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Topic: Various Devices Producing Intermittent Clicking Sounds

User: Raptic, Location: Rochester, NY

Asked on: Friday, May 28, 2021 at 10:13 pm EDT
Answered on: Thursday, June 20, 2024 at 11:04 am EDT

Question: I am unable to find reasonable answers for this problem after hours of research. My television, PS4, computer monitor, and an electrical outlet produce intermittent clicking sounds many times a day. I don't mind the sounds, but I have been unable to determine a reasonable cause for this disturbance.The house I live in does have some aging electrical lines, but several of my devices that act up are connected to power conditioners and surge protectors that I would hope wouldn't cause this sort of thing.Is there something basic I am missing?Thank you.

Possible Causes of Intermittent Clicking Sounds



1. Electrical Arcing

Faulty wires or connections can cause electrical current to "arc," creating a crackling or clicking noise. Check for loose wires, frayed insulation, or damaged outlets.

2. Power Line Noise

Interference from other electrical devices, such as motors, transformers, or appliances, can introduce noise onto the power lines. Try unplugging other devices one by one to see if the clicking stops.

3. Surge Protectors and Power Conditioners

While these devices can help protect equipment, they can sometimes introduce noise into the electrical system. Consider unplugging the devices from the surge protector or power conditioner and plugging them directly into an outlet.

4. Faulty Electronics

Internal components in electronic devices can occasionally make clicking sounds due to thermal expansion or contraction. If the clicking is coming from a specific device, try unplugging it and plugging it back in to reset it.

5. Aging Electrical Lines

As electrical lines age, they can become more prone to noise and interference. Consider having your electrical system inspected by a qualified electrician.

6. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

Signals from nearby electronic devices, such as cell phones or wireless routers, can induce noise in electrical lines. Try moving electronic devices away from the affected devices.

Steps to Diagnose and Fix the Issue



Try different outlets

Plug your devices into different outlets to see if the clicking stops.


Isolate the problem

Unplug devices one by one to identify the source of the noise.

Check surge protectors and power conditioners

Bypass these devices and plug your devices directly into the outlet.


Contact the device manufacturers

If the clicking persists, reach out to the manufacturers of your devices for further troubleshooting.*

Consider professional help:
If you are unable to resolve the issue, consider contacting a qualified electrician for further diagnostics and repairs. Flag for review

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