Flickering lights in your home can be more than just a nuisance. While a quick fix, like tightening a lightbulb, might seem like a solution, there are underlying issues that may be causing the flickering issues that could potentially become serious and dangerous if left unchecked. Understanding why your lights flicker is key to maintaining both the safety and integrity of your electrical system. At Lights On Electric, we have seen it all, and we’re here to help explain the common causes of flickering lights and why you should seek a licensed electrician.
Common Causes of Flickering Lights
- Loose Wiring or Connections One of the most frequent causes of flickering lights is loose or damaged wiring. Over time, the wiring connecting your lights to the power source can become loose, frayed, or corroded, disrupting the flow of electricity and causing flickering. Although tightening light bulbs may offer a short-term fix, the underlying issue of faulty wiring can worsen, increasing the risk of electrical hazards like sparks or fires. To ensure your home’s safety, it’s crucial to have a licensed electrician inspect and repair your wiring, ensuring all connections are secure and working properly.
- Faulty Wiring In some cases, the problem could be due to faulty or outdated wiring in your home. If your electrical system is old or not up to code, it may not be able to handle the demands of modern appliances and fixtures. Faulty wiring can cause a variety of problems, including flickering lights. If you suspect faulty wiring, it’s crucial to call a professional like Lights On Electric to assess and potentially replace your wiring before the situation worsens.
- Overloaded Circuits An overloaded circuit occurs when too many devices are connected to the same circuit, drawing more power than it can safely handle. This excess load can cause the lights to flicker or even completely shut off. If you notice flickering when using multiple devices or appliances, it may be a sign that your circuit is overloaded. Overloading can cause significant damage to your electrical system and increase the risk of fires, so it’s vital to consult an electrician to ensure that your circuits are properly balanced and not overburdened.
- Voltage Spikes Voltage spikes, or surges, can also cause flickering lights. These sudden increases in electrical voltage can occur for various reasons, such as power grid issues, lightning strikes, or faulty appliances. While occasional minor spikes may not cause immediate damage, repeated voltage spikes can damage your appliances and wiring over time. If you notice frequent flickering, it’s worth checking for voltage irregularities, and an electrician can install surge protection to safeguard your home from these potentially damaging spikes.
Dimmer Switch Problems If your flickering lights are connected to a dimmer switch, the problem could lie with the switch itself. Dimmer switches can sometimes cause lights to flicker if they are incompatible with the type of bulb you’re using, or if the dimmer switch is faulty. A simple solution could involve replacing the switch with one designed for the specific bulbs in your fixtures. However, if you continue to experience issues, it’s best to call a professional electrician for a thorough inspection.
The Importance of Professional Help
When lights flicker in your home, it’s crucial to take the issue seriously. While some causes are simple to address, others can lead to more severe electrical problems, including fire hazards. At Lights On Electric, our team of trained and licensed electricians can identify the root cause of flickering lights and ensure that your electrical system is safe and up to code. Whether it’s a minor fix or a major repair, our team is equipped to handle and diagnose any electrical job, large or small. Don’t risk your safety or the integrity of your electrical system by ignoring flickering lights. Contact Lights On Electric in Southampton today to schedule a comprehensive inspection and get the peace of mind you deserve. We are committed to providing 5-star electrical services, whether you need emergency repairs or routine maintenance. Call us now to learn more about our same day services and schedule your appointment.