Stewart Electrical Group electrician working on a residential switchboard

    Flickering Lights

    Why are my lights flickering?

    Lights usually flicker because of a failing globe, an LED that does not suit the dimmer, a loose connection in the fitting or switch, or a problem with the supply. One flickering light is often the globe or fitting. Several lights flickering together, or flicker that comes with buzzing, heat or a burning smell, needs a licensed electrician.

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    Flicker is one of the most common lighting complaints, and the cause is often minor. The pattern of the flicker is the best clue to where the problem sits.

    This guide explains the usual causes, what you can safely check, and which signs mean it is time to call an electrician.

    01 / Detail

    One light or many?

    If only one light flickers, the globe, the fitting or its switch is the likely cause. If several lights flicker at the same time, especially when a large appliance starts, the problem is more likely on the circuit, at the switchboard or in the supply.

    02 / Detail

    LEDs and dimmers

    Many LED globes are not designed for older dimmers. The result can be flicker, buzzing or lights that never fully switch off. Replacing the dimmer with an LED-compatible model usually fixes it.

    03 / Detail

    Loose connections

    A loose connection in a fitting, switch or junction can cause intermittent flicker. Loose connections can also create heat, which is why they should not be left.

    04 / Detail

    What you can safely check

    With the light switched off and cool, you can try a new globe of the correct type. Do not open fittings, switches or the switchboard.

    • Swap the globe for a known-good one
    • Note whether flicker happens when appliances start
    • Check whether neighbours notice the same thing

    05 / Detail

    When to call an electrician

    Call if flicker affects several lights, continues after a globe change, or comes with buzzing, heat, discolouration or a burning smell.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Related questions, answered.

    Is flickering dangerous?

    A failing globe is not. Flicker caused by a loose connection can create heat and should be checked.

    Why do my LEDs flicker when dimmed?

    The dimmer is probably not compatible with the LEDs. An LED-rated dimmer usually solves it.

    Why do lights dim when the air conditioner starts?

    Large motors draw extra current when starting. Frequent or strong dimming is worth having checked.

    Could the problem be with the network supply?

    Yes. If neighbours see the same flicker, contact your electricity distributor.

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    Talk to an Electrician

    Lights still flickering?

    Tell us what you are seeing and we will arrange a time to test the circuit.