| Radio Noise | |
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Radio noise and other annoying buzzes are many times transmitted through an AM radio. Here is a list of the most likely causes: |
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| Dimmer switch (even in ceiling fans) | Touch lamp (even when turned off) |
| Fluorescent light bulbs | Fluorescent tubes |
| Incandescent bulb that is about to burn out | LED light bulb (non-FCC certified types) |
| Automatic on/off night lights | Automatic outdoor yard lights |
| Christmas tree lights & other blinking bulbs | Faulty electrical switches |
| Electronic bug and pest controllers | Ultrasonic motion detectors |
| Electric blankets | 120VAC smoke detectors (battery operated OK) |
| 12VDC inverters | Smart-meters from electric company |
| Streetlights | Dirty insulators and transformers on nearby power pole |
| Nearby televisions or monitors | Cable or satellite boxes |
| Ionic Breeze® or other electrostatic air purifier | CPAP machines |
| Smart speakers | Cordless phones (2.4GHz) |
| Scanners | Treadmills |
| Appliances with motors | Modems and/or routers |
| Desktop Computer or Laptop | Tablet or Smartphone |
| Cell phone chargers | Switching AC adapter |
| Neighbor's versions of the above list if in an apartment, townhouse or a close proximity home. | |
| The best way to eliminate radio noise and interference is at its source. Here is a list of possible solutions: | |
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| The most obvious solution is to turn off the offending device. | |
| Temporarily switch the radio from AC power to battery power to see if the interference is coming from the electrical outlet. If the noise stops, a Radio Noise Filter/Surge Protector can dramatically reduce the interference. | |
| Often grounding a radio will reduce hum caused from AC line noise. Unfortunately, most receivers do not have a ground connection. | |
| Turn off all circuit breakers to see if the noise stops. If it does, then you know it is something in your house. Turn on one circuit at a time to isolate what area the noise is coming from. | |
| Use a battery-operated radio as a direction finder. Turn the radio until the loudest noise is heard. The front and back of the radio will usually point to the noise origin. | |
| Carry a battery-operated radio around the neighborhood. Ask other neighbors if they have problems with radio noise. | |
| If a power pole is suspected, call the utility company. They will usually check the area and wash the insulators. | |
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For more in-depth information about tracking down and solving interference, please read Interference: Define and Conquer by Tom Osenkowsky at Radio World. |
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Still have a question about radio noise or radio reception problems? Visit our FREE Online Library or call one of our technicians at (707) 725-9000. |
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