A flickering light can be annoying, but is it something to worry about? Sometimes, it’s just a loose bulb. Other times, it could point to a bigger electrical issue.
If you’ve been noticing flickering lights in your home in here’s what could be causing it-and what you can do about it.
Start with the Simple Fix: The Bulb
Before jumping to worst-case scenarios, check the bulb first.
- Loose bulbs – If the bulb isn’t fully screwed in, it might not be making a proper connection. Try tightening it.
- Old or faulty bulbs – Some bulbs flicker as they wear out. Swap in a new one and see if that solves the problem.
- CFL or fluorescent bulbs – These types tend to flicker naturally. If it bothers you, consider switching to LEDs.
If the problem isn’t the bulb, let’s look at what else could be going on.
Do Your Lights Flicker When an Appliance Turns On?
If your lights dim when you turn on a microwave, AC unit, or vacuum, your circuit may be overloaded.
- Why it happens: Large appliances draw extra power when they start up, which can cause momentary flickering.
- What to do: Try using fewer high-powered devices at the same time or plugging them into a different circuit. If it keeps happening, your home in, may need a dedicated circuit or an electrical panel upgrade.
Is Your Wiring in Good Shape?
If flickering happens randomly, loose or aging wiring could be the culprit. This is especially common in older homes where electrical connections may have worn down over time.
- Signs of bad wiring:
- Flickering or dimming lights throughout the house.
- A buzzing or crackling sound near switches or outlets.
- A faint burning smell (this is serious-turn off power and call an electrician).
Faulty wiring isn’t just inconvenient-it’s a fire risk. If you suspect wiring issues in your Richmond home, it’s best to have an electrician check it out.
Is Your Electrical Panel Outdated?
Your electrical panel is what distributes power throughout your home. If it’s old or overloaded, it might not be supplying steady power, leading to flickering lights.
- Signs you may need a panel upgrade:
- Your home is 20+ years old with its original panel.
- Breakers trip frequently.
- You’ve added new appliances, and now flickering is worse.
An upgraded panel ensures steady, reliable power for your home. If yours is struggling to keep up, it may be time to have it inspected.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Not all flickering lights are an emergency, but some are a sign of a bigger electrical problem. Here’s how to tell the difference.
- Probably nothing to worry about:
- Flickering only happens occasionally.
- It stops when you tighten or replace the bulb.
- It only happens when you turn on a large appliance.
- Call an electrician if:
- Lights flicker in multiple rooms or throughout the house.
- The flickering gets worse over time.
- You hear buzzing, see sparks, or smell something burning.
Bottom Line: Should You Be Worried About Flickering Lights?
Most of the time, flickering lights have a simple fix-but sometimes, they can signal a more serious issue. Start by checking the bulb, then pay attention to when and where the flickering happens.
If it’s becoming more frequent, affecting multiple areas, or happening along with other electrical problems, it’s worth having a professional take a look.
Now that you know what to watch for, you’ll be able to spot the warning signs and take action before it turns into a bigger issue.
Need a Professional Opinion? Give Us a Call!
If your lights keep flickering and you’re not sure why, don’t wait until it becomes a bigger issue. Dwell Home Services is here to help homeowners in Richmond, with expert troubleshooting, repairs, and electrical upgrades. Give us a call at (804) 409-3776.
