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I just installed a dimmer switch and am having the same problem. It looks like the hissing is caused by the chopping of the electrical current. I got a cheap switch and it looks like some of the more expensive switches may alleviate the problem. I guess it is back to Home Depot for me. Here is the address of the site I found explaining what is going on. Let me know if this helps. http://home.howstuffworks.com/dimmer-switch5.htm Read that and scroll down to the Table of Contents. Lots of good info.

+ yes, a good quality switch will reduce the sound, also upgrading to a 1000 watt dimmer will reduce it to a greater degree

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Q: Why would a 600 W light dimmer on a total of about 500 W of bulbs make a hissing sound when dimmed?
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