Troubleshooting: Buzzing (Humming) From the Switch or Light
Summary (TLDR)
If there is buzzing coming from the light switch, then ensure the load attached to the switch is under the maximum wattage. If it is, then unfortunately you have a defective switch -- please reach out to us for an RMA. However, if your lights are buzzing, then it's likely an incompatible bulb(s). Please ensure that your bulbs are dimmable and also rated for MLV, leading edge, MOSFET drivers. Compatible/Incompatible bulbs are listed here.
About the Issues
This is in reference to the Gen 2 Dimmer switches (Black & Red Series):
The issues are pretty self-explanatory so we'll move onto solving them.
Solving the Issues
Issue #1: Buzzing from the Switch
This is likely due to an overload on the switch or a defective unit. Please ensure you've not gone above the max load rating for the switches which are:
- Max Wattage: See below -- maximum will vary based on bulb type and whether the heat sink tabs are removed or not
- Heat Sink Tabs Not Removed: 400W Incandescent, 300W LED, 150W CFL
- One (1) Side Heat Sink Tabs Removed: 300W Incandescent, 200W LED, 150W CFL
- Two (2) Sides Heat Sink Tabs Removed: 200W Incandescent, 150W LED, 100W CFL
If you're confident you haven't gone over the max wattage, please ensure the wiring is correct and the wires are securely fastened. If you still experience issues with buzzing at the switch, reach out to us for a replacement as it's likely a defective switch.
Issue #2: Buzzing from the Bulb(s)
The way the dimmers were designed was that they use forward phase (leading edge) technology, with a MOSFET dimmer designed to work with MLV (Magnetic Low Voltage) loads. If your bulb does not support the same technology or is not a dimmable bulb, you may experience a buzzing (or flickering) from the bulb.
The "easiest" way to fix this issue is to replace the bulb with a compatible one (people who have 12ft ceilings with light fixtures are cursing me right now -- I can hear you). Please check out our bulb compatibility list or find a bulb that is rated for Leading Edge, MOSFET, and is MLV. Also, please ensure your bulb is dimmable -- if it's not rated for dimming, then that's likely what's causing the issue.
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