Flickering lights can be annoying and sometimes even concerning. While an occasional flicker might not be a big deal, frequent or persistent flickering can indicate a more serious electrical issue. In this post, we’ll cover the common causes of flickering lights and what you can do to fix them.
Loose Bulbs
The most common and easily fixable cause of flickering lights is a loose bulb. If the bulb isn’t screwed in tightly, it can lose its connection to the fixture.
Solution: Turn off the light, tighten the bulb, and turn it back on. If the flickering continues, try replacing the bulb.
Faulty Light Switches
A flickering light could also result from a faulty switch or a poor connection between the switch and the light fixture.
Solution: Test the switch by wiggling it gently. If the flickering worsens, it’s time to replace the switch. This is a quick fix for a licensed electrician in Collingwood or your area.
Voltage Fluctuations
If you notice flickering lights along with dimming or surging power in other appliances, it could be due to voltage fluctuations. This often happens when large appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners draw too much power.
Solution: Have an electrician in Barrie or your area inspect your home’s electrical system to ensure it can handle the load. Installing a dedicated circuit for large appliances can help.
Overloaded Circuits
If too many devices are plugged into a single circuit, it can overload the system and cause flickering.
Solution: Unplug unnecessary devices and redistribute your electrical load. If the issue persists, an electrician in Wasaga Beach or your area can upgrade your home’s wiring or add new circuits.
Loose Wiring
Loose or damaged wiring is a more serious cause of flickering lights. It can lead to electrical arcing, which is not only a fire hazard but also dangerous to handle on your own.
Solution: Contact an electrician immediately if you suspect you need electrical wiring repair. This is not a DIY fix.
Issues with the Power Grid
Sometimes, the problem isn’t in your home but with the power supply from your utility provider. Flickering lights caused by external issues might coincide with outages or other grid-related problems.
Solution: Check with your local utility company for updates on outages or grid maintenance. If the issue is external, they will need to resolve it.
When to Call an Electrician
While some causes of flickering lights are minor, others can signal dangerous electrical issues that require immediate attention. At Affordable Comfort, our licensed electricians can quickly diagnose and repair the problem, ensuring your home is safe and functioning properly.
Prevent Electrical Problems with Regular Inspections
Routine electrical inspections can catch potential issues before they become major problems. Ask us about our electrical maintenance services to keep your home’s system safe and reliable.
If flickering lights are disrupting your peace of mind, Affordable Comfort is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair. We make home comfort easy, one light bulb at a time!
