Lights Flickering?
Don't ignore flickering lights – they could signal a serious electrical fault. Our CHAS approved electricians diagnose and fix the problem safely.
Solutions Ltd
Why Are My Lights Flickering?
The first thing to establish is whether it's one light or the whole house. A single fitting flickering is usually a bulb issue – particularly with cheap LED lamps on dimmer circuits. Many LED bulbs aren't compatible with older leading-edge dimmers, causing a visible flicker at certain brightness levels. The fix is simple: either swap to a dimmer-compatible LED or replace the dimmer with a trailing-edge model designed for LEDs.
If multiple lights flicker simultaneously – especially when a high-power appliance kicks in (electric shower, immersion heater, or oven) – the issue is usually voltage drop on a shared circuit or at the main supply. We test this by logging voltage at the consumer unit while running appliances. In healthy installations, voltage should remain between 216V and 253V under load. Anything below 216V consistently suggests an issue with the supply-side cabling or the service head connection, which we'd report to Western Power Distribution.
The scenario that concerns us most is flickering accompanied by a warm smell or buzzing from a switch or ceiling rose. That combination typically indicates a loose terminal connection creating an arc – essentially a tiny electrical fire happening inside the fitting every time the light is on. We've attended several Devon properties where ceiling roses had visible scorch marks inside from years of unnoticed arcing. This is a genuine fire risk and shouldn't be left.
Common Causes of Flickering Lights
Loose or Faulty Connections
Worn wiring connections at light fixtures, switches, or junction boxes can cause intermittent power supply, leading to flickering.
Overloaded Circuits
Too many appliances on one circuit can cause voltage fluctuations when high-power devices switch on, making lights dim or flicker.
Faulty Light Bulbs or Fixtures
Incompatible LED bulbs, dying bulbs, or damaged light fixtures can flicker independently of electrical system issues.
Voltage Fluctuations
Inconsistent voltage from the mains supply can affect all lights in your home, often noticeable when neighbours use high-power equipment.
Outdated or Damaged Wiring
Old aluminium wiring, degraded insulation, or rodent-damaged cables can create dangerous resistance points that cause flickering.
Faulty Consumer Unit
A failing main switch or loose busbar connections in your fuse board can cause power fluctuations throughout your property.
When to Call an Electrician
- Flickering occurs in multiple rooms simultaneously
- Lights flicker when you turn on specific appliances
- You notice a burning smell near lights or switches
- Flickering is accompanied by buzzing sounds
- The problem has suddenly started or worsened
- You live in an older property with original wiring
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my lights flickering in my house?
Lights can flicker due to loose connections, overloaded circuits, faulty bulbs, voltage fluctuations, outdated wiring, or problems with your consumer unit. While a single flickering bulb is often minor, multiple flickering lights indicate a potentially serious electrical issue requiring professional inspection.
Is flickering lights dangerous?
Yes, flickering lights can indicate dangerous electrical faults including loose connections that can cause arcing and fires, or overloaded circuits that may overheat. If lights flicker throughout your home or you notice burning smells, contact a qualified electrician immediately.
How much does it cost to fix flickering lights?
Costs vary depending on the cause. Simple fixes like bulb replacement are inexpensive, while rewiring or consumer unit upgrades may cost more. A professional diagnostic inspection typically costs £60-£120 in Devon and identifies the exact issue before any repairs.
Get Expert Help
CHAS approved electricians ready to diagnose and fix your flickering lights safely.
Related Services
Flickering Lights Repair Available Across Devon
Can't see your area? We cover all of Devon, Cornwall & Somerset. Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my lights flickering?
Flickering lights can be caused by loose connections, overloaded circuits, voltage fluctuations, failing bulbs, or a deteriorating neutral connection. Persistent flickering should be investigated as it can indicate fire risk.
Is flickering lights dangerous?
Occasional flickering from a single bulb is usually not dangerous. But widespread flickering, flickering that gets worse, or flickering accompanied by buzzing or burning smells needs urgent investigation.
How much does it cost to fix flickering lights?
Diagnosis starts at £80 plus VAT. A loose connection fix costs £80-£150. If the issue is a failing neutral or consumer unit fault, repair costs range from £200-£500 depending on complexity.
Why do my lights flicker when an appliance turns on?
Voltage drop when large appliances start (washing machines, fridges) can cause brief flickering. If it's severe or persistent, your consumer unit may need a dedicated circuit for the appliance.