Where some may not notice the subtle strobe effect, to others, the flickering lights can be an annoying distraction. If there is an issue with the circuitry or light fixtures, the flickering signs indicate it. Should the issue not be corrected, it could lead to serious safety concerns, depending on the underlying source of the problem. To elaborate on the flickering lights, we at Peterkin Electric would like to take this opportunity today.

Electrical Connection or Power Use Problems

The amount of power that comes in through the lines that lead into your home will cause all lights to flicker to some extent. Regularly flickering lights points to connection or power use problems. An issue with the power supply is suggested when the situational flickering lights are caused when the major appliances power up. The appliance powering up is siphoning the electric supply from the lights in order to power on. The issue indicates the amperage is at the maximum, and this is usually a temporary problem.

Home Breaker Box Problems

Another problem is brewing, which is likely either the electrical panel or the meter that is the problem if the flickering is unrelated to large appliances kickstarting on. Should the light in a room dim but other lights don’t, it is the light bulb itself or the socket. Confirming a bad bulb by flickering light isolated to one room, you can replace the bulb but if it doesn’t resolve the flickering, an electrician will need to look at the circuits.

Troubleshooting LED & Fluorescent Light Bulb Flickering

Depending on the type of bulb, troubleshooting flickering lights can be problematic. Though LED is the upgraded bulb and made with high-quality standards, both LED bulbs and fluorescent light bulbs flicker. Since they are different types of bulbs though, and flicker for different reasons, there are separate ways to fix the flicker. Usually, due to the starter in an old fixture wearing out, or the light bulb at the end of its use, is commonly why the fluorescent bulbs flicker. You can test both the bulb and fixture to determine which is the culprit and get it replaced if you have the equipment and are electrical savvy. Troubleshooting the LED flicker is not too challenging. A warning that the light bulb needs replacing is the dark spots. However, the voltage changes in the power supply to the light can be from the flicker. Like a dimmer switch, for example, the light bulb isn’t compatible with the connecting switch.

How to Fix Flickering Lights

Though nearly impossible to eliminate flickering lights, they can at least be significantly reduced in frequency as well as avoiding putting your home at risk of fires and other hazards regarding the wiring and circuits. In this case, replacing the fixtures in fluorescent lights is the best solution. With the more energy efficient LED light, these lights are being phased out. The power supply is the best place to start should the LED lights flicker. Where these repairs can get a little tricky, it might be best to contact an electrician

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Call the experts of Peterkin Electric and let our electricians find the source if the flickering lights continue to be bothersome and our experts will find the optimal solution.