Why Are My Lights Flickering?

June 25, 2020

While the occasional flicker is no cause for alarm, persistent light flickering demands further investigation. Not only a nuisance for causing visual impairment, but continuously flickering lights can also indicate a larger issue with your home’s electrical system.If you’ve noticed a persistent light flickering in your home, don’t hesitate to contact Randy’s Electric to schedule a repair or replacement appointment. Our knowledgeable electricians are capable of replacing or installing virtually any light fixture to restore fully functional lighting in your home!

Common Reasons for Flickering Lights

There are many different reasons that can cause one’s lights to flicker, and not all of them are serious in nature. Below are just a few of the common reasons for flickering lights that can be easily resolved:

  • Loose Bulbs: Lights can start to flicker if the bulbs are not screwed in tightly enough or are the incorrect type for a dimmer switch. Troubleshoot the problem by shutting off the light to ensure the bulb is the correct type and is properly screwed into the bulb base.
  • Loose Plug: If your lights are flickering, the problem may be that your plug is only partially connected to the outlet. Check to see if your plug is secure and snug in the desired outlet to restore light functionality.
  • LED Lights: When using LED or fluorescent bulbs, lights may flicker more when initially turned on. If flickering persists, you may need to switch out the bulbs for a different type to avoid the problem.
  • Faulty Fixture: The problem may be the light fixture itself, in which case you’ll likely need replacement. Consult with your trusted electrician to understand the options that may be available to you.

While these common reasons for flickering lights are easy to resolve on your own, it’s important to recognize when issues are more severe and require professional attention. Read on to discover when it’s time to call in an electrician to handle the job safely.

When to Contact an Electrician for Flickering Lights

Sometimes, flickering lights can indicate a more serious underlying issue with your home’s electrical systems. For example, if you notice your lights are dimming or flickering after turning on an appliance, it could indicate that the voltage in your home is not in compliance with standard regulations. This poses a huge risk to homeowners and requires immediate attention from a trained electrician.In addition to insufficient voltage, homeowners should check if the wiring in their circuit breakers is too loose. According to the National Fire Protection Association, loose wiring is one of the top three causes of structure fires in the United States. If you notice loose wiring in your home, it’s time to call in a professional to ensure the safety and functionality of your home’s electrical systems.

Randy’s Electric for Your Flickering Lights Solutions!

Especially in cases where flickering lights are accompanied by more serious problems, it’s strongly recommended that you seek a knowledgeable electrician to address the issue. Randy’s Electric provides comprehensive electrical services to help Minneapolis homes stay safe and well-lit. From fixture replacement to rewiring and electrical panel replacement, our team has the skills and expertise to solve virtually any electrical problem. Contact our team today to schedule an electrical service for your home!