Have you ever been relaxing in your home when suddenly, the lights start flickering? It can be an unsettling experience, and it’s natural to wonder what’s causing it. Lights flickering can be a nuisance, but it can also be a sign of a more serious electrical issue.

Here at Ryan Electric in Kansas City, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners solve their electrical issues. we’ll delve into some of the most common reasons why your lights might be flickering, and what you can do to fix the problem.

Common Causes of Lights Flickering

There are several reasons why your lights might be flickering. Here are a few of the most common culprits:

• Loose Light Bulbs: This is a surprisingly common cause of lights flickering. If the bulb isn’t screwed in tightly, it can create a poor connection and cause the light to flicker on and off.
• Loose Wiring: Loose wiring within the wall switch, fixture, or even within the house’s electrical system can cause flickering lights. This is a more serious issue than a loose bulb and should be addressed by a qualified electrician.
• Circuit Overload: If you’re using too many appliances on one circuit, it can overload the circuit and cause the lights to flicker. Try turning off some appliances in the room and see if the flickering stops.
• Dimmer Switch Issues: Dimmer switches can sometimes malfunction and cause lights to flicker. If you notice flickering only on lights controlled by a dimmer switch, the dimmer itself might be the culprit.
• Power Fluctuations: Occasionally, fluctuations in the power grid can cause lights to flicker momentarily. This is usually a temporary issue and shouldn’t be a cause for concern.

Addressing Common Causes of Flickering Lights

Now that we’ve identified some of the most common reasons for lights flickering, let’s delve into how to address them:

• Loose Light Bulbs: This is the easiest fix. Simply turn off the light switch and wait for the bulb to cool down if necessary. Tighten the bulb securely in the socket and turn the light back on. If the flickering persists, then the bulb itself might be faulty and require replacement.
• Circuit Overload: Identify the circuit that’s overloaded by checking your breaker box. Turn off some non-essential appliances in the room or on the circuit causing the overload. If the flickering stops, then you know you need to redistribute the load across different circuits. Important note: Avoid overloading circuits as this can pose a fire hazard. If you suspect overloading or are unsure about managing your electrical circuits, consult a qualified electrician.
• Dimmer Switch Issues: If the flickering only occurs with lights controlled by a dimmer switch, try replacing the dimmer switch with a new one. Ensure the new dimmer switch is compatible with the type of bulb you’re using. If replacing the dimmer doesn’t solve the issue, there might be underlying electrical problems requiring a professional electrician’s attention.

Less Common Causes of Flickering Lights

While the above reasons are frequently encountered, there are other, less common causes of lights flickering:

• Faulty Appliances: A malfunctioning appliance can sometimes cause flickering lights, especially if it draws a significant amount of power when starting up. Try unplugging appliances one by one to see if the flickering stops. If disconnecting a particular appliance eliminates the flickering, you’ve identified the culprit. Have the appliance inspected by a qualified repair technician.
• Old or Faulty Wiring: Over time, electrical wiring can deteriorate and become loose or damaged. This can lead to flickering lights and is a fire hazard. If you suspect old or faulty wiring, don’t attempt to fix it yourself. Contact a licensed electrician to diagnose and address the issue.
• Ground Faults: A ground fault occurs when electricity escapes its intended path and travels to the grounding system of your home. This can cause flickering lights and potentially trigger safety features like ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). If you suspect a ground fault, it’s crucial to call a qualified electrician to identify and fix the problem immediately.

Lights Still Flickering? Call Ryan Electric Today!

At Ryan Electric, we understand the importance of a safe and reliable electrical system. Our experienced and licensed electricians can diagnose the cause of your lights flickering and provide a safe and lasting solution. We offer a variety of electrical services, including troubleshooting, repairs, installations, and maintenance. We are committed to providing our customers with exceptional service and quality workmanship. Contact us today so we can get help return your home back into your family’s brightest haven.