While flickering lights might seem like a small nuisance, the underlying problems that lead to annoying flashing and dimming can be serious safety hazards.
As the top electrician in Boulder, CO, Salzano Services addresses the typical causes of flickering lights with precision repairs that ensure your safety and energy efficiency.
Read on below as we discuss the details involved with what causes lights to flicker.
Common Causes of Flickering Lights
Several things may cause flickering lights, including the following.
1. Voltage Fluctuation
Variations in your power supply that cause flickering can occur because of trouble with an overloaded grid or improperly sized or malfunctioning wiring within your home.
This problem can destroy the interior circuits of sophisticated electronics and generally shorten the lifespan of large, expensive appliances. A licensed electrician can assess whether unsteady current trouble comes from inside your home’s electrical system or the outside power grid.
2. Electrical Surges
Electrical surges are sudden spikes in electricity that often occur during storms, power outages, or when high-demand appliances are in use. Common causes include external forces like lightning or internal problems like faulty appliances or outdated wiring.
Repeated surges can harm your appliances and electronics while creating fire hazards. Boulder residents should consider surge protection systems and consult an electrician to address the root causes.
3. Loose Wiring
What causes lights to flicker? Poor connections impair the steady flow of the electrical current. Normal wear and tear, poor installation, and destructive pest species activity are all typical causes of loose wiring.
This issue can present serious fire hazards due to overheating of flammable materials near wires. If you suspect loose wiring, turn off the problem circuit and call an electrician immediately.
4. Circuit Overload
Too many devices drawing power from the same circuit can cause lights to flicker or dim. Many older Boulder homes have electrical systems that are inadequate for the power demands of modern appliances.
An electrician can install additional circuits or upgrade your home’s electrical panel to handle today’s electrical demands.
5. Faulty Switch
A malfunctioning switch can cause lights to flicker intermittently in individual fixtures. Wear and tear over time degrades the internal components of switches, which causes poor connections.
While they might seem minor, faulty switches can spark or overheat.
6. Bulb Degradation
Bulb degradation involves the natural wear of light bulbs over time. Fluorescent and LED bulbs are durable, but they are prone to flickering as they age — especially if they’re incompatible with dimmer switches.
If a fresh bulb flickers, the problem probably lies somewhere deeper in the fixture or your home’s wiring.
How To Fix Flickering Lights
Now that we’ve discussed what causes lights to flicker, let’s look at remedies.
Homeowners can troubleshoot basic causes by tightening loose bulbs and replacing defective bulbs. However, any work that involves working directly on your electrical system requires professional intervention. Here’s how qualified, licensed electricians handle these situations:
- Comprehensive diagnostic inspection. With advanced diagnostic tools, an expert uses their skill and experience to carefully examine your system’s wiring, circuits, and electrical panel to identify the root causes of trouble.
- Upgrades or repairs. A professional will ensure your system is safe and up to code, whether the work involves resolving circuit overloads, repairing loose wiring, or installing surge protection systems.
- Preventative measures. Expert electricians will recommend regular maintenance and inspections to catch and resolve potential problems early.
DIY attempts to fix electrical problems are always inherently dangerous. Rely on professional expertise not only for safety but also to save time and prevent further property damage.
Why You Should Never Ignore Flickering Lights in Boulder, CO
Without expert attention, flickering lights in your home can lead to:
- Fire hazards. Problems like loose wiring and circuit overload inevitably generate heat and increase the risk of electrical fire.
- Damage to appliances and devices. Ongoing voltage fluctuation or electrical surges often damage or destroy electronics and appliances.
- Higher repair costs. Unaddressed small electrical issues don’t fix themselves — they typically escalate into larger and more expensive problems.
Count on Salzano Services in Boulder, CO
Salzano Services has served the Boulder community since 1995, providing expert electrical services with a daily commitment to safety, reliability, and integrity.
What causes lights to flicker? Now that we’ve discussed this common symptom of electrical trouble, look at our other posts for more useful information on topics like indoor lighting installation tips.
Salzano Services is here to light up your property with professionalism and care. Contact us today to schedule service and enjoy the Salzano difference!