Flickering lights are more than just a minor inconvenience. While it might seem easy to let it slide, frequent or unusual flickering could indicate an underlying issue. Ignoring it could lead to worse problems down the road, from electrical fires to full-blown system breakdowns. Understanding when flickering lights signal a call to an electrician is key to keeping your home safe and functional.

Common Causes of Flickering Lights

A simple flicker now and then isn’t cause for concern. However, if lights are consistently flickering or dimming, it’s time to start paying attention. Some of the most common causes include:

Loose Bulbs or Fixtures

If a bulb isn’t properly secured or the fixture’s connection is loose, it can cause intermittent flickering. Tighten the bulb or fixture to see if that solves the issue.

Faulty Light Bulbs

Sometimes, it’s as simple as a bulb nearing the end of its life. CFLs or LEDs tend to flicker as they start to burn out. Try replacing the bulb before looking into more serious causes.

Old or Frayed Wiring

Wiring in poor condition or that’s lost its insulation over time can cause fluctuations in voltage. These fluctuations can create flickering or even make lights go dark suddenly. If sparks accompany the flickering, it’s time to call in an expert immediately.

Voltage Fluctuations

Larger appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators, which cycle on and off, can draw a large amount of power and momentarily affect the lighting. If this happens only when these appliances start up, it might be time for a better distribution of your electrical load.

When It’s More Than Just Flickering: Major Indicators

Occasionally, flickering lights are simply a nuisance, but there are signs that indicate something far more serious, which makes calling an electrician unavoidable:

Flickering Is Consistent Across the House

If multiple lights throughout your home are flickering in unison, it’s a sign that the problem might be with the main power supply. This could be a wiring issue in the circuit or an overloaded panel. Either way, this requires professional attention to diagnose.

Sparks, Smoke, or Burning Smells

If flickering is accompanied by signs of heat, such as sparks, smoke, or the smell of burning, your home could be at risk of an electrical fire. Turn off all power and immediately contact a licensed electrician to address the root cause.

Frequent Circuit Breaker Trips

If your breaker frequently trips and you notice flickering around the same time, your electrical panel might be overwhelmed or malfunctioning. An overloaded panel or faulty connections need to be checked by an expert to make sure it’s safe to operate.

Dimmed Lights When Appliances Are Used

If turning on large appliances makes the lights noticeably dimmer, there could be an issue with your home’s ability to handle electrical loads effectively. It could be a wiring issue or a sign that your system requires an upgrade to accommodate modern needs.

Electrical System Age Matters

As your home’s electrical system ages, wiring and components can degrade, leading to problems like flickering lights. Homes built before the 1980s often have outdated wiring, which may be insufficient for modern appliances and technology. When combined with consistent flickering, it’s smart to have the system evaluated by a professional.

Looking to address flickering lights in your home? Call our experts at Kazar’s Electric Inc. today for reliable electrical services. Contact us to get your electrical system checked.