Question – Dimmer Switches Can Cause Bulbs to Hum

The humming you hear is actually the bulb filament vibrating.

What is causing my lamps to hum in the fixture?

The humming you hear is actually the bulb filament vibrating. This is caused by the dimmer switch, but certain bulbs can contribute to the problem. Dimmers work by cutting the power to the bulb on and off at a high frequency. This causes the bulb filament vibrate.
So what are your options?
Try one of the following: Rough Service 130 volt bulbs have heavier supports for the filaments. Consider using fluorescent bulbs that can be dimmed. They will not hum because they do not have traditional filaments. Upgrade your dimmer. Inexpensive dimmers do not have the internal devices to correct this problem. High-end dimmers contain inductor chokes and interference capacitors to smooth out the electricity.

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring. Important: Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

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