Have you noticed the lights in your South Yorkshire home flickering lately? It’s not just annoying—it could be a sign of underlying electrical issues. At MP Electrical, we believe in keeping your home safe and well-lit, so let’s delve into the common causes of flickering lights and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Flickering Lights
1. Loose Bulbs
The simplest and most common cause of flickering lights is a loose bulb. When a bulb isn’t screwed in tightly, it can cause intermittent connections, leading to flickering.
What to Do:
- Turn off the light.
- Wait for the bulb to cool down if it’s been on.
- Gently screw the bulb in tighter to ensure a solid connection.
2. Faulty Light Switches
Sometimes, the issue lies within the light switch itself. A faulty or worn-out switch can cause the light to flicker when it fails to maintain a steady connection.
What to Do:
- Turn off the light and the circuit breaker controlling the light switch.
- Inspect the switch for any visible signs of wear or damage.
- If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, contact MP Electrical for professional help.
3. Voltage Fluctuations
Your home’s electrical system relies on a consistent voltage to operate correctly. If there are significant fluctuations in voltage, you might notice your lights flickering.
What to Do:
- Check other appliances in your home to see if they are experiencing similar issues.
- If multiple devices are affected, it might be time to call in a professional to inspect your home’s electrical system.
4. Overloaded Circuits
When too many appliances are connected to a single circuit, it can overload the system, causing lights to flicker. This is especially common in older homes where the wiring may not be equipped to handle modern electrical loads.
What to Do:
- Identify which appliances are on the same circuit as the flickering lights.
- Try redistributing the load by plugging some devices into different circuits.
5. Loose Wiring
Loose or outdated wiring can be a severe issue, leading to flickering lights and potential fire hazards. Over time, wires can degrade or become loose, disrupting the electrical flow.
What to Do:
- Turn off the power to the affected area at the consumer unit (fuse box).
- Check for any visible signs of damaged or loose wiring.
*MP Electrical would not recommend you engage in electrical works unless you are qualified to do so, and MP Electrical accepts no responsibility for any work undertaken by unqualified individuals.*
6. Faulty Fixtures
Sometimes the problem lies within the light fixture itself. Faulty components inside the fixture can cause flickering and should be addressed promptly.
What to Do:
- Turn off the light and the circuit breaker controlling the fixture.
- Inspect the fixture for any signs of wear, damage, or loose connections.
- Replace the fixture if necessary, or call a professional for a thorough inspection.
7. Problems with the Electrical Grid
In some cases, the issue might not be within your home at all. Problems with the local electrical grid can cause flickering lights, especially during peak usage times.
What to Do:
Check with your neighbours to see if they are experiencing similar issues.
Visit the National Grid ESO power cut page or call 105 from your mobile for updates on any ongoing issues in your area.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the above steps and your lights are still flickering, it’s time to call in the experts. Flickering lights can indicate more serious electrical problems that require professional attention.
Contact MP Electrical in South Yorkshire
At MP Electrical, we specialise in diagnosing and fixing electrical issues in South Yorkshire homes. Whether your lights are flickering, your sockets are getting hot, or you have any other electrical concerns, our friendly, family-oriented team is here to help.
Get in Touch
Experiencing flickering lights or other electrical problems? Don’t hesitate to contact us for expert assistance. Message us or call our office on 01709 645115 to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members. We’re committed to providing prompt and reliable service to keep your home’s electrical system in top condition.…
