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When your light switch buzzes or behaves abnormally, hire a professional electrician for a safety inspection and potential replacement. You don’t want to put your home at risk of dangerous hazards such as an electric fire.
But why is my light switch buzzing? you may wonder, as you try to uncover the anomaly and contemplate a noise from light switch investigation.
As professional electricians in Plymouth, MA, the Crowe Electric crew delves deeper into the causes of buzzing light switches and how to address the issue.
What Causes Light Switches to Make Buzzing Noises?
Various electrical issues can cause the light switches in your Plymouth home to make buzzing noises. The most common culprits include:
Light Bulb and Switch Incompatibility
Pairing your light switch with an incompatible bulb may result in buzzing. For example, light switches designed for incandescent bulbs may flicker or buzz when paired with modern LED light bulbs.
High Bulb Wattage
When a light switch can’t accommodate the wattage required by the bulbs it controls, it may start buzzing. This often occurs when a light switch connects to too many bulbs, potentially straining the system. When the switch tries to accommodate the high wattage, it can’t, hence the buzzing sound.
Insecure Wires
A mere loose wire can also cause your light switch to buzz. Hiring an expert to inspect and secure the connection should solve the problem. You could also hire a Plymouth electrician to inspect your home’s wiring and determine if you could benefit from an upgrade.
Arcing
Electrical arcing, a serious cause of buzzing light switches, happens when the electrical current transfers over an air gap within the circuit and causes a spark. This often occurs because of voltage imbalances or loose wiring.
Wear and Tear
Like most things, your light switches have an expected useful life beyond which replacement becomes necessary. Daily use can deteriorate your light switches and compromise their functionality. If you hear your light switch buzzing and it’s nearing the end of its lifespan, replace it with a modern light switch.
Overloads
Why is my light switch buzzing? A circuit overload can overwhelm the system and cause your light switch to buzz. Potential remedies for this issue include upgrading the affected switch to a higher amperage or installing more switches for your lighting fixtures.
Symptoms of a Malfunctioning Light Switch
The average light switch can last several decades. So, how do you know when to replace it? Besides buzzing, keep an eye and ear out for the following warning signs of a light switch that needs replacing:
- Flickering lights: A dying or faulty switch will sometimes cause power to flicker and sputter.
- Electrical Sparks: A light switch should never spark. If it does, call a certified electrician right away.
- Snapping, popping, or crackling: Don’t hesitate to call an electrician to check your light switch if it makes any noise besides the subtle click when you turn it on and off.
- Excess heat: If your light switch feels warm to the touch, it could have a malfunction that warrants a replacement. However, dimmer switches will often get warm because of their design, but the switch shouldn’t feel hot.
- Scorch marks: Overheating or a big spark may result in smoking or discoloration on your light switch. If you notice scorch marks on your light switch, take it as a sign to replace it as soon as possible.
If you sense anything out of the ordinary with your light switches, contact your local electrician to check it out. Ultimately, identifying buzzing light switch problems makes it easier to act fast and avoid a potential disaster.
Hire a Certified Plymouth Electrician
As a DIY enthusiast, you may succumb to the temptation of fixing noisy light switches yourself. While there’s no harm in troubleshooting buzzing light switches, you want to let a certified electrician determine the best electrical switch buzzing solutions.
Contact Crowe Electric for High-Quality Electrical Services in Plymouth, Massachusetts
Now that you can answer the question, “Why is my light switch buzzing?” don’t wait for things to deteriorate before seeking help.
Find an expert electrician like Crowe Electric to check your lighting and provide lasting solutions designed to ensure you have reliable electrical systems throughout your Plymouth home. We can handle all your electrical needs, from indoor lighting installation to electrical panel repair and replacement.
Call Crowe Electric at (781) 678-8266 to schedule electric service in or around Plymouth, Massachusetts. Reach out any time for emergency services.
