Although flickering lights or frequently dimming household lights can be an annoyance, most of the time there is a harmless reason for the flickering. Flickering lights, however, can also be a sign of more serious electrical problems, and in that case, ignoring the problem could have disastrous results like house fires. So how do you know the reasons for flickering lights? Here are the answers.
4 Reasons For Flickering Lights
Not all light flutters signal an urgent problem. These are straightforward tasks that some homeowners occasionally forget to perform.
You might be one of the lucky ones and discover the issue is caused by something as simple as loose connections with a light bulb, a loose light plug that is not completely plugged into an outlet, or an individual light switch or light fixture that needs to be replaced.
Loose Bulb
It might be a straightforward cause if you occasionally see only one light flicker or if it happens frequently whenever a big appliance starts up. Flickering is brought on by loose light bulbs in the socket, which receive erratic power.
Before touching the light bulb, turn it off and let it cool. Make sure the light bulb is installed securely and that it is the appropriate type for the fixture.
Type Of Bulb
The type of bulb you are using may be the cause of the flickering or blinking lights. When a fluorescent light is warming up, for example, it often flickers.
Dimmer Switch Bulbs
Make sure the lightbulb complies with the requirements of the dimmer switch if you’re using one. Simple solutions like faulty or loose bulbs for your dimmer switches could solve the problem.
Since they cannot be used with non-LED dimmers, LED bulbs frequently flicker when they are used with a dimmer switch. You might even want to switch to a smart bulb instead of your current one since it won’t require a physical dimmer switch. It might be a broken light switch if this doesn’t solve the problem.
Loose Plug Connection
Make sure your plug is still attached to the outlet. Simply unplug the plug, pry the metal prongs open, and plug it back in if the plug’s prongs are bent.
When To Be Concerned
Not every flickering light is a cause for alarm. It is better to call in an expert to check everything out if you are unsure of the cause of the flicker. A mistake from doing it yourself is far more expensive than hiring a professional electrician. Avoid attempting to navigate it by yourself.
Here are some possible issues that can occur if you are inexperienced and tackle major issues on your own:
- accidental shock, serious injury, burns, or death
- improperly installing wiring could lead to a dangerous fire hazard
- insurance may not cover electrical damage costs
- creating a bigger problem by trying to fix it yourself
By having a qualified electrician diagnose the issue, you can prevent these problems.
When Flickering Lights Surround A Single Light
The issue is probably related to the light and its wiring if only one light source is flickering. The light bulbs should be checked first. The bulb might need to be tightened or changed. A wiring problem near the unit or between the unit and the light switch is most likely to be the cause of the problem if a new lightbulb doesn’t fix it.
You must then employ a qualified electrician at this time. If the problem is with the aluminum wiring, then it’s a potential electrical fire hazard and is a sign that it is time to call an electrician.
Additionally, there is no easy access to the wiring because it is hidden behind the walls and ceiling. You don’t want to destroy half the room only to discover that the problem could have been resolved earlier. A qualified electrician must be called right away if there is a broken light switch, loose wiring, or other serious electrical problem.
When Several Lights Flickering
You may have a serious issue if multiple lights in your home flicker and it’s not because of a power load. Loose service connectors and the main power box may both be at fault. It could be old wiring that’s breaking down.
Copper and aluminum wires could be mingling. It could be many things and unless it’s something obvious like an old knob & tube wiring, you won’t know what it is even if you see it.
Once more, you must contact a licensed electrician immediately. They have quick problem-solving skills and can locate the issue. All electrical work must be completed properly because mistakes can result in fire, harm, or even death.
We also recommend installing a home generator in case your lighting goes out completely. Before other indications of electrical problems causing abrupt changes to your way of life, call a local electrician today.
The Occasional Light Flicker
Flickering lights still require attention even if a demon isn’t trying to raise the underworld through your home. A house fire or electrocution could eventually result from it. Are there any electrical issues that require professional repair? Then contact a professional and let him know if you are dealing with a flickering light problem in your home. It’s completely normal and shouldn’t raise any issues.
Final Thoughts
You can rest assured that when your lights start to flicker, neither a ghost nor your eyes are likely to be playing tricks on you.
Make sure it is not a serious problem, though, before you can rest easy after spotting the first indication of danger. Flickering lights should never be ignored as they pose a risk of electrocution, electric shock, or a spark that starts a house fire.
To ensure that everything is in proper working order and that your wiring and circuit boxes are secure for your safety, contact a professional at Bates Electric.