What Causes Flickering Lights?

Flickering lights are more than an annoyance.

Flickering lights are more than an annoyance. It is a common electrical issue most homeowners encounter at some point. While an occasional light flicker is usually harmless and not a cause of serious concern, noticing flickering lights regularly indicates an underlying electrical issue that needs prompt investigation and fixing by a professional electrician.

Various factors can cause light to flicker; some are easier to fix than others. In extreme cases, flickering lights can result in fires and electric shock that can jeopardize the health and safety of the home and family. Understanding the causes of flickering lights can help determine the best course of action.

Here are the top reasons that can cause the light to flicker:

Overloaded circuits

A circuit becomes overloaded when more power is drawn from a circuit than it can handle. When lights flicker briefly or infrequently only when a major appliance like an air conditioner, dishwasher, oven, or washing machine is turned on, an overloaded circuit is most likely the culprit. Large appliances draw significant energy when they power on. Consistent, severe, or persistent flickering due to an overloaded circuit is dangerous and can cause appliance damage and even electrical fire.

Loose light bulb

A loose light bulb is a simple and less hazardous cause of flickering light. When the light bulb is not placed tightly in the socket, it fails to make a secure connection and receives an inconsistent power supply, and flickering can happen. Using the wrong type of bulb can also cause the light to flicker.

Voltage problems

While slight fluctuations in voltage are normal, lights can flicker when there is a sudden rise in voltage. A voltage higher than 125 volts can cause the lights throughout the house to flicker. Other signs of voltage fluctuation causing flickering lights include consistent flickering when running a large appliance, which continues even after stopping the appliance, light bulbs burning out frequently, and light dimming unexpectedly.

Utility service issue

In neighborhoods where a transformer is shared between multiple homes, issues with the power company sometimes can result in flickering lights. Someone in the neighborhood engaging in heavy electrical use can also result in light flickering.

A faulty light switch

A faulty, outdated, or worn-out switch can also cause light to flicker. A poor connection between a bulb and the light switch often results in flickering lights.

Outdated or loose wiring

Loose wiring is a serious hazard and is often the culprit behind many electrical fires. Loose, worn-out, incorrectly installed, or outdated wiring anywhere in the electrical system, including the panel, is a problem that homeowners should take seriously. If the issue of flickering lights gets worse with time without any apparent reason, loose wiring is usually the cause.

Problems with the main connection

Issues with the main connection can result in flickering lights in multiple home areas. It can indicate a serious, underlying issue with the main meter box connection, which needs immediate attention.

Keep up with electrical maintenance

When ignored, flickering lights can result in more severe issues. Call a local electrician to determine the exact reason behind the flickering lights. Professional electricians have the experience and tools to diagnose potential issues and recommend appropriate solutions.

If you need a highly-reviewed, licensed electrician in the Phoenix Valley area, call Efficient Electric at 623-810-9905. We would love to hear from you!