Pullcord switch noise
New Pullcord switches widely used in bathrooms have become noisy over the last few decades. In some cases they can wake the whole household up at night. Here are some noise reduction strategies.
Pick your switch
- Some are quieter than average. ?
- 2A rated switches are less noisy than 10A ones.
Mounting point
When mounted to plasterboard, the board acts as a sounding board, increasing the noise. Its quieter to screw the switch through to a timber joist, though there isn't always one in the right place. If board mounting is necessary, consider firming it with added timber, thickening it with plaster on the topside, or even placing small bags of sand on the pb can help a bit.
Rubber mount
Mounting the switch enclosure to the ceiling with rubber tapwashers helps.
- The traditional fixing consists of, in order: ceiling plasterboard, switch enclosure base, screw
- A rubber mounted fixing consists of, in order: ceiling plasterboard, rubber tapwasher, switch enclosure base, rubber tapwasher, large metal washer, screw. Just do it to enough to prevent looseness, don't tighten.
- See Fan_noise_reduction#Flexible_mounting
Low level lighting
Very low level lighting left on often avoids the need to use the main light, especially at night when the noise is worst. A watt is plenty.
Switches outside the bathroom
Pullcord switches are then unnecessary. Children can be a nuisance with them.
Pullcord dimmer
Luxury options can be silent, but expensive.
Switch above ceiling
Occasionally its possible to mount the switch to timber above the ceiling, and run the pullcord through a very small ceiling hole with a drilled disc on the plasterboard to tidy it up (and stop the cord damaging the plasterboard). Round the edges of the hole to avoid cord damage. Doable when there's access above.
PIR sensor
Bathroom lights operated by a PIR sensor are sometimes suggested. They result in complaints such as being dazzled by unwanted light at night, and lights going out when busy.
Relay
Standard mains wallswitch on 6v operating a relay.
Tablelamp switch
A 1A tablelamp pullcord switch can be fitted inside a standard pullcord switch enclosure, mounted with fire rated silicone. But these aren't as robust, abuse of the pullcord can break them.