Are Flickering Lights Dangerous?
Flickering or dimming lights are not just frustrating — they can indicate underlying electrical issues that need attention. Whether it’s a brief flicker when a large appliance turns on or a constant dimming throughout your house, understanding the causes can help you determine when it’s time to call a professional.
Gulf Coast Electric is here to demystify the sometimes spooky flickering of lights. Here are the top reasons your lights may be flickering or dimming.
Loose Or Faulty Bulbs
One of the simplest causes of flickering lights is a loose or faulty bulb. If your lightbulb isn’t screwed in tightly, it can cause intermittent flickering. In other cases, the bulb itself might be on the verge of burning out. Check that your bulbs are secure and functioning properly, especially with older bulbs that may need replacing.
Incompatible Dimmers And LEDs
If you’re using dimmable LED lights, flickering can occur when the dimmer switch isn’t compatible with the bulbs. Many older dimmers were designed for incandescent bulbs, and they don’t handle the lower wattage of LEDs well. Replacing your dimmer switch with one designed for LED lighting can resolve this issue.
Overloaded Circuits
Are your lights flickering when you turn on an appliance like a vacuum, hair dryer or air conditioner? If so, this could be due to an overloaded circuit.
Large appliances pull a significant amount of power, and when they’re on the same circuit as your lights, the voltage drop can cause flickering or dimming. This is especially common with older homes that might not have the capacity to handle modern power demands.
Loose Wiring Or Connections
Loose wiring in your home’s electrical system can cause flickering lights, and it’s more dangerous than you might think. Electrical connections that are loose or frayed increase the risk of electrical fires. If you notice flickering throughout your home or from multiple fixtures, you should have an electrician inspect your wiring immediately.
Bonus: Voltage Fluctuations
If your home is experiencing frequent voltage fluctuations, you might notice lights dimming or brightening randomly. This can happen when there is a problem with the power coming into your home or when your electrical panel is overloaded. Voltage fluctuations can damage appliances over time, so it’s crucial to address this issue with a licensed professional.
Electrical Repairs In Destin, FL
By identifying the reason behind your flickering or dimming lights, you can address small problems before they become big issues. If you’re unsure or feel the problem may be serious, it’s always best to call in a professional electrician from Gulf Coast Electric to inspect your home’s electrical system.
