Why Are My Lights Flickering? Common Causes and Solutions

Flickering lights can be both frustrating and concerning for homeowners. A light that
occasionally flickers might seem like a minor inconvenience, but frequent or severe flickering
often signals deeper issues within your electrical system. While some causes are harmless and
easy to fix, like a loose bulb, others can indicate potentially hazardous conditions, such as
faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. Ignoring these signs could lead to costly repairs, appliance
damage, or even electrical fires.

Understanding the underlying causes and knowing when to act is essential for maintaining a
safe and functional home. Whether it’s a simple fix or a situation requiring professional
intervention, identifying the root cause of flickering lights ensures the safety, efficiency, and
reliability of your electrical system.

When Are Flickering Lights Dangerous?

Flickering lights can be dangerous when caused by serious electrical issues such as faulty
wiring, overloaded circuits, or voltage fluctuations. These problems can lead to electrical fires,
appliance damage, safety risks for your home, and even health concerns. Prolonged exposure
to flickering lights can cause eye strain, headaches, and discomfort, especially for individuals
sensitive to light changes. Warning signs like burning smells, buzzing sounds, sparking, or
frequent breaker trips require immediate attention from a licensed electrician. Even persistent
flickering without other signs shouldn’t be ignored, as it could signal deeper issues. Don’t take
chances, call Gravity Electrical Solutions at 403-879-2345 to diagnose and resolve the issue
quickly and safely.

Common Causes of Flickering Lights

• Loose Bulbs or Fixtures– A loose bulb or fixture connection is often the simplest cause
  of flickering lights. Ensure the bulb is securely screwed into the socket. If the flickering
  continues, inspect the fixture for loose wiring or damage and consider replacing it if
  necessary.
• Voltage Fluctuations– Voltage fluctuations often cause lights to flicker when high powered appliances, like air conditioners or washing machines, draw significant power and temporarily reduce voltage. Installing dedicated circuits for these appliances or consulting your local electrician to assess your home’s electrical load can help resolve the issue.
• Wiring Issues– Wiring issues, such as loose or frayed connections, are a serious cause
  of flickering lights and can lead to power inconsistencies or fire hazards. Always contact
  a licensed electrician to inspect and repair faulty wiring, as it requires professional
  handling.
• Worn or Faulty Light Switches– A worn or faulty light switch can disrupt the flow of
  electricity to your bulb, causing it to flicker. If the switch feels loose, makes unusual
  noises, or doesn’t work consistently, replacing it should solve the problem.
• Overloaded Circuit– An overloaded circuit with too many devices or fixtures can cause
  lights to flicker. To fix this, redistribute devices across multiple circuits or upgrade your
  electrical system to accommodate higher power demands.
• Issues with the Power Grid– Flickering lights aren’t always caused by issues in your
  home. Problems with the power grid, such as damaged utility lines or faulty
  transformers, can disrupt your electricity supply. In such cases, contact your utility
  company to report the issue and have it resolved.

If you have any questions about your flickering lights or need professional assistance, don’t
hesitate to call Gravity Electrical Solutions, your trusted Calgary electrician, for expert advice
and reliable service.

Preventative Measures for Flickering Lights

Preventive measures can help keep your home’s electrical system safe and efficient. Regular
electrical inspections are essential for identifying potential issues before they become serious.
Avoid overloading circuits with too many devices to prevent power surges and flickering lights. If
your home has an older electrical panel, consider upgrading it to handle modern energy
demands. Additionally, using high-quality light bulbs and fixtures can reduce the risk of
connection issues and ensure consistent performance.

When To Call a Professional Electrician About Your Flickering Lights

While some flickering issues can be resolved with simple fixes, others may indicate serious
electrical problems. You should call your local electrician if flickering lights persist after replacing
bulbs and inspecting fixtures, as this could indicate a deeper problem. Other warning signs
include burning smells, sparks, buzzing sounds, multiple lights flickering simultaneously, or
frequent circuit breaker trips. These issues often point to serious electrical problems that require
professional attention to ensure the safety and functionality of your home.

Flickering lights can be a minor inconvenience or a warning sign of a more serious electrical
issue. Understanding the common causes and addressing them promptly is key to maintaining a
safe and efficient home. From loose bulbs and voltage fluctuations to wiring problems or overloaded circuits, resolving these issues early can prevent potential hazards and costly repairs. If you’re dealing with flickering lights or have questions about your electrical system, trust Gravity Electrical Solutions to provide expert advice and reliable service. Contact us via our online form or call us at 403-879-2345 for all your electrical needs!