Why Does My Bedroom Light Flicker When I Turn My Closet Light On and Off?

If you're experiencing flickering lights in your bedroom when you turn your closet light on and off, don't worry—you're not alone. This problem can arise from a variety of issues within your home's electrical system. Understanding the potential causes and solutions can help you address the problem and ensure the safety of your home.

Common Causes of Flickering Lights

Flickering lights in your bedroom could be caused by a few different issues, including shared circuits, poor wiring, incompatible bulbs, voltage fluctuations, faulty switches, or an overloaded circuit. Here's a detailed look at each potential cause:

Shared Circuit

If both lights are on the same electrical circuit, turning one on or off can cause a voltage drop or spike that affects the other light. This is often more common in older homes or in cases where the wiring is not up to code. To check if this is the issue:

Turn off the circuit breaker for one light and see if the other light still works.

Loose Wiring or Connections

Loose or corroded connections in the light fixtures, switches, or junction boxes can also cause flickering. These connections can be disrupted when the closet light is turned on or off, leading to instability in the circuit.

Incompatible Bulbs

If you're using different types of bulbs, such as LED and incandescent, the electronics in the LED bulbs can sometimes cause flickering. This is especially true if the power supply is unstable. Testing different bulb types may help resolve the issue.

Voltage Fluctuations

Voltage fluctuations in your home can cause lights to flicker. This can be due to a number of factors, including electrical appliances switching on and off.

Faulty Switches

A faulty switch for either light could cause poor connections, leading to flickering.

Overloaded Circuit

If you have too many devices or lights on the same circuit, it could be overloaded. This can cause flickering when additional loads are turned on.

Diagnosing and Resolving the Issue

To address the flickering lights, follow these steps:

Checking the Circuit

Determine if both lights are on the same circuit. Turn off the circuit breaker for one light and see if the other light still works. If they are on the same circuit, consider re-wiring or securing any loose connections.

Inspecting Wiring

If you're comfortable doing so, check the wiring in the light fixtures and switches. If you find any loose wires, consider tightening them or re-wiring the connections. If you're not comfortable with this task, it's best to hire a licensed electrician to ensure safety.

Trying Different Bulbs

If you are using LED bulbs, try replacing them with incandescent or other types of bulbs to see if the flickering persists. This can help identify if the problem is with the specific type of bulb.

Consulting an Electrician

If the problem continues after checking the circuit and trying different bulbs, it's best to consult a licensed electrician. They can diagnose and fix the issue safely, ensuring the electrical system is safe and secure.

A New Twist on the Problem

Your specific situation with a new issue involves a closet that has no switch but is instead controlled by a screw that attaches the bulb to the socket. The bedroom light only works when this screw is slightly turned. It's likely that the metal socket is missing two screws, which are holding the prong that touches the bulb. To fix this issue:

1. Check if the socket has all the necessary screws holding the prong that touches the bulb. Replace any missing screws.

2. Ensure that all connections are secure and tightly fitted.

3. Test the lights after making these adjustments to see if the flickering persists.

Conclusion

Addressing flickering lights promptly is essential to prevent potential electrical hazards. By following the steps above, you can identify and fix the issue, ensuring a safe and stable home environment.