Why Are My Lights Flickering?

In this brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric, we’ll review some of the potential causes of flickering lights. If you’d rather have a certified electrician take care of your lighting repair or lighting replacement, then call Mr. Electric to schedule a convenient appointment today. We are also happy to arrange emergency electrical repair service for as soon as possible.

Loose Bulbs and Connections

The most mundane and harmless cause of flickering lights is loose bulbs and connectors. Over time, the vibrations caused by various factors, such as nearby construction or heavy footsteps, can result in slightly loosened bulbs or connections. Quickly make sure the bulbs are properly screwed in and connections are snugly secured.

Dimmer Switch is Incompatible

Progress in lighting technology has gifted us with dimmer switches, allowing us to adjust the intensity of lighting to our liking. However, not all light fixtures are compatible with dimmer switches, and incompatibility can lead to flickering issues. This is especially true for older fixtures or those with incompatible bulb types. Select the appropriate dimmer switch or switch out your bulbs for ones that are designed to work with dimmers.

Overloaded Circuits

Electrical circuits have limited capacity, and they CAN become overloaded. When a single circuit bears a load greater than its capacity, it will struggle to accommodate the demand and potentially cause flickering lights. Overloaded circuits can lead to overheating, potential fire hazards, and damage to appliances. Mitigating this problem involves redistributing loads or considering a circuit upgrade.

Fluctuation in Voltage

Let’s talk about an even more serious culprit: voltage fluctuations. These fluctuations can occur due to various reasons, such as power grid irregularities, nearby lightning strikes, or electrical equipment cycling on and off. Inconsistent voltage can cause lights to flicker and potentially damage sensitive electronics. You can address this issue with voltage regulators or surge protectors to maintain a steady voltage supply.

Faulty or Damaged Wiring & Connections

An especially concerning possibility is faulty or damaged wiring. Wires can degrade over time due to environmental factors, temperature fluctuations, or poor installation. Loose connections, exposed wires, or frayed insulation can lead to erratic electrical flow, manifesting as flickering lights. But flickering lights is the least of your worry if you have damaged wiring. Poor wiring can cause electrical fires, and they should be addressed AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Electrical Panel Issues

The electrical panel is the hub that distributes power throughout your home. If it's outdated, damaged, or malfunctioning, it can trigger flickering lights and a host of other electrical problems. Since the electrical panel is the core of your home's electrical system, issues should be addressed without delay.

Hire a Certified Electrician Today

Electrical issues can be stressful, and rightly so. Don’t wait until electrical issues turn into big problems. A certified electrician can inspect your entire electrical system and identify issues and vulnerabilities. The electricians at Mr. Electric come with the equipment, parts, and materials to resolve most common issues the first time around. Call Mr. Electric to hire a reliable electrician today.