Lights are a buzzing?

Question

My hubby put in a dimmer switch today and now my lights buzz when I turn them on. Any ideas what might be causing this?

Answer 1

If they are fluorescent, there may be a problem.  Most dimmers are not designed for them.

Answer 2

fif luorescent, there may be a problem

Answer 3

Some dimmer switches are noisier than others.  If this is not fluorescent, try a different brand dimmer switch.  If they are fluorescent bulbs, make sure the dimmer switch is compatible with the bulbs and they are the proper type to use with a dimmer switch.  You have to buy a special bulb and special dimmer switch to dim CFL bulbs.

Answer 4

They buzz because a dimmer switch is inherently noisy. Usually a silicon controlled rectifier or a triac  which  controls the on/off time of the bulbs- intensity. A sine wave(A.C.)is smooth but when it's switched, it becomes a noisy little brat.