Flickering Lights: Causes, Solutions & When to Worry

Why Are My Lights Flickering? A Complete Guide

Flickering lights are one of the most common electrical concerns homeowners bring to us. While sometimes the fix is as simple as tightening a light bulb, flickering can also signal serious electrical problems that need professional attention. Here's how to tell the difference.

Quick Fixes: Minor Causes of Flickering Lights

1. Loose Light Bulb

The simplest cause—and solution—is a light bulb that's not fully screwed in. Turn off the light, let the bulb cool, and ensure it's properly seated.

2. Incompatible Dimmer Switch

LED and CFL bulbs require compatible dimmer switches. Using an old incandescent dimmer with modern bulbs often causes flickering. Solution: Install a dimmer rated for LED/CFL bulbs.

3. Bulb at End of Life

Bulbs often flicker as they near the end of their lifespan. If one bulb flickers while others on the same circuit work fine, try replacing it.

4. Fluorescent Light Behavior

Older fluorescent fixtures commonly flicker, especially in cold conditions. This is normal for the technology but can be resolved by upgrading to LED.

Moderate Concerns: Issues Needing Attention

1. Loose Plug Connections

If a lamp flickers, the problem might be a loose plug in the outlet. Check if the plug fits snugly. If outlets throughout your home have loose connections, it's time for an electrical inspection.

2. Loose Light Fixture Wiring

Wiring connections inside light fixtures can loosen over time. Turn off power at the breaker and check (or have an electrician check) the wire connections in the fixture.

3. Overloaded Circuit

When lights dim or flicker as large appliances cycle on (air conditioner, refrigerator, washer), the circuit may be overloaded or undersized. This is common in older Vancouver homes with 60-100 amp service panels.

Serious Problems: Warning Signs

1. Flickering Throughout the House

If multiple lights flicker simultaneously, especially without an obvious trigger, this could indicate:

• Loose service conductor connections
• Problems with the utility connection
• Main breaker issues
• Neutral wire problems

Action needed: Call a licensed electrician promptly.

2. Flickering Plus Other Symptoms

Be especially concerned if flickering occurs with:

• Burning smell
• Buzzing or crackling sounds
• Warm outlets or switches
• Sparking
• Frequently tripping breakers

Action needed: This is an emergency. Shut off power and call an electrician immediately.

3. Lights Flicker When It's Windy

If your lights flicker during windy conditions, there may be damage to:

• The weatherhead where power enters your home
• The service entrance cable
• Utility connections

Action needed: Contact your utility company and a licensed electrician.

Vancouver-Specific Considerations

Older Homes

Many Vancouver homes, especially those in Mount Pleasant, Kitsilano, and East Van, were built before 1970 and may have:

• Original wiring near end of life
• Undersized electrical service
• Connection points that have loosened over decades

High-Rise Living

Burnaby and Richmond condo owners sometimes experience flickering due to:

• Building-wide electrical issues
• Shared circuit problems
• Aging building infrastructure

Weather-Related Issues

The Lower Mainland's wet climate can affect outdoor electrical connections, causing intermittent problems during rainy periods.

When to Call an Electrician

Call ERG Electric Ltd. if you experience:

• Whole-house flickering
• Flickering accompanied by other warning signs
• Flickering that started suddenly
• Flickering that has progressively worsened
• Flickering in recently renovated areas

Our Diagnostic Process

When you call us about flickering lights, our licensed electricians will:

1. Interview you about when flickering occurs and any patterns
2. Inspect the panel for loose connections and proper function
3. Test circuits for voltage stability and proper grounding
4. Check fixtures for wiring issues
5. Examine the service entrance for utility-side problems
6. Provide solutions ranging from simple repairs to upgrades

The Cost of Ignoring Flickering Lights

While some causes of flickering are benign, others indicate:

• Fire hazards from loose connections
• Appliance damage from voltage fluctuations
• Safety risks from failing electrical components

Addressing electrical problems early is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs or—worst case—fire damage.

Concerned about flickering lights? Call ERG Electric Ltd. at 778-237-2470 for expert diagnosis and solutions.