Buzzing dimmer switch

[HeyMacWey]

It's really loud when the light is turned full on.
Not sure how old the switch is - prob about 15 years.
If I replace it will it stop buzzing or is it just one of those things that happens with dimmer switches?

[GinGinGin]

Mine buzzes too, but generally only when it's on a low dim. Just thought it was one of those things!

[whattaway]

Got one too, on low dim buzzes.

[CheeseBadger]

What sort of bulbs are you using with it? Has the buzzing started since you changed to this type of bulb? I assume you're not still using incandescent bulbs, but that you were 15 years ago...

[mumhum]

You probably don't have the right bulb, change it to one which says it is definitely for dimmer switches

[HeyMacWey]

Definitely a dimmer bulb - brand new today.
It's always buzzed iirc but it seems extra loud now - haven't used it really as previously it had an energy efficient bulb so didn't work with the dimmer switch.

[CheeseBadger]

I believe some bulbs are worse than others, and the noise can depend on whether the switch is dimming by varying voltage or duty cycle. If it's a duty cycle dimmer and the buzz is coming from the switch, I'd try replacing the switch. Less drastically, you could see if a different brand of bulb helps.

[CheeseBadger]

Sort of related article here.

[icingonthewall]

I think they DO buzz, which is one of the reasons we don't have them (they're also very very energy inefficient...)

[PigletJohn]

"Definitely a dimmer bulb - brand new today. "

Do you mean a dimmable LED, or do you mean an incandescent bulb with a filament?

[HeyMacWey]

Dimmable led

[PigletJohn]

A dimmable LED is unlikely to be compatible with a 15-year-old dimmer that was designed for use with incandescent lights.

[PigletJohn]

One of these probably is
www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Main_Index/Lighting_Menu_Index/Wiring_Accessories~Dimmers_All/VL_Dimmers_White_J/index.html

I don't know enough about LED dimming. The maker of the lamp and the dimmer may mention what type they are.

[HeyMacWey]

Thank you - I'll do some research over the weekend.

[MrsBungle]

Mine does this. I was so concerned I called an electrician. He told me they are meant to buzz a bit, I can't remember exactly what he said but he said totally safe.

[SixFeetUnder]

Have just asked my electrician husband for you and he says that it could mean the switch is on it's way out and needs replaced. Something to do with a coil inside or something. So if you've had the switch a while might be worthwhile replacing it.

[HeyMacWey]

Great - thank you - I'll find a replacement to be on the safe side!

[brumeye]

We did a lot of research into dimmers for our recent extension. Went for Varilight V-pro which is designed specifically for dimmable LED; they work perfectly for us and there's no buzzing at all.