Loud Dimmer Switches


I just installed 2 dimmer switches from Home Depot in a dedicated room. They give off a humming sound. These dimmers have 5 settings which are touch controlled and they cost $29 each. Are some types of dimmers better than others not giving off a hum. Both dimmers are on dedicated lines.

Thanks
moonguy
I had the same problems with the same dimmers.

The trick...put much lower wattage bulbs in. If you start to get anywhere near 500 watts it puts to much strain on. I think I have mine near 250 watts and its now silent.
Thanks guys, hooked up the Lutrons tonight and they are dead silent, no hum what so ever

02-06-08: Don_s
I have had several Lutron dimmer switches (slider model) burn out. I get tired of replacing them. They were quiet. None of them made any audible noise.

Don you may hay been overloading them. Dimmers are usually rated in Watts. Best not to load them more than 80%.
Moonguy:

Basic dimmers are usually designed to work with line voltage incandescent loads. If you are using them to drive transformers (such as MR16 lamps or other halogen), they may buzz.

A dimmer designed for inductive (transformer) loads will be better, but some loads may still buzz. If you are using low voltage in you room, it would be best to locate the transformers remotely.

Hope this helps.

Ron
Someone told me to only use digital dimmers. This is required for Halogen lights.
I think something is amiss. I have never had a dimmer hum. Check wiring and make sure you are not consuming more current than their rated current capability.

ET
I have had several Lutron dimmer switches (slider model) burn out. I get tired of replacing them. They were quiet. None of them made any audible noise.

They were in the same room but on a separate circuit from my dedicated 20 amp audio circuit.
Would second the Lutron. I have the dimmers with the remote. Perfect for home theater. Eliminates numerous trips out of the comfy spot..