Flickering Lights? What It Means and When to Call an Electrician
Flickering lights are more than just a minor annoyance; they can be a warning sign of an underlying electrical problem in your Colorado Springs home. While the cause can sometimes be simple, it's crucial to understand what's happening and when to call a professional.
Common Causes of Flickering Lights 💡
1. A Loose Light Bulb This is the simplest and most common culprit. A bulb that isn't screwed in tightly can cause an inconsistent connection, leading to a flicker. The fix is as easy as a quick twist to secure it.
2. A Faulty Light Switch An old or damaged switch can develop loose connections, which can interrupt the flow of electricity to the light. If only one light on a switch is flickering, the switch itself may be the problem.
3. Old or Damaged Wiring This is a more serious issue. Over time, the wiring in your home can degrade, leading to poor connections. If you have an older home, this is a distinct possibility. Loose wiring can also be a fire hazard.
4. The Culprit Is a Neighboring Appliance Flickering lights that occur when a large appliance, like a washing machine, dryer, or air conditioner, kicks on can indicate that the appliance is drawing too much power from the circuit. This is a common issue with older or undersized electrical systems.
5. Issues with the Main Electrical Service This is the most serious cause. Problems with the main service panel, the meter, or even the utility company's connection to your home can cause widespread flickering. This usually affects multiple lights or circuits at once.
When to Call an Electrician 👨🔧
Knowing when to move beyond a simple DIY fix is key to keeping your home and family safe. You should call a licensed electrician immediately if:
Multiple lights are flickering throughout the house, not just one. This suggests a problem with your main electrical service.
The flickering is accompanied by other warning signs, like a burning smell, buzzing noises from a switch or outlet, or sparks. These are all signs of a serious electrical issue that requires immediate attention.
A new appliance causes the flickering. If you've recently installed a new, large appliance and your lights now flicker, you may need a dedicated circuit installed to handle the load.
Your house is older. Old wiring can pose a significant fire risk. It's always best to have a professional inspect your system to ensure it is up to modern safety standards.
Don't ignore flickering lights. While it may be a minor issue, it could also be a sign of a significant problem that could endanger your home. Contact American Electrician today for a professional inspection and repair. Your safety is our top priority!
