What You Should Do When You Have Flickering Lights

Flickering lights can quickly become a sign of something more serious in your home’s electrical system. Whether it’s happening in a single fixture or throughout the house, ignoring the problem now could lead to bigger, more expensive repairs later. Mr. Electric is here to help you pinpoint the cause and determine the best course of action, including professional flickering light repair if necessary. Read more to learn about some of the common reasons behind flickering lights, when it’s time to call an electrician, and how to keep your home safe.

Is It a Bulb Issue or Something Bigger?

The first step to tackling flickering lights is determining whether the problem starts with the bulb itself. Sometimes, it really is that simple. A loose bulb or one that’s nearing the end of its life can flicker intermittently. Start by turning off the light, waiting for it to cool, and carefully tightening the bulb. If it’s an older incandescent bulb, it may be on its last legs and needs replacing. LED or CFL bulbs can also flicker if they aren’t compatible with the dimmer switches in your home. Check whether your dimmer switch is rated for the type of bulb you’re using. If changing or adjusting the bulb doesn’t solve the issue, you may be dealing with something much bigger, like a circuit problem, wiring issue, or faulty fixture. This is where a professional electrician can help identify deeper issues and provide the necessary flickering light repair to get your lighting back in order.

How Faulty Wiring Can Cause Flickering Lights

Electrical wiring delivers power throughout your home. If that system is damaged or outdated, flickering lights can be one of the early warning signs. Loose or damaged connections inside the wall can cause power fluctuations that lead to lights that flicker, dim, or blink completely out. If you’re noticing flickering lights after plugging in an appliance or using multiple devices, the circuit might be overloaded. This can put a strain on your electrical system and create safety risks. Another wiring issue could come from aging electrical systems. Homes built several decades ago usually have outdated wiring that simply can’t keep up with today’s electrical demands. If your lights flicker regularly or seem to behave unpredictably, it’s time to call in a qualified electrician to assess the wiring.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Light Flickering in Your Home

Small issues, like a loose bulb or poor fixture connection, can escalate into larger problems if left unchecked. And when flickering lights point to something serious like faulty wiring, the risks are far greater. One of the biggest dangers of ignoring this issue is the risk of an electrical fire. Damaged wiring or overloaded circuits can generate heat, which, if left unattended, could spark a fire inside your walls. According to electrical safety experts, faulty wiring is one of the leading causes of home electrical fires across the country. Flickering lights can also indicate inconsistent voltage levels in your electrical system. If you’ve noticed lights dimming when an appliance starts or the lights in multiple rooms flickering at once, it could be a sign of an overloaded circuit or issues with your electrical panel. This kind of voltage fluctuation can damage electronics and appliances over time and lead to expensive premature replacements. For the safety of your home and family, it’s best to take care of flickering lights quickly. An electrician can identify the cause and make sure that your home’s electrical system is functional and safe.

When to Call an Electrician for Flickering Issues

It’s always a good idea to call a professional if you’re unsure about the source of your flickering lights, but there are some specific scenarios where calling an electrician is absolutely essential.

• Widespread Flickering: If multiple lights in your home flicker simultaneously, the issue could be with your electrical panel, wiring, or the utility company’s power supply.
• Burning Smells or Heat: If you notice a burning smell or heat coming from outlets, switches, or fixtures, turn off the power immediately and call an local electrician. This is a major safety hazard.
• Recent Renovations: If you’ve recently had work done on your home, flickering lights might be a sign of improper installation or wiring.
• Dimming During Appliance Use: If lights flicker or dim every time you use a high-powered appliance like a microwave or air conditioner, your circuits may be overloaded and need an upgrade.
• Old or Damaged Wiring: If you live in an older home, it’s important to have your wiring checked periodically. Flickering lights can signal that it’s time for an inspection.

Do You Need Reliable Electrical Repairs?

If you are worried that your electrical issues are a sign of a faulty fixture, outdated wiring, or an overloaded circuit, call Mr. Electric. We provide reliable, high-quality electrical services to keep your home running. Our electricians are trained to diagnose and fix a variety of electrical issues to protect the safety and comfort of your family. Contact us to schedule your appointment.