What issue may occur with incandescent lamps when using electronic dimmers?

Prepare for your Residential Wiring Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, all with hints and explanations, to ensure exam readiness.

When using electronic dimmers with incandescent lamps, one common issue that may arise is that the lamps may produce a humming sound. This hum can occur due to the way electronic dimmers control the power delivered to the bulb. Electronic dimmers use a technique called phase-cut dimming, which turns the voltage on and off at a rapid rate to achieve the desired brightness.

This rapid switching can create vibrations in the filament of the incandescent bulb, leading to an audible hum. The sound depends on the design of the dimmer and the characteristics of the bulbs being used. Some dimmers are more susceptible to this issue than others, and using higher-quality dimmers or those specifically designed for incandescent lamps can help mitigate the humming sound.

In contrast, other potential issues with incandescent lamps and electronic dimmers, such as flickering, failure to light, or overheating, are less common and typically can be resolved through compatibility adjustments or selecting the right components.

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