Are dimmer switches meant to buzz when they are on?

Question

I have a dimmer switch in my bedroom. But when it's on it makes a buzzing noise. Is this supposed to happen?

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Answer 1

Old ones do (8 year ) Some get hot and should be replaced, obtain good "known make ones " Crabtree  M.K.   approved.

Answer 2

yes, its normal

Answer 3

Yes they do for some reason.  We have fitted numerous dimmer switches that have all buzzed for some reason.  Don't worry, you are not going to spontaniously combust when you switch on your light!

:)

Answer 4

yes don't worry about it it's normal  

Answer 5

I normally can't hear this buzz, but my wife can. Some people are very receptive to the 60 cycle buzz. This is usually more common in the less expensive dimmers. It is a vibration caused by the current going through the electronic components. I would suggest replacing the dimmer with a higher quality one. Most manufacturers make both high and lower quality products.  

Answer 6

They have a resistor inside them which controls the amount of power grtting to the light, cheaper dimmer switches will buzz when they are on the low end of the settings, they should buzz less when on full power, it's annoying but normal.

Answer 7

Yeah my dimmer switch seems to make a light hum when it's on. I've always wondered why it does that...

Answer 8

Never had one that did, would suggest a poor wiring connection

Answer 9

As with the other answers, I agree..It is normal, though you do get used to it after a short time..It just becomes background noise..

Answer 10

It may be under-loading the dimmer. Check the rating(s) against what you are supplying. Some also buzz when connected to transformer(s), regardless of the total loading.

And again, make sure that the dimmer is of a good brand name.  

Answer 11

Some do, some don't. It's quite normal, so long as it's not loud.

Answer 12

mine does that too, i always wondered that too, they dont do it downstairs so maybe they shouldnt!