Cut Sheet

Lamp Buzz With Solid State Incandescent / Halogen Dimmers
Application Note #3
Revision D
July 2014
1 Technical Support — 800.523.9466
A solid-state dimmer is an electronic switch that rapidly turns the current on and off 120 times per second to achieve
the dimming effect. This rapid switching can cause incandescent / halogen lamp filaments to vibrate, resulting in a
buzzing noise. Lamp buzz is generally noisiest at mid-range (50%) dimming level.
Some lamps are noisier than others when dimmed, depending on the physical characteristics of the lamp. Lamps
of higher wattage (100 W and above) tend to produce a louder buzz. Therefore, use a lower wattage lamp whenever
possible to reduce lamp buzz.
Other factors that affect perceived noise level of lamp buzz are:
• Pitch of lamp buzz
• Type of light fixture
• Ambient noise level of room
• Surrounding surfaces/finishes
• Relative proximity of light fixture to ears
• Individual sensitivity to noise
Recommendations
The following suggestions may help to reduce audible lamp buzz.
• Use lower wattage lamps (100 W or less) whenever possible
• Selecting another brand of lamp can sometimes reduce lamp
buzz. Name brand bulbs may have sturdier construction
than generic bulbs.
• Use a lamp of a different size.
• If you are currently using a general service bulb, try using
a rough service bulb. If you are currently using a rough
service bulb, try using a general service bulb.
• If you are currently using a 120 V~ bulb try using
a 130 V~ bulb. If you are currently using a 130 V~ bulb
try using a 120 V~ bulb.
• A newer halogen lamp can reduce wattage by 30% over a
traditional incandescent lamp. This will reduce electric
current and should help with acoustic noise.
100 W 60 W
Brand
A
Brand
B
General
Service
Rough
Service
120 V~
rated
130 V ~
rated
Incandescent
Bulb
Halogen
Bulb