Flickering lights, Should You Be Worried
People don’t think much of flickering lights until it’s too late. In this article, we’ll talk about what flickering lights can indicate and whether or not it’s a cause for concern. Let’s get into it.
Causes of Flickering
Fluorescent and LED lights are known to flicker fairly often compared to other types of lights. This is due to the chemical combinations inside of these bulbs and how they work together to create light. For LED lights, the light may flicker during the first minute after it’s been turned on after a long time of not being lit, but it will go away naturally. In the case that the LED lights are connected to a dimmer, the lights may be more prone to flickering, especially when they’re first turned down. Constant flashing may be a sign that the lights are past due, and they need to be replaced soon.
Loose Bulb
Another reason why the lights in your home may be flickering is due to loose bulbs. Light bulbs are powered by electrical currents, and when the bulbs become loose, it interferes with the circuit, disrupting the energy transfer. You can try this with your light bulb by screwing one into a lamp loosely and turn it on. You will find that the light will constantly flicker, especially if you shake the lamp. The first thing you should do if you see the lights flicker is to check whether the bulbs are screwed in all the way through. You’ll be surprised how many times a simple solution like this can solve a month-long issue.
Out-of-Commission Light Switches
Another reason why the lights may not be functioning in the way that they should be could be due to faulty switches. Light switches allow electricity to reach the light, causing it to start up and brighten. If there’s something wrong with the switch, the transmission won’t be as effective, causing the light to flicker. If this is the case, you can simply fix it by replacing the switch.
Voltage Fluctuation
Now, we’re getting to the more serious side of things. Voltage fluctuation can be a symptom of many things, from an electrical leak or faulty wiring to the deterioration of the main transformer. These issues are something you should be concerned about because they can be highly dangerous, not to mention that they can cost a ton of money to fix if something is to go wrong. The electricity that flows into the home usually hover around 120 volts, and although minute fluctuation is to be expected, anything above 10 volts can be a cause for concern. In some cases, installing a stabilizer may be what you need to do to solve this issue. Contact a professional if you suspect that the voltage of your lights is fluctuating.
Loose Wiring
Loose wiring is the most common cause for residential fires, so if you can’t identify why the lights in your home are flickering, you have to consider this as a possibility. When you’re doing an inspection, be sure to shut off the breaker and go around your home looking for faulty wires and fixtures that look insecure. If you can’t find them on your own, it may be in your best interest to call an electrician to have them inspect the wiring for you.
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