Flickering Lights: Understanding and Solving the Problem

Flickering lights can be incredibly frustrating, especially when they seem to worsen in the evenings. Newer meter socket breaker boxes and recent electrical inspections can only do so much to address this issue. There are a myriad of potential causes, from loose connections to power supply irregularities. In this article, we will explore some of the common reasons for flickering lights and provide guidance on how to identify and solve the problem.

Common Causes and Solutions for Flickering Lights

First and foremost, it might be worth considering if there is another electrician or even your power provider who can help. They could be the source of the issue.

External Feed Issues

Before the meter at the pole, there could be a loose connection in the feed. It's crucial to contact your electric supplier to have them inspect the lines. Ensure that all connections are tight and that there is no excessive load from your neighbors, such as arc welders, which could cause flickering.

Internal Circuit Issues

If you have recently had work done, you may need to ask the original electrician to return and check their work. There are several potential issues to consider:

Incompatible Dimmers or Control Systems: Are you using devices that may be incompatible with each other? Ensure that all dimmers and control systems are compatible with each other and with your light fixtures. LED Bulbs or Fixtures: LED bulbs can flicker if they are in an excessively hot environment. Ensure that the temperature around the fixtures does not exceed their maximum rated temperature. Power Supply Irregularities: Faulty generators, rural electrical feeds, or even a nearby solar system can cause flickering. Check for any irregularities in the power supply.

Another common cause is a fully loaded Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI). If the GFI has tripped, the lights may flicker. Check the status of your GFI device to ensure it is not the cause.

Investigating Large Loads

Many household appliances and electronics can serve as significant loads that may cause a drop in voltage, leading to flickering lights. Common culprits include:

Televisions and Other Electronic Devices: These can draw a considerable amount of current, momentarily affecting the voltage in your home. Air Conditioners and Heating Units: These appliances can cause fluctuations when they start up or shut down. Laser Printers: As mentioned in the case study, modern laser printers can cause voltage drops due to their heating cycles. Check if any high-power devices are cycling on and off.

During power drops, the voltage can fluctuate, causing the lights to flicker. This is often more noticeable in the evenings or during peak usage periods when more devices are being used.

Take Action and Find Solutions

To address flickering lights effectively, follow these steps:

Call your electric utility and make a flicker light complaint. They can inspect your lines and connections to ensure everything is in working order. If you've had recent electrical work, ask the electrician to return and check their work. Check your GFI device for tripping and any nearby high-power devices that may be causing the issue.

By understanding and addressing these potential causes, you can significantly reduce or eliminate the flickering lights in your home.

Conclusion

Flickering lights can be a complex issue, but with the right knowledge and steps, you can address and solve the problem. Remember to involve professionals and systematically check each potential cause. With a little detective work and troubleshooting, you can enjoy stable, flicker-free lighting in your home.