Lights Flickering
Flickering lights may be caused by a loose bulb, a dimmer issue, an overloaded circuit, a loose connection, or a wider power problem.
Quick summary
One flickering light may be something simple, like a loose bulb or a dimmer that does not play well with the fixture. If several lights flicker together, or the flicker comes with buzzing or heat, the problem could be farther upstream and worth taking more seriously.
Common causes
A loose bulb or poor bulb contact may make the light flicker on and off.
An incompatible dimmer or bulb combination may cause unstable light output.
A heavily loaded circuit may dip enough to make lights flicker.
A loose connection at the switch, fixture, outlet, or panel may interrupt power briefly.
A utility or service issue may cause broader flickering in more than one room.
Safe checks homeowners can do
Tighten or replace the bulb with one you know is working and compatible with the fixture.
Notice whether the flicker happens on one light only or in several rooms at the same time.
See whether the flicker gets worse when a large appliance starts up.
Check whether the light is on a dimmer and whether the problem changes at different dimmer settings.
When to stop and call an electrician
- Stop if the flicker comes with heat, buzzing at the device, a burning smell, sparks, or repeated breaker trips.
- Stop if several rooms flicker together or the issue seems to involve the panel or service.
- Call a licensed electrician if you are unsure whether the problem is a loose connection or larger power issue.