Sparking inside dimmer light switch

[dragonballz]

When I toggle the toggle switch, I can hear sparking. It also sparks in the ON position when I put pressure on the switch (pushing in like a button).

You can see the carbon buildup on the side of the switch in these photos. It sparks with both CFLs and incandescents. The position of the dimmer lever doesn't matter.

Bad switch?

 

[1/2 Cup]

"bad switch" ..........replace it.

 

[bottom feeder]

Aren't compact florescent bulbs and dimmers incompatible anyway?

 

[dragonballz]

Aren't compact florescent bulbs and dimmers incompatible anyway?

I bought some slightly expensive "compatible" CFLs and they blew in less than a month. So I got replacements from the company and they lasted a couple of months. Now, I got some cheap "not compatible" ones and they are still going after a year. I never use the dimmer function though.

 

[InPrimer]

FWIW, replacing a switch can be $30, having a house fire can cost thousands$$ not to be an ***.....be safe, replace the switch.P.S. the deductable on your fire insurance is a lot more than replacing the switch

 

[Slednut]

I have the exact same switches and they did the same thing. I sprayed electrical contact cleaner on them and have had no problems.

 

[dragonballz]

FWIW, replacing a switch can be $30, having a house fire can cost thousands$$ not to be an ***.....be safe, replace the switch.P.S. the deductable on your fire insurance is a lot more than replacing the switch

$6

I'll be replacing both of them. They are for the kitchen. Who needs a dimmer in the kitchen anyway!?

Thanks guys

 

[Greatbear]

I've found that style of dimmer to be problematic, the small on/off switch is not suitable for constant, day-to-day use, plus dirt seems to get into the switch around the edges of the rocker and contaminates the contacts just underneath. The problem becomes much worse with moisture and higher electrical loads.