circuit before turning off the circuit breaker in question.
To ensure that you’re sure it is advisable to shut off the power at your home. A mistake made here could cause death.
If you are unsure you are unsure, consult professionals. However, in the majority of instances, it’s fine to complete this kind of task on your own.
2. Test the Power
Then, take the screws off of the cover plate prior to taking the plate off of the wall.
Remove the screws for mounting the switch, before carefully pulling off the switch from the box. Make sure you don’t get any wires in the way.
You can then use a non contact voltage tester to ensure that every wire is attached to the switch. This will make sure there isn’t a current flow of electricity.
This additional safety measure is worthwhile since there could be a problem in your circuit board because of the possibility of. It’s all about safer than sorry.
3. Remove the Current Dimmer
Then, you should remove the wire connector from each pair of wires placed at the top of the switch.
It’s also important to separate the two pairs of wires prior to taking out the dimmer switch itself.
Like all aspects of this task, be sure to take care when you take off the dimmer switch so as to ensure that you don’t damage the wiring.
4. Install the New Dimmer
Finally, you must install the new dimmer. Attach the new Dimmer switch to the existing wires by connecting it to the wires that were previously in use and ensuring that the colors are in line with the wires.
Pull the wires gently to ensure that they are properly connected. The wiring may be loose, which is a typical reason for faulty dimmer switches to develop, and there may be safety issues as well.
The wires should be inserted into the wall then turn the power off and turn off the dimmer switch, making sure that it’s functioning.
Changing Light Bulbs
Sometimes, the problem can be solved by simply replacing the bulbs. In this article we’ll take a look at the reasons why this might occur and the procedure involved in replacing the light bulbs.
Turn off the power, as described in the ‘fixing buzzing in a dimmer switch section.
The solution to switch light bulbs can differ from bulb to but generally being, the answer is straightforward and pretty much identical.
Switch off the power and then flip the dimmer switch and check if, with the light bulb turned on the dimmer switch is still making a buzzing sound.
If this isn’t the scenario, then you’ve found the solution (assuming that the issue isn’t intermittent). If not, it’s best to change the dimming switch.
When selecting new bulbs for lighting It is important to consider which options are most beneficial, regardless of whether it is in relation to the brightness of the bulbs as well as their effectiveness, as an example.
The most efficient lighting bulbs will not only help you save money by reducing your electric bills However, they also are more sustainable.
In terms of quality, the expected lifespan of light bulbs may differ greatly.
It’s worthwhile to research some of the top brands available so you can select the most effective choices.
This will help you avoid any hassle and will extend the time it takes before it becomes required to install new bulbs for the light bulb.
Dimmer Rating Upgrade
It’s possible that you’ve got the wrong kind of dimmer switch. In this situation there’s a chance that when you replace the dimmer switch with an identical or similar kind or switch the issue is likely to persist.
In this instance you might need to improve the dimmer’s rating. Let’s review this method.
It’s crucial that your dimmer switch is fitted with the right power. For a single circuit, you need to install the 150 watt rated Dimmer.
If you’re looking for three bulbs with a 100-watt rating you’ll want a dimmer with minimum 350 Watts.
Here’s a great calculation that can be applied to:
No. in lighting fixture x Wattage of each bulb 1.25 = Wattage per bulb 1.25 = Wattage Dimmer option
In the present, it is recommended to select a rating that is higher than the wattage dimming response you get. Let’s take a look at an illustration:
6-light bulbs 60-watts 1.25 = 450 watts dimming
It is recommended to choose a dimmer that has an wattage rating of 450 watts or, at a minimum, greater. The advantages of choosing an appropriate dimmer switch on its wattage rating are the fact that it’s less likely to cause an over-voltage, and also the possibility of a dimmer’s being a source of heat or buzzing will be lessened.
It improves overall safety and reduce the possibility of fire.
Dimmer Switch Replacement
Removing a dimmer is usually the solution to fix the issue, as explained in the prior section.
Before assuming that the identical rated dimmer switch is installed You should check the amount of watts that light bulbs draw and then confirm.
Utilise the formula from the earlier section (No. of light fixtures per watt of each bulb * 1.25) to figure out precisely the rating/wattage that the dimmer switch must have.
This way, you’ll be able to be sure that you’re going to put a new dimming switch on your home which you may need to replace in a brief period of time.
Removing a dimmer, regardless of whether you believe it should be replaced or not, is often the only solution to fix the problem of a buzzing light switch.
You can accomplish this via DIY, but like we said, it’s important to adhere to the appropriate security measures (e.g. shutting off the power properly).
If you’re unsure you are unsure, you should hire an expert. This type of work is complex and requires precise action. There are safety issues to consider.
Lower Wattage Bulbs
Instead of increasing the dimmer switch’s rating, you could, in fact, put in lower-watt bulbs instead. This may be advantageous in many ways.
In the first place, it could help you save on energy costs and also reduce the carbon footprint. Lights with lower watts are more common in recent years.
If you are replacing bulbs with light bulbs with different wattages It is essential to be aware of the procedure.
Do not plug a bulb with a higher wattage into a socket with lower-wattage.
The reason is that it’s unstable, resulting in more current flowing through the socket it is able to handle. This is dangerous and could even trigger an explosion.
But, putting a lower wattage bulb into a socket having one with a higher wattage is usually secure.
In this instance you should follow the instructions in the “changing light bulbs” section. If you don’t, engage an expert.
It’s not the case that you’re required for replace the socket with a more powerful option. Also, only take on this project if you’re confident about the task.
Electrician Cost
It is possible to employ an electrician for the task or legally, you might need to, based on the amount of work required. The cost for hiring electricians across the UK is £30 to £40 per hour for labour costs.
For an electrician to change a dimmer light will cost around £30 to £70 for a typical light switch replacement that has the price that ranges from £30 to £60 typically.
Of course the more bulbs you’ve changed, the more it will cost. The potential for additional expenses you might be liable for, such as having to replace the socket.
The cost of electricians’ labour differs greatly, with the highest cost typically found in London as well as the southeast. There are also the cheapest prices found in northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
For a few particular examples costs range from £26 up to £30 per hour for hiring for Doncaster, Newport, or St. Helens. Costs for labour range from £30 or £38 an hour for Leeds, Falkirk, and Norwich.
The most expensive costs are those that are found in London where electricians charge approximately £45 up to £50 an hour within the capital city. Similar rates for labour are found in areas such as Elmbridge.
FAQs
Q: Is a buzzing dimming switch dangerous?
A: Though it may or may not be dangerous, this issue is risky and could pose a serious hazard. For instance, if left unchecked, this problem could lead to a problem and may even cause a fire.
For that reason, the issue should be dealt with as soon as possible. Replacing the light bulb may be the answer.
However, a lower wattage bulb or a more highly rated dimmer switch may be necessary if there is an issue in relation to the power consumption of the light bulb from the dimmer switch.
All in all, this is a problem you want to fix straightaway.
Q: Can a buzzing dimmer switch occur with LED lights?
A: Yes, this can happen, and it is usually a result of the driver of an LED being incompatible with the dimmer. In this case, you may need a CL dimmer instead of an ELV dimmer.
Q: How much does a new dimmer switch cost to buy?
A: As for the supply cost alone (so assuming you’re not hiring a professional for the installation), this is about £10 to £20.
Q: What does it mean if the sound is more of a hum than a buzz?
A: If you find that there’s a humming sound coming from your dimmer switch instead of a buzzing sound, this probably means that the switch is simply worn down, is not able to deal with the voltage, or it’s a cheap, insufficient product.
These are, of course, similar reasons to why a dimmer switch might buzz.
Q: How long does a dimmer switch last?
A: You could hope for a good dimmer switch to last for a decade or more, but they could go a lot sooner for plenty of reasons, ranging from bad luck to an incorrect installation to the product simply being poor.
Of course, the additional reasons highlighted in this article (such as those relating to wattage) could cause a dimmer switch to go bad.
Thankfully, most homeowners continue to turn a dimmer switch on and off for well over a decade and, sometimes, multiple decades.
