My Lights Are Flickering, What’s the Problem?

If you have ever experienced flickering lights in your home, you know how annoying it can be. This problem is annoying and could indicate a bigger electrical issue. To identify the issue, it’s important to understand if the flickering is occurring in all of the lights or just some of them. 

Always prioritize safety and consult an expert before trying to fix a flicker problem, regardless of its cause. In this blog post, we will discuss the common causes of flickering lights and what you can do to fix them.

5 Reasons Why Your Lights Are Flickering

Light Flickering due to Power fluctuations

One of the most common causes of flickering lights is power fluctuations. The problem occurs when there is a sudden rise or drop in the electrical voltage. If your lights flicker when you turn on a big appliance or during storms, you might have a power issue.

This can happen if you use too many appliances at once or if there is a problem with your wiring. To solve the problem, it is advised to contact an electrician. They will check your wiring and ensure it meets the required standards.


lightbulbs Flickering

Another reason why your lights may be flickering can be due to bad light bulbs. When light bulbs start to wear out, they flicker before they go out completely. If you notice your lights flickering, it is advised to replace the bulbs as soon as possible. If you have recently changed your bulbs and the flickering persists, be sure to check that they are the right wattage for your fixtures.

Loose wiring

If you have old wiring in your home, it could be the cause of your flickering lights. Loose wiring connections can cause the electrical system to short-circuit. This can result in a few seconds of flickering. This problem can be dangerous and could lead to an electrical fire if left unresolved. Be sure to contact an electrician if you suspect any of the wiring in your home is loose.

Faulty circuit breakers

Circuit breakers are in place to prevent electrical fires and damage to your appliances. If a circuit breaker becomes faulty, it can trip more frequently, causing your lights to flicker.  Don’t ignore this warning sign, as it could be a warning that something more serious is happening with your electrical system. If you think your circuit breakers are causing problems, call an electrician to check and fix them.

Overloaded circuits

An overloaded circuit can be another explanation for flickering lights. Having too many devices on one circuit can cause the power to go out and interrupt the electricity. Be aware of the number of appliances you have plugged into one circuit and check that all wires are connected and in good condition. 

The solution may be to move some of your appliances to a different circuit or install more outlets. If overloaded circuits are still causing your lights to flicker, contact an electrician for help.


Flickering lights can be distressing, but understanding the cause of the issue can help you find a solution. We talked about why lights flicker: power changes, bad bulbs, loose wires, broken breakers, and overloaded circuits. If your lights are flickering, contact a licensed electrician to help find and fix the issue. Take this issue seriously, as it may indicate more serious electrical problems that require immediate attention. Don’t take a chance with any electrical issues, call Colony Electrical today at 416-272-8610!

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