Buzzing noise from dimmer - I have read up but cannot understand

[Per]

Hi,

I have recently (or rather, my electrician has) installed some buster & punch dimmers, link here: https://busterandpunch.com/products/4g-dimmer-all-finishes

For one of the 4-gang ones, I have it controlling 5 x 50 watt bulbs in halogen lights like these (http://www.nationallighting.co.uk/I...hts/12V-Halogen-Downlights/BOX-AR111/pid/2429), one 3-bulb fitting and one 2-bulb fitting. The other gangs control some various halogens too, but not as heavy a load.

The dimmer gives a pretty loud buzzing noise and I've called the supplier of the dimmer who says that a lot of people change the "module" at the back of the dimmer to get rid of the noise. This is what the back of the dimmer looks like, and I would like to know (attached image)
a) what exactly is this "module" called and where can I find it?
b) will I find a better one that doesn't give away the noise I am currently experiencing

Any comments on that these dimmers are expensive for the performance you get are not helpful - I like the way they look and will keep them

Any help with this would be appreciated

 

[bernardgreen]

The buzzing is almost always create by a small coil in the dimmer module. The purpose of the coil is to reduce electrical interference. If the windings on the coil are loose then they vibrate and this creates the buzzing noise.

The module is called a two way dimmer module. Tye number is HDP-400 and the manufacturer / importer is Denmans,

The one dimmer module on this item from Wickes may be the same as the modules used in your 4 gang plate.

http://www.wickes.co.uk/Push-Dimmer-1-Gang-2-Way-White-60-400VA/p/195127

 

[Per]

@bernardgreen thank you for that. So are you suggesting that the HDP-400 supplied by Denmans normally doesn't give the noise and I should try to track those down to replace my current ones?

 

[deadshort]

There's money in knobs !

DS

 

[Iggifer]

....supplied by Denmans...

There's your problem buddy

 

[Per]

@iggifier Sorry I don't understand, what do you suggest I do?

 

[bernardgreen]

So are you suggesting that the HDP-400 supplied by Denmans normally doesn't give the noise

I haven't enough experience of that dimmer to pass comment. Good quality dimmers would have the coil winding coated with resin or other means to prevent the coil vibrating.

 

[Iggifer]

these modules are pretty good, and cover you for every eventuality

 

[stillp]

If they've only recently been installed, aren't they under warranty?

 

[Iggifer]

If they've only recently been installed, aren't they under warranty?

They probably are, but if they're carp, they're carp.

 

[stillp]

If they're the Cheapest Reasonably Acceptable Product, then a refund is in order.

 

[Per]

@Iggifer Thank you I have bought a couple of these now and will try to see if it makes a difference

 

[Iggifer]

If they're the Cheapest Reasonably Acceptable Product, then a refund is in order.

Nicely done. I'd be taking them back but it might be more hassle than it's worth in this instance. If it was through a tradespersons trade account, they'll only issue a credit (denmans at least), and not actually refund the money. Fine for every day situations, but in this case, the electrician would have to refund the OP out of his own pocket essentially. He may or may not be willing to do this.

 

[DaveHerns]

Do I see a nick on the insulation of the brown wire and an unsleeved earth ? Are you sure he's an electrician?

 

[Taylortwocities]

these modules are pretty good, and cover you for every eventuality

Not quite every eventuality. They are not suitable for loads below 60watts. Use a Varilight V-pro for low current loads (like LEDS)