Annoying 240 Volt AC Ripple Control Signalling for Tariff Switching

Now that I have LED lighting throughout, I find the impact of ripple control signalling from my energy provider annoying as all the lights flicker and my fans buzz many times in the late afternoon and evening. It also has an impact - buzzing - from the audio output from my recently purchased multi-function hub, which is powered from the 240vac using a USB power adaptor. Is there any recourse that I may have from the provider other than spending hundreds of dollars to install a filter to remove ripple from my lighting and EPO circuits?

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It is unlikely there will any recourse.

A network operator who is responsible for the operation of the network will argue that their systems meets current regulatory requirements in relation to the systems management of their network, including control signals sent over their networks.

They will also argue that if one had bought and installed devices which are affected by their control signals/normal operations associated with their network, it would be the devices supplier which should have made allowances for their operations through the design and manufacture of the devices.

Following on from this, if one has bought devices which are affected by their control signals/normal operations, then the owner of these devices would be responsible for mitigating any impacts as mitigation isn’t the responsibility of the network operator.

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As you have be mentioned it’s possible for the daily switching of peak off peak power by the supply authority can affect LED lighting etc. Some general advice shared by one in the trade.

As a general note for any one concerned with similar issues it’s important to note the exact times and corresponding date the flickering is occurring. Necessary to confirm that the issue is concurrent with when the supply authority is switching controlled supplies on or off. There can be in some circumstances sources of interference transmitted on power lines due to nearby customers equipment. In which instance the supply authority will act to identify and where necessary take action against the source, if they are made aware. To also note the ripple frequency and supply switching times do vary across the nation. Switching of some controlled loads follows a fixed schedule and others vary day to day based on load/demand. IE Every day there can be times which are different from the previous. It’s preferable if one has the flickering to discuss it with the supply authority for your location and or local electrical contractor.

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Many years ago, the ripple signals would always cause my overly-sensitive PC to reboot :tired_face:

After speaking with our local electricity distributor, they suggested I purchase a UPS ( Uninterruptible Power Supply ), which I did. Another advantage is that I’m not so concerned using my computer during storms / heightened possum activity when a power outage could often be imminent.

We have a few appliances that make the ripple signals audible. The loudest is a dehumidifier.

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Decades ago when I worked at ABC TV we used to refer to it as “hot water modulation”. There was extensive filtering applied to incoming power feeds to stop it reaching any broadcasting equipment.

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