Do the lights in your home flicker? Flickering lights don’t always signify a serious issue with your electrical system but it is still a situation that necessitates attention. If you’re dealing with flickering lights, it’s best to call a licensed electrician to check it out, as electrical work can be risky.
As with any problem, the best way to diagnose it is to start with the simplest and least expensive possibilities first, and then work your way towards more complex problems. The following causes of flickering lights can help you narrow down what might be going on with your electrical system.
Causes of Flickering Lights
1) Loose Light Bulb
If only one light bulb is flickering, then the issue likely begins and ends with that particular bulb, which makes remedying the situation quite simple. If a light bulb becomes loose, the connection socket becomes compromised, causing the bulb to receive inadequate voltage.
With the light fixture off, make sure the bulb is tight. Sometimes it helps to unscrew the bulb completely and re-screw it back in. Turn the light fixture back on. Does it still flicker? Then replace that particular bulb with a new one. If the problem persists, the issue lies elsewhere.
2) Faulty Switch or Connection
Outlet switches and light fixtures weren’t designed to last forever. If just one light seems to be flickering, try investigating the light switch itself, by switching the light on and off a few times to see if the flickering stops. If the flickering persists, you may have a faulty switch or connection, which will need to be troubleshooted and repaired by a certified electrician.
3) Voltage Fluctuations
If you notice your lights flickering on a regular basis, something may be interfering with the power supply, causing your home’s voltage to fluctuate. It’s important to take note of when the flickering occurs (i.e. during inclement weather, when the AC or heater kicks on, etc.) and provide this information to your electrician.