Why Are My House Lights Flickering?

Flickering incandescent lights sometimes point to electrical system problems.

Flickering lights signal something is not quite right. It might be a simple problem. It also could be a symptom of a dangerous problem. Frequently, it is simply a device on the circuit pulling more power than the circuit can supply for a few moments.

Loose Bulbs

If incandescent bulbs are loose in the sockets, the connection can be broken for a moment, causing flicker. A vibration as simple as walking across the floor can cause the problem.

Poor Connections

Wires that were not twisted together properly may have poor connections. Vibrations cause the connection to momentarily break, causing flicker.

Lights Dim

Incandescent lights that suddenly decrease in brightness for a moment or longer can indicate a heavy load on the circuit, such as a motor that has turned on. Refrigerators and washing machines are often culprits in homes with older wiring.

Pests

Sometimes pests like squirrels or rats can chew wire insulation, causing shorts in the wiring that make the lights flicker. This is a potentially dangerous problem.

Improper Wiring

A number of improper wiring issues can cause the lights to dim or flicker. These problems range from mildly annoying to potentially being fire hazards. Older aluminum wiring is often suspect and should be inspected.

Solutions

Check and tighten all bulbs in their sockets. Ensure that circuits are not close to being overloaded. Consult a qualified electrician and have your home inspected for dangerous wiring problems.

References

• "Wiring Simplified," 40th Edition; Richter, Schwan, Hartwell; 2002
• MMG Insurance: Flickering Lights

Resources

• The Circuit Detective: Home Electrical Diagnostic Tree