Any noise your light switch makes besides the “clicking” on and off are usually indicators that the switch is beginning to wear out or that it is defective.
Paying attention to your light switches can save you more energy. It can also warn you if something is wrong. So if you’re wondering why your light switch keeps humming or buzzing, then read on and find out more!
Electricity Jumps
Even though we all depend on electricity, it’s easy to forget how dangerous it can be. One reason your light switches are hissing, clicking, humming, or buzzing is because the electricity running through your home. That sound is the electricity hopping around, striking one metal component and then another. The electric charge should be flowing smoothly, which it normally does. This is how the lights turn on and turn off. The circuit is either broken or completed. That’s just how it works. But when the buzzing gets louder, that’s a warning sign. At some point, an electrical fire could break out! Don’t let it wait and don’t think it’ll go away on its own. Call professionals like the experts at Tristar Electric right away!
Problems
With all of that in mind, it’s time to confront the problems that could be affecting your house. Fires are the big ones, but there are also other issues that might not be as dramatic. At least, not at first. How do you know that the light switches are malfunctioning? Look for these signs:
- First, there’s the problem of flickering. You’ll see the lights flicker when the switch is malfunctioning or it’s about to give up the ghost. A sputtering light can waste more energy than you think, so this is something to address as soon as possible.
- Second, you’ll see some sparking. Sometimes you might see this when plugging a device into an outlet for a second or two. But switches should never spark, so get help right away!
- Snapping, crackling, and popping – your outlets and switches shouldn’t sound like quiet fireworks. If it does, it’s another sign of a problem!
- The feeling: you can probably feel it when you get shocked by a faulty light switch. If you do, then it’s time to get an electrician to come over and inspect what is going on around your home.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau Greater Mid-Atlantic. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and YouTube!