Why Are My Lights Flickering? | New Jersey Electrician

A light that flickers once when an appliance turns on may not seem like a major concern. But persistent or unexplained flickering shouldn't be ignored.

Flickering lights can have several causes, ranging from a loose bulb to a problem with your home's wiring or electrical service.

A Loose or Failing Bulb

The simplest explanation is sometimes the right one. A bulb that isn't properly seated in its socket can flicker.

Try turning the light off and allowing it to cool before checking that the bulb is securely installed. If the problem continues, the bulb itself may be failing.

LED bulbs can also flicker when they aren't compatible with a particular fixture, dimmer, or electrical component.

An Overloaded Circuit

Large appliances can draw substantial amounts of electricity when they start running. If lights dim or flicker when an appliance turns on, the circuit may be experiencing a significant change in electrical load.

An electrician can determine whether your circuits are appropriately sized for the appliances and equipment they're supplying.

A Loose Electrical Connection

Loose connections can cause intermittent electrical problems, including flickering lights. This can occur at a fixture, switch, outlet, junction box, or elsewhere in the electrical system.

Because locating and repairing these connections can require accessing electrical wiring, this is a job for a qualified electrician.

A Problem With the Electrical Service

If multiple lights throughout your home flicker or change brightness, the problem may extend beyond a single fixture or circuit.

Problems with the electrical service or incoming voltage can affect multiple areas of a home and should be professionally evaluated.

Flickering Lights After a Storm

If flickering begins after a severe storm, lightning strike, or power outage, don't assume it's unrelated. Storm damage can affect electrical equipment and connections.

Pay particular attention if flickering occurs along with buzzing, burning smells, sparks, or repeated breaker trips.

When Should You Call an Electrician?

Consider having your electrical system inspected if:

• Multiple lights are flickering

• Flickering happens frequently

• Lights change brightness when appliances run

• You hear buzzing or crackling

• Outlets or switches feel warm

• Breakers repeatedly trip

• The problem began after a storm

• You smell something burning

Flickering lights are easy to dismiss, but they can sometimes be an early warning sign of a larger electrical problem.

Thomas Edison Electric provides electrical troubleshooting and repair services throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.