Is there a buzzing sound in your wall that’s driving you nuts? This is not a normal situation. The vibrating noise could be a sign of problems with your electrical wiring, switches, or outlets and requires immediate attention.
If you are concerned for your safety due to electrical issues, call Mr. Electric® for assistance.
The first step to end the buzzing and regain your sanity is to identify the source of the sound. If you are not sure where to start, we’ve got you covered with some tips to help you identify the potential cause of the buzzing sound. Some possible reasons why you might hear a vibrating or humming noise coming from a wall include:
- The connections inside an electrical outlet or switch could be going bad.
- The screws that fasten the wires to the outlet or switch might be loose.
- If the gas meter or electric meter is on the outside of the buzzing wall, the meter may need to be repaired or replaced.
- A half-opened air vent on the wall may be buzzing due to high air pressure.
- If you have a ceiling fan, turn it off to make sure the hum isn't coming from the fan.
- Fluorescent bulbs often hum; if there are any in the room, turn them off and see if the buzzing stops.
- Look for signs of bees or wasps nesting inside the wall.
Electrical Outlet Buzzing
Is it possible to hear electricity? Kind of. For example, if the buzzing noise is coming from an outlet in your wall, the sound you are hearing is likely electrical current running to the outlet. However, this is not a sound you want to hear. A wall outlet does not make a buzzing noise on its own unless there is a problem in the circuit.
A wall outlet will buzz if there is a loose connection or faulty wiring. A loose connection typically occurs when the plugs that hold the wiring for the outlet come loose over time. If you live in an older house and think that you have a loose connection, you will need to have the outlet replaced.
If you live in a new house or just had some electrical work done, it’s possible that the outlet was not wired correctly. Reversed polarity from the faulty wiring may be causing the buzzing noise, especially if the buzzing gets louder when you plug in more appliances. An outlet with reversed polarity is a dangerous situation that requires the immediate help of a licensed electrician.
Vibrating Noise Driving You Up the Wall? Call Mr. Electric
Still can’t pinpoint where the noise is coming from? Let the experts at Mr. Electric help. Our licensed electricians are trained to quickly inspect the noise and diagnose the problem. If the issue is electrical, we can often get it resolved immediately. Call us to request a quote or schedule a service call online from your local Mr. Electric today!
