Why Do My Lights Buzz or Hum?

A light that buzzes or hums is annoying, and it is usually trying to tell you something. Most of the time it is a simple mismatch between the bulb and the fixture or dimmer. Sometimes it points to a connection worth checking. Here is how to sort out which is which.

Bulbs and dimmers that do not match

The most common cause is a dimmer paired with bulbs it was not designed for. Many older dimmers were made for incandescent bulbs, and when you put in LED bulbs, the two can buzz. The fix is often a dimmer rated for LED, or bulbs marked dimmable and compatible. This is a small change that solves most buzzing.

The bulb itself

Some bulbs simply hum, especially cheaper LED or fluorescent ones. Trying a different, better quality bulb is a quick test. If the noise follows the bulb to another fixture, the bulb is the culprit.

Fixtures and ballasts

Older fluorescent fixtures have a part called a ballast that can hum as it ages. If a fluorescent fixture buzzes and flickers, the ballast may be near the end of its life, and replacing the fixture with LED usually solves it for good.

When it is worth a closer look

Most buzzing is harmless bulb or dimmer noise. A few situations deserve a call. If the buzzing comes from the switch or the wall rather than the fixture, if it is paired with warmth at the switch or outlet, or if it started suddenly across several fixtures, those can point to a loose connection, which is worth having checked.

We can track it down

If a bulb or dimmer swap does not quiet things down, or the noise is coming from the wall, we can find the cause and fix it. We serve Hayden, Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Rathdrum, Dalton Gardens, Liberty Lake, and Spokane Valley. Call or text 208-352-0662 and we will help you feel safe and informed.