If you’ve ever walked into your office or commercial space and heard an annoying buzzing sound coming from the lights overhead, you’re not alone. This is a common issue in many businesses, but just because it’s common doesn’t mean you should ignore it. A persistent buzzing sound can be more than just irritating—it can also be a sign that something is wrong with your electrical system.
Here at Eric Gandler Development Electric in Clifton Park, we’ve helped countless businesses silence their buzzing lights and fix the root of the problem. So what causes this issue, and what can you do about it?
Common Reasons Lights Buzz in Commercial Buildings
1. Incompatible Dimmers and Bulbs
A common source of buzzing is a mismatch between dimmer switches and LED or CFL bulbs. Older dimmers weren’t designed for modern lighting, and this mismatch can result in a high-pitched hum.
2. Loose Wiring or Poor Connections
Loose wires inside a fixture or switch can cause buzzing and potentially create a fire hazard. If you notice the buzzing gets worse when you turn a light on or off, this might be the culprit.
3. Ballast Problems in Fluorescent Fixtures
If your office still uses fluorescent lights, the buzzing could be due to a failing ballast—the component that regulates current to the lamp. When a ballast is on its way out, the lights may flicker and hum.
4. Overloaded Circuits
Too many devices on a single circuit can cause interference and buzzing. If your lights hum only when certain machines or computers are in use, you may have an overloaded line.
5. Aging Fixtures or Bulbs
Sometimes, bulbs or fixtures themselves are simply past their prime. Older units tend to buzz more, especially if they’ve been exposed to heat or moisture over time.
How to Stop the Buzzing
If you’re tired of that distracting hum and want to fix it for good, here’s what we recommend:
-
Upgrade Dimmers and Bulbs: Make sure you’re using compatible components—especially if you’ve switched to energy-efficient lighting.
-
Inspect Wiring: Have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring to rule out loose connections or other hazards.
-
Replace Ballasts: If you’re using fluorescent lighting, consider replacing ballasts or upgrading to LED.
-
Balance Your Circuits: If certain lights or equipment are overloading your circuits, an electrician can redistribute the load or install dedicated lines.
-
Schedule a Professional Inspection: Don’t leave it to guesswork. A quick inspection from an experienced pro can save you money and potential downtime later.
Call Eric Gandler Clifton Park for Expert Help
At Eric Gandler Development Electric, we specialize in commercial electrical systems for businesses in Clifton Park and the surrounding areas. Whether your lights are buzzing, flickering, or just need an upgrade, our team can help diagnose and fix the issue efficiently—with minimal disruption to your workday.
Don’t let a small buzz turn into a big problem. Contact us today to schedule a visit!
