If you’re a fan of horror movies, you know that whenever the lights flicker, it means a ghost is about to pop out of the shadows. But in real life, flickering lights mean that you need to call an electrician, not Ghostbusters.
Why are my lights flickering? In some cases, flickering lights are nothing to fret about, but in others, they can indicate a serious problem. Take a look at the top causes of flickering lights below, and then call us for electrician services in Campbell, CA.
Why Are My Lights Flickering? The Top Causes in Campbell, California
Before you start worrying about your electrical system, know that it’s sometimes normal for your lights to flicker a bit.
For example, fluorescent bulbs flicker for a second when first switched on. Lights can also flicker if a bulb is loose. If that’s the case, simply tighten the bulb, and you’re good to go.
However, if the flickering persists, it’s time to do more in-depth troubleshooting. Here’s what to look for:
1. Dimmer Switch Issues
Do you use a dimmer switch in your Campbell home? Dimmer switches are handy for setting the mood, but not all switches work with all types of bulbs. For instance, if you’re using LED bulbs with a non-LED dimmer, you can expect some flickering when you turn on the lights.
Usually, replacing the bulb with a compatible bulb will stop the flickering. If it doesn’t, you might have a faulty light switch.
2. Old or Loose Wiring
Why are my lights flickering? If you own an older home and have never updated the electrical system, it could have outdated wiring. Wires degrade and become loose over time, resulting in an inconsistent power supply and flickering lights.
If you see damaged or loose wiring, you definitely need an electrician’s help ASAP. If you don’t fix the problem promptly, it can lead to a dangerous fire.
3. Voltage Fluctuations
Most homes in Campbell run on a 120-volt circuit, and the voltage stays fairly steady. However, if the voltage regularly shoots to 125 or more, it indicates a major problem with your electrical system.
Signs that you’re having voltage fluctuations include lights that dim randomly, bulbs that seem to burn out faster than normal, and lights that flicker when you’re running large appliances like the dishwasher. An electrician can test your system with a voltmeter as follows:
- Connect the positive terminal to the positive end of a circuit.
- Connect the negative terminal to the circuit’s negative end.
- Set the knob to VAC or ACV to test AC circuits, which are what most homes run on.
- Select a setting above the expected maximum voltage for the circuit.
- Insert the black and red test leads into the voltmeter.
- Touch the black probe to the left hole on an outlet and the red probe to the right hole. Inspect the display on the voltmeter to get your result.
Why are my lights flickering? Call our pros at ARC Electric Heating and AC Repairs for a voltage test, and we’ll help you find the culprit behind those irritating flickering lights.
4. A Circuit Overload
Do your lights flicker when you run several appliances at once? This is a surefire sign of an overloaded circuit.
Circuits become overloaded when they can’t handle the power demands of connected appliances. This problem is common in older homes with outdated electrical systems. To fix the issue, you’ll need to either move an appliance to a different circuit or upgrade your electrical system.
5. A Bad Breaker
Your home’s circuit breaker is designed to protect against power surges and electrical fires. If your circuit breaker is going bad, you’ll have more problems than just flickering lights. For example, other signs that your breaker needs attention include:
- Hearing buzzing or crackling noises coming from the breaker.
- Smelling something burning around the breaker.
- Feeling that outlets are very hot to the touch or are melting.
- Seeing frayed wires inside the breaker.
If you’re having any of these issues, call our certified electrician right away to avert a fire risk.
Why Are My Lights Flickering? Call Our Electrician in Campbell for Answers
Are you still wondering, “Why are my lights flickering?” The cause could be anything from a loose bulb to a faulty electrical system. If your lights flicker constantly, the smart thing to do is call an electrician.
At ARC Electric Heating and AC Repairs, we provide all of these services, plus helpful outdoor lighting tips for safety and style. Give us a call to book your service in Campbell today!