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Will low voltage lights cause audible hum?

I'm about to install recessed lights in my listening room, and my interior designer and my electrician are recommending low voltage lights. I'm wondering whether the transformers in them will hum and raise the noise floor in the room. Anyone had experience with this?
cipherjuris
jond's avatar
jond
6,054 posts
 
I believe that dimmer switches cause hum, so be sure not to use those. Beyond that I'm not sure if low voltage lights would be an issue or not, but I'm sure some of the knowledgable folks on here will have some thoughts.
nuguy
195 posts
 
You know what most people here will say..."run dedicated power!" You obviously have a good understanding of what dirty power can do or you wouldn't have asked the question. You should get a price from your electrician, at least that way it's done right and it'll set your mind at ease.

Have fun!!!
douglas_schroeder
3,281 posts
 
General rule is: Halogen and incandescent are ok, stay AWAY from flourescent. Dimmers do not cause hum on halogens, if the electrical wiring is done right. See my HT pics.I'm using a Lutron remote control "Spacer" system and it's perfect. Lights are on a different circuit from A/V equip. Entire HT room is on subpanel. No loops/hums anywhere.
Low voltage stepdown transformer might cause issues if on same circuit. One reason why I decided not to go for it. You can get mutch the same effect by using sconces or cans on dimmers.
Not sure if the "rope" lighting (like Christmas lights in a plastic flexible tube) would work or not. Worth a look at Home Depot, etc.
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