tranformer buzzing - how to make it stop?

[michieljhr]

Hello, aplogies in advance for the 'duh' nature of this question. I have just installed a halogen picture light which has a transformer built in. It makes a very loud buzzing noise when I use the dimmer switch in the circuit. But some buzzing persists even when the dimmer is fully 'open'. What can I do to make it stop - other than throwing the light out altogether... Thanks in advance.

[geomuss]

has the same problem with one i installed then found out they should not be linked to a dimmer as there transformer needs the same power input all the time.

check your box again just to make sure, you don;t want to go blowing things up

[Steve1951]

Hi
Some transformers are not dimmable although you can get special dimmers that in theory allow you to dim them.

To me the better route is to replace the transformer with a dimmable one which are easily available then you can use your standard dimmer.

But as the previous guy said read the instructions I am sure it will tell you if they recommend dimming or not.

Regards

Steve

[Bruce_]

Built-in transformers are rarely dimmable, and if they are you will almost certainly need a "trailing edge" dimmer (like the new Lutron dimmers).

It's usually difficult/impossible to replace built-in transformers with something else. So probably your only choice is to somehow use a remotely mounted transformer.

[Steve1951]

Hi Bruce
I have noticed that both of us post on these type of issues and I guess you are a spark too.

Your comments are really the same as mine however I would say that I have replaced internal transformers with dimmable ones several times........you may have to scour your wholesalers catalogues to find one to fit though.

You also posted on the one with the guy with the 25 watt light bulb........I think I lost my temper a bit but he did seem like a dangerous amature who wouldnt take well intentioned advice

Steve

[Bruce_]

No, I'm not an electrician I know a bit about dimmers though

You might be right. Search hard enough and you might find a solution. I'm speaking generally, but "integral" usually means small. And small usually means it's not dimmable.

Every week I see yet another make of transformer appear. Claim it's dimmable, but when you test it, the results say otherwise.