Why Are Your Lights Flickering and How to Fix It: Expert Advice 2026

Your lights are flickering because of loose or improperly installed bulbs, incompatibility between LED bulbs, dimmer-switch issues, and electrical circuit problems. Additionally, wiring and connection problems, such as loose connections or outdated wiring, can cause electricity fluctuation. 

You can fix this by tightening or replacing light bulbs, using LED-compatible dimmer switches, reducing circuit load, and replacing faulty fixtures or switches. However, call an electrician if multiple lights are flickering in the house, the problem occurs throughout the home, or is accompanied by burning smells, buzzing sounds, or warm outlets.

In this guide, you will learn what causes the light problems, how to fix them, and when to call a nearby electrician. 

For further inquiries or immediate electrical assistance in Charlotte, NC, please contact Ewing Electric Co. at (704) 804-3320.

Causes of Flickering Lights

A flickering light is often caused by a loose bulb, incompatible LED lighting, wiring or connection problems, a faulty dimmer switch, or electrical circuit overload.

Incorrectly Installed or Loose Bulb

A loose or incorrectly installed bulb can cause flickering due to inconsistent contact between the bulb’s base and the socket. This results in uneven power flow and causes the light to flicker, especially when the lamp is nudged.

To address this:

  1. Turn off the light and let the bulb cool.
  2. Ensure the bulb is securely tightened in its socket.
  3. If the problem persists, replace the bulb with a new one of the same type and wattage

Additionally, ensure that the bulb is not nearing the end of its lifespan, as older bulbs may also flicker before burning out completely.

A technical image showing a loose light bulb in a socket, an LED bulb next to a dimmer switch, and electrical panel wiring, illustrating common causes of light flickering.

LED Bulb Compatibility Issues

LED bulbs, while energy-efficient, can present compatibility challenges, mainly when used with dimmer switches not designed for LEDs. Traditional dimmer switches, often designed for incandescent bulbs, may not control LED bulbs effectively and can malfunction. 

To prevent such issues, always match the LED bulbs to the fixture’s specifications and ensure that any dimmer switches are compatible with LED technology.

Wiring and Connection Problems

Loose electrical connections, especially at circuit breakers, can cause flickering lights and create serious safety risks. Poor connections may lead to arcing, which generates heat and increases the risk of breaker damage or fires.

Circuit breakers often loosen over time due to normal wear, particularly in electrical panels that are 20–30 years old. In addition, outdated or deteriorated wiring can cause unstable power delivery to light fixtures, resulting in intermittent flickering throughout the home.

Because wiring and breaker issues pose fire hazards, these problems should be addressed by a licensed electrician.

If you suspect an issue with your home’s wiring, contact Ewing Electric at (704) 804-3320. Our electricians will check that all connections are secure and the electrical system meets current safety standards. 

Faulty Dimmer Switch

Dimmer switches wear out over time, and failing internal components can interrupt electrical flow, causing lights to flicker, pulse, or cut out intermittently. 

In many cases, older dimmer switches are not compatible with modern lighting systems. This can also result in flickering even if the switch is not fully worn out. Replacing the faulty dimmer switch with a compatible model usually resolves the issue. If the problem continues after replacement, the wiring behind the switch should be inspected by a licensed electrician.

Electrical Circuit Overload

Electrical circuit overloads cause lights to flicker when too many devices draw power from the same source. High-demand appliances such as HVAC systems, microwaves, or washing machines momentarily reduce voltage, causing nearby lights to flicker.

This issue is more common in older homes that were not designed to handle modern electricity loads. Reducing the number of devices on a single system may help temporarily, but frequent flickering caused by overload indicates the need for circuit balancing or upgrades. A licensed electrician can assess your electrical panel and recommend fixes to prevent electricity issues and potential safety risks.

How to Fix Flickering Lights

You can fix a flickering light by:

  • Tightening or replacing a loose bulb
  • Replacing faulty or aging light bulbs
  • Using LED bulbs that are compatible with the fixture
  • Installing LED-compatible dimmer switches
  • Reducing the electrical load on the power line
  • Repairing or replacing loose or damaged light fixtures

When to Call an Electrician to Fix a Flickering Light

Call an electrician to fix a flickering light if:

  • Multiple lights are flickering at the same time
  • Flickering occurs throughout the home
  • The issue continues after replacing bulbs or switches
  • You notice burning smells or buzzing sounds
  • Outlets, switches, or fixtures feel warm to the touch

Circuit breakers trip repeatedly

Call an Electrician to Stop Flickering Lights and Restore Safe Electricity

Flickering lights signal underlying electricity issues that put your home at risk. Addressing the problem early prevents damage to fixtures, wiring, and electrical systems. If flickering continues or the cause isn’t clear, contact Ewing Electric Co. for an electrical inspection in Charlotte, NC. 

Call (704) 804-3320 for an inspection. 

Frequently Asked Questions

You should check your home’s electrical system every 3 to 5 years to ensure it is in good working order and meets current safety standards. Inspections are also needed after significant renovations, when buying a new home, and annually for homes over 25 years old.

Flickering lights can indicate an impending electrical fire. They often indicate issues like loose wiring, overloaded circuits, or faulty components that require immediate attention from a licensed electrician.

When troubleshooting, turn off the fixture’s power, avoid touching electrical components without protection, and check for loose bulbs or connections. You should also listen for popping sounds and inspect switches for looseness or cracks. Call a professional to ensure safety if you notice burning smells, sparks, or unusual noises.

To prevent flickering lights in new construction or renovations, ensure bulb compatibility with dimmer switches, especially for LED bulbs. Distribute the electrical load evenly across circuits to avoid overloading. Use high-quality, modern bulbs and secure all connections properly. Additionally, GFCIs and AFCIs should be installed to monitor and protect against overloads and arcing.

To diagnose light flickering, use a smartphone camera to capture dark and light bands indicating flicker or apps like VISO Flicker Tester. You can use specialized equipment, such as oscilloscopes, light meters, or voltmeters, to measure flicker frequency and voltage fluctuations for greater accuracy.

Most flickering light bulb causes are minor, such as a loose bulb or an incompatible LED. However, have an electrician inspect the lights if the problem involves wiring, circuit overloads, or faulty switches.

If the light flickers when off, the issue may be the circuit, incompatible LED bulbs, or faulty dimmer switches that allow a small current to flow. 

Lights can flicker randomly due to loose bulbs, faulty fixtures, electrical load changes, or intermittent power delivery within the wiring.

Voltage fluctuations can cause lights to flicker when electrical demand changes or when wiring and connections are unstable.