If your lights flicker when you turn something on, you may wonder whether the problem is normal. A brief change in brightness can happen when certain appliances start. However, frequent or noticeable flickering can point to an electrical problem.
Your home’s electrical system supplies power to everything from refrigerators and air conditioners to televisions and lighting. Large appliances can create a sudden increase in electrical demand when they start. In some situations, that demand can cause your lights to dim or flicker.
So, why do my lights flicker when I turn something on? Let’s look at some common causes.
A Large Appliance May Draw More Power
Some appliances require a significant amount of electricity when they start. Air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, pumps, and other motor-driven equipment can create a temporary increase in demand.
You might notice a quick flicker when one of these appliances turns on. A brief change may not indicate a serious problem.
Pay closer attention if the flickering lasts several seconds or happens frequently. Significant changes in brightness can indicate an electrical issue that deserves attention.
Your Circuit May Have Too Much Demand
Another reason your lights flicker when you turn something on involves the circuit itself.
Every circuit in your home has limits. Several appliances operating on the same circuit can increase the total electrical demand.
Kitchens often experience this issue because homeowners use several high-demand appliances in the same area. Garages, workshops, home offices, and laundry rooms can also place significant demands on individual circuits.
A circuit that struggles with its electrical load may also trip the breaker.
A Loose Connection Could Cause Flickering
Loose electrical connections can cause lights to flicker. These connections can occur at outlets, switches, light fixtures, electrical boxes, or other points in your home’s wiring.
Temperature changes, normal use, and previous electrical work can contribute to loose connections over time.
Don’t attempt to tighten or repair electrical wiring yourself. An electrician can inspect the connections and determine whether they need attention.
The Light Bulb or Fixture Could Be the Problem
Not every flickering light points to a wiring issue.
A loose bulb can cause intermittent flickering. A failing bulb can create the same problem. LED bulbs can also flicker when they don’t work properly with certain dimmer switches.
Start by checking whether the problem affects one light or several lights.
If only one fixture flickers, try replacing the bulb with a compatible bulb. Continued flickering may point to a problem with the fixture, switch, dimmer, or wiring.
When several lights flicker at once, the problem may involve the electrical system rather than one fixture.
Pay Attention to When the Flickering Happens
The timing of the flickering can provide useful information.
For example, you may notice your lights flicker when:
- The air conditioner starts
- The refrigerator turns on
- The microwave begins running
- A large power tool starts
- A pump turns on
- Another high-demand appliance starts
- Demand on the electrical grid is high such as during hot days
Keep track of what happens when the flickering occurs. That information can help an electrician identify the source of the problem.
When Should You Worry About Flickering Lights?
Occasional, minor flickering can have a simple explanation. Persistent or severe flickering deserves more attention.
Call an electrician if you notice flickering along with:
- Buzzing or crackling sounds
- Warm outlets or switches
- Discolored outlets
- Burning smells
- Sparks
- Frequently tripped breakers
- Lights that dim significantly
- Flickering in several areas of your home
These signs can point to a larger electrical issue.
If you ever smell burning, see sparks or have any immediate safety concerns you should immediately call 911.
What Should You Do If Your Lights Flicker?
Start by determining whether the problem affects one light or several. Check the bulb if only one fixture flickers. Make sure you use a bulb that matches the fixture and any dimmer switch.
Next, pay attention to what happens when the flickering occurs. Does it happen when the air conditioner starts? Does it happen when you turn on a kitchen appliance? Does the problem happen even when you aren’t using a large appliance?
That information can help narrow down the possible cause.
Don’t ignore persistent flickering. An electrician can inspect the relevant circuits, connections, fixtures, and other electrical components.
Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Electrical System
Your home’s electrical system should provide reliable power for your everyday needs. Flickering lights can sometimes come from a simple bulb or fixture problem. In other cases, the issue can involve a circuit, connection, or another part of the electrical system.
If your lights flicker when you turn something on, pay attention to when and how often it happens. A professional electrical inspection can help identify the cause and determine whether your home needs repairs or other electrical improvements.
If you’re concerned about flickering lights in your home, call Jason Wright Electric, your local concierge electrician. We can help identify the cause and recommend the appropriate solution.