Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Flickering Lights Flickering lights are a common issue. Often, we dismiss them as a minor inconvenience, perhaps the result of a loose bulb or an occasional power surge. However, ignoring flickering lights can lead to serious consequences, both in terms of safety and cost.
At Worthy Electrical Services , this month’s blog looks at why flickering lights shouldn’t be ignored, and what you can do about them. For information, call us in Herne Hill on 020 8674 2098 .
Potential Electrical Hazards One of the most concerning reasons for flickering lights is the potential for electrical hazards. Flickering can be caused by loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty connections, all of which are serious fire risks.
Electrical fires are often silent but deadly, with faulty wiring being one of the leading causes of household fires. If your lights are flickering regularly, this could be a sign of an underlying electrical issue that needs immediate attention.
In older homes, wiring systems may have degraded over time, and modern electrical demands may be overwhelming an outdated circuit. If left unchecked, this could lead to short circuits, overheating, and eventually a fire.
Overloaded Circuits If your lights flicker when you use high-energy appliances, your circuit might be overloaded. This happens when a circuit is forced to supply more current than it was designed for. While your circuit breaker is designed to trip when an overload occurs, repeated surges can still cause flickering lights and indicate that your electrical system is struggling to cope with demand.
An overloaded circuit may not immediately seem dangerous, but it stresses your electrical system, leading to faster wear and tear.
Faulty Light Fixtures or Bulbs Sometimes, flickering lights are caused by something as simple as a loose bulb or a faulty light fixture. However, even these seemingly minor issues can become problematic. If a light bulb isn't seated properly in its socket, it can cause electrical arcing, which creates heat and increases the risk of fire. Similarly, old or damaged fixtures can also contribute to arcing and overheating.
Checking your bulbs and replacing outdated fixtures can sometimes resolve flickering. However, if the flickering persists after these quick fixes, you should consult a qualified electrician .
Voltage Fluctuations Your electrical system is designed to provide a steady supply of power, but voltage fluctuations can cause lights to flicker. These fluctuations may result from large appliances drawing significant amounts of power or from issues within your utility provider’s grid. If you notice the flickering only happens at certain times of day or when specific appliances are in use, voltage fluctuations could be the culprit.
While minor fluctuations are normal, significant or frequent dips in voltage can damage sensitive electronics and appliances in your home.
Contact Worthy Electrical Services If your lights are flickering and you have ruled out simple causes, contact Worthy Electrical Services. Call us on 020 8674 2098 or 07963 071685 . Alternatively, send us a message via our contact form.
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