Electrical Hum

[jdub63]

Yesterday I finally got the detached shop permanent power. Previously I had an extension cord tied into the breaker panel to power the overhead lights. Now that the permanent power is attached I have an electrical hum in the light switch. It wasn't there before with the temp power. It sounds almost like a florescent light hum, but it's definitely coming from the switch.

So, Can a bad switch cause this noise? I haven't had time to swap the switch yet.

Do I have a bad ground? The electrician carried the ground from the meter to the sub-panel. Power is tapped from the 320 meter base to a disconnect then to the sub-panel in the shop.

Any other ideas?


thanks,

Jdub

 

[Nostraquedeo]

Is this a singe pole snap switch or a dimmer switch?

 

[jdub63]

Single pole snap switch

 

[Nostraquedeo]

What all is on this circuit? Is it for lighting, ceiling fan, exhaust fan? Are their any motor loads on the circuit? What type of lighting?

If it is lighting only, I would check and make sure all connections are tight on the switch, as you could be hearing the 60hz buzz at a the point of connection. If everything is tight, my next step would be to change out the switch.

 

[jdub63]

Yes, it's lighting only. Thanks, I'll start from there...

 

[Falcon67]

Probably hums because it doesn't know the words. Switches are cheap, I'd replace it right quick. If the hum returns, start pulling (disconnecting) fixtures at the end working your way back until you find the hummer.