When you turn on a light and notice a humming or buzzing sound, you may become concerned. The source of the noise can vary. Some issues are more dangerous than others and need an electrician to take a look. Here are a few reasons why your lights make a buzzing or humming sound.
The Type of Bulb You’re Using
There are certain kinds of light bulbs that can produce a slight buzz or hum when they are on. Filament vibrations cause this when the metal filament heats up and expands. This is common in incandescent and halogen bulbs.
The Use of LED Lights
Electromagnetic interference can cause vibrations in the internal electronics of an LED driver and dimmer switch. This vibration can produce a buzzing sound. You will hear a buzzing or humming sound more often if you use an older style of dimmer switch designed for resistive loads. Voltage can become distorted and produce a buzzing sound.
Common Fluorescent Lighting Sounds
If there are malfunctioning or aging ballasts inside your fluorescent lights, a humming sound may occur. This is because of resonation. This is less common in residential homes but may occur in areas like your garage or workshop.
Loose Connections and Fixtures
If there are any loose connections inside your light fixture or to the fixture, this can cause components to vibrate or hum. This can include screws that are holding the fixture on. Even a loose bulb can produce a buzzing or humming noise. Check to see if you have tightened everything and used the appropriate hardware for the installation.
Power Supply or Electrical Issues
If there are any issues with wiring to your fixtures, you may notice abnormal sounds. This is more common in older homes. You should schedule an electrical inspection to ensure all wiring in your home is safe, functional, and quiet. Electrical issues can pose a safety threat, increase your risk of a house fire, and cause electrocution. It’s always a good idea to schedule professional repair as soon as you notice a problem occurring.
Fixture Design Flaws
Certain styles of light fixtures may experience acoustic resonance. The shape and size of the fixture can amplify any vibrations or issues inside the fixture. What would usually be a quiet sound turns into a loud hum or buzz. You may need to change the fixture to remove the noise.
If you’re dealing with lights that buzz or hum when they are on, an inspection may be necessary. Reach out to our team at JD Ensz Electric, Inc. in Hesperia, CA, for more information about lighting support.