Why are My Lights Flickering at Home?
Flickering lights inside your home may be a sign that it's time to call a residential electrician. The problem could be a warning sign of a significant electrical problem, or it could be something small that is easy to repair. Either way, if a simple lightbulb replacement doesn't solve the problem, don't attempt to make repairs yourself. Without proper training as an electrician, making electrical repairs yourself can be dangerous.
Flickering vs. Dimming
Flickering or dimming lights are both indications of a potential problem, but they may have different causes. Flickering describes lights that dim and brighten rapidly several times a second. Dimming lights are lights that lower in brightness and stay that way for several minutes or longer.
Several electrical problems can cause lights that flicker. Dimming lights in your home are typically a sign of an overloaded circuit. Older homes with inadequate or outdated electrical panels often have this problem because they are not properly wired to handle the energy needs of modern living.
It may seem like a subtle difference. However, when you contact an electrician to troubleshoot your home's electrical system, it's helpful to describe the problem as accurately as possible.
What Other Warning Signs Should You Know About?
Electrical problems cause over 50,000 house fires every year, according to Electricity Safety Foundation International. Most of those fires could have been prevented if homeowners were aware of the warning signs.
In addition to flickering or dimming lights, you should call a residential electrician if you experience any of the following problems in your home:
1. Odd Smells
New appliances may emit an unusual odor the first time they are used, but it is not typical for odd smells to come from electrical outlets or other appliances. If you detect an odor, unplug the device and don't use the outlet again until an electrician has assessed the situation.
2. Odd Noises
The electricity running through your home is powerful, but it should be silent. Buzzing, sizzling or crackling noises coming from outlets and switches is a major red flag. Turn off the power to any problem outlets and call for repairs.
3. You Feel Heat
Outlets, light fixtures, and appliances should operate without generating heat. If outlets, switch plates, or the areas above ceiling light fixtures feel warm to the touch, this may be a sign that you have a significant problem.
4. Circuit Breaker Problems
Circuit breakers are designed to trip when a circuit becomes overloaded. However, if you are frequently experiencing tripped breakers, it may indicate your electrical system needs to be updated.
5. Electrical Panel Problems
The electrical panel is the brain of your home's electrical system. Call an electrician if you notice anything odd like burn marks inside or outside of the panel, smoke coming from the panel, or general damage.
Possible Causes of Flickering Lights
There's a Problem with the Fixture
If you're lucky, your flickering lights may be a localized issue with a specific fixture and not a problem with the home's electrical system. If the fixture is old and has outdated wiring, it may be time to repair or replace it.
You Live in an Older Home
Do you know what year your house was constructed? If it was built in the 1980s or earlier and has not had an electrical update, call an electrician to schedule an evaluation of your home's electrical system. Today's families use more and larger appliances and devices. Your current system may not be capable of providing all the electricity that is required.
Loose Wiring
It is possible that whoever installed the fixture that is flickering failed to tighten all the connections correctly. If you are only experiencing a problem with a single light, make sure your electrician is aware of the malfunction. Do not use the light until the problem has been repaired.
If lights flicker throughout your home, it indicates a bigger problem. Loose wiring connections in your electrical system put you at greater risk for an electrical fire.
Fluctuating Voltage
Faults in the electrical system can cause volt levels to be higher than normal. If you are also experiencing frequent bulb burnouts and unpredictable dimming, it could be the result of fluctuating voltage. Excess voltage is a safety hazard and should be addressed by a qualified residential electrician as soon as possible.
The Circuits Are Overloaded
If flickering happens at the same moment a major appliance is started, it could be an issue with overloaded circuits. If this is the case, updates to your electrical system may be needed.
Utility Service Issues
Your home shares electricity with all of the other houses and buildings in your neighborhood. If someone else in the area is engaging in especially heavy electrical use, it could cause the lights in your home to flicker. If you suspect this is the problem, contact your utility company as well as an electrician.
Light Dimmers are Malfunctioning
Lights that are controlled by dimmer switches may flicker if an incompatible lightbulb is being used. LED lights tend to flicker when dimmers are set too low. This is one case where it is safe for a homeowner to fix the problem without professional help. Use a compatible bulb or replace the dimmers with units that are LED-friendly.
How Dangerous are Flickering Lights?
The light bulbs themselves do not pose a problem. Turn off the appliance, let hot bulbs cool and remove them. The danger comes from the wiring of the fixture or needed electrical repairs inside your home. Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, and fluctuating voltage all present potential hazards—including fire—and need to be repaired as soon as possible.
Get Help for Flickering Lights from a Qualified Residential Electrician
Don't trust your home's electrical system to an unlicensed "handyman" or a DIY video. Flickering or dimming lights may seem like a minor problem, but they may be warning signs of a serious issue with your electrical system. Contact the highly qualified, licensed electricians at Vine Electric for reliable repairs and advice you can trust.
