Flickering lights can be annoying—but they might also signal a bigger electrical issue. While some cases are simple to fix, others require the expertise of a professional electrician. Here’s a breakdown of the most common causes of flickering lights and what you can do to fix them.

Loose or Faulty Light Bulbs

A flickering light may be as simple as a loose bulb. If you’re experiencing occasional flickers from a single fixture, try tightening the bulb. If that doesn’t work, swap it out with a new one. LED bulbs, in particular, may flicker if they’re incompatible with your dimmer switch.

How to Fix It: Make sure the bulb is screwed in tightly. If using a dimmer, ensure it’s compatible with your LED bulbs.

Overloaded Circuits

Do your lights flicker when you turn on a high-power appliance like a microwave or air conditioner? If so, your circuit may be overloaded. This happens when too many devices draw power from the same electrical line.

How to Fix It: If flickering is occasional, you might just need to redistribute your appliances to different circuits. However, frequent flickering may mean your electrical system isn’t equipped to handle your power needs. In this case, an electrician can upgrade your panel or add a dedicated circuit.

Loose Wiring Connections

Wiring connections can become loose over time, especially in older homes. This can cause inconsistent power flow, leading to flickering lights. Loose wiring isn’t just annoying—it’s dangerous and can increase the risk of electrical fires.

How to Fix It: If you suspect loose wiring, do not attempt a DIY fix. Turn off the power and contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Voltage Fluctuations

If your lights flicker throughout your home, you may be dealing with voltage fluctuations. This can be caused by faulty wiring, issues with your utility provider, or a failing electrical panel.

How to Fix It: Use a multimeter to check if your home’s voltage is fluctuating beyond the normal range (120V ± 5%). If it is, an electrician can diagnose and address the issue.

Faulty Light Switches or Dimmers

Dimmer switches, in particular, can cause flickering if they are low-quality or incompatible with your light bulbs. Even regular light switches can wear out over time and fail to make a solid connection.

How to Fix It: If the flickering occurs when adjusting a dimmer, try replacing it with one that’s compatible with your bulbs. If a standard switch is the issue, an electrician can safely replace it.

When to Call an Electrician

While some flickering light issues have simple fixes, others indicate serious electrical problems. If you experience:

• Frequent flickering across multiple rooms
• A burning smell or buzzing sound from outlets
• Sparks or discolored outlets
• Light flickering that worsens over time

…it’s time to call a professional. At Estevez Electric LLC, we provide expert electrical services, from diagnosing flickering lights to full home rewiring. Contact us today for a safe and reliable solution!