Why Is My Light Switch Buzzing?

Why is my light switch buzzing? This is a common question our electricians hear from customers. If you’re concerned about the noise, you have every right to be since it’s usually caused by a problem that requires immediate attention from a certified electrician.

If you’re looking for the top electrician in Butner, NC, contact Tech-On-Deck Heating, Air & Electric. Keep reading to learn why your light switch is buzzing, and then give us a call to repair it.

Circuit Overloads Could Be Why Your Light Switch Is Buzzing

One of the most common reasons your light switch may start buzzing is due to an electrical overload, meaning the switch has too much electricity going to it. Dimmer switches are prone to this problem.

The easiest way to rectify this issue is to upgrade the switch so it can handle more electricity. You can also install a second switch so the power is split between two switches.

Giving Out From Wear and Tear

If you’re asking, “Why is my light switch buzzing?” and the switch has been around for a couple of decades, it’s likely due to wear and tear. Most light switches will last about 20 years before they start giving out. If wear and tear is the issue, you may notice other problems, such as:

• Flickering lights
• Malfunctioning switches
• Lights hesitate to come on or turn of
• Warm or cracked switch plate

Loose Wires Make Light Switches Buzz

Buzzing sounds can sometimes be caused by loose wiring behind the switch plate. Turn off the power to prevent electrical fires and call an electrician to safely correct the problem. Unless the loose wires were caused by a bigger underlying problem, they don’t take electricians long to repair.

Electrical Arcing Is a Fire Hazard

Electrical arcing is when the current hits an air gap and creates a spark. This often occurs due to a voltage imbalance or loose wiring.

Arcing is often grounds for emergency electrical services since an electrical fire is a possibility. Turn off the power from the circuit board and call an electrician to schedule a repair as soon as possible.

The Bulb Has High Wattage

Another common answer to “Why is my light switch buzzing?” is that the lightbulb wattage is too high. This is common if you upgrade to a new type of lightbulb or if you add new lights that are controlled from the same switch. An electrician can help you find balance in the circuit to avoid high bulb wattage.

Old Light Switches Buzz with New Light Bulbs

You may not consider switch compatibility when you choose new lights or replace an old switch. If your home has been around a while with its original light switches, it may not be able to handle the latest lightbulb technology. Choosing the correct lightbulb wattage is the easiest way to solve this problem.

If you don’t know the proper wattage for your light switch, have an electrician inspect your switches and lights to determine what is safe for your home. You may want to opt for a brand-new switch that can handle the lightbulbs you’d like to use, especially if you have multiple lights functioning off of one switch.

Know When to Replace Your Light Switch in Butner, NC

Aside from a buzzing sound, there are several ways to tell that it’s time to replace your light switch, including:

• The light switch is warm to the touch.
• The light switch sparks or pops when you use it.
• You see smoke coming from the switch.
• You see black scorch marks around the light switch.

Light switches seem harmless, but there are a lot of dangerous elements hiding behind the switchboard. Call an electrician any time you suspect something strange is going on with the switch. They know how to safely repair and replace switches without causing an electrical fire while doing so. Avoid treating light switch problems as an afternoon DIY project, as you could seriously injure yourself if you make the wrong move.