Why Are My Lights Flickering?
Flickering lights are one of the most common electrical complaints in Australian homes — and the cause ranges from something as simple as a loose globe to something as serious as a failing switchboard connection. Here's how to tell the difference.
Important Safety Warning
Flickering caused by a loose connection in the switchboard or at a junction point can cause arcing, which is a primary cause of house fires. If the flickering is widespread, affects multiple circuits, or is accompanied by a buzzing sound or burning smell, turn off the relevant circuit and call an electrician immediately.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Single light flickers when switched on or off
- Multiple lights on the same circuit flicker simultaneously
- Lights flicker when a large appliance (air con, oven) switches on
- Flickering worsens over time or starts happening more frequently
- Lights in the whole house briefly dim or flicker together
Potential Causes
Why is this happening? Here are the most common reasons we see in WA homes:
- Loose globe or fitting connection (most common, easiest to fix)
- Incompatible dimmer switch with LED globes — most dimmers were designed for halogens
- Overloaded circuit causing a voltage drop when high-draw appliances start up
- Loose wire at the light fitting, switch, or switchboard connection point
- Failing switchboard connection — this is the most serious cause and requires urgent attention
- Voltage fluctuations from the grid, especially on hot days when demand is high
Troubleshooting Steps (DIY Safe)
- 1Turn off the light switch and carefully reseat the globe — a loose globe is the #1 cause of single-light flickering.
- 2If you have a dimmer switch and recently upgraded to LED globes, check that the LEDs are labelled 'dimmable'. Non-dimmable LEDs always flicker on dimmer circuits.
- 3If multiple lights on one circuit flicker when an appliance starts, this may be a normal voltage drop. If it's severe or worsens over time, have the circuit checked.
- 4Do not attempt to inspect wiring at the light fitting or switchboard yourself — this requires a licensed electrician.
DIY vs Professional
In Western Australia, it is illegal to perform your own electrical work. While you can change a lightbulb or reset a switch, anything involving wiring or removing fittings must be done by a licensed electrician.
How we can help
If you haven't been able to resolve the issue with the steps above, it's time to call in the experts. Sparky Local carries the necessary diagnostic tools to identify the root cause quickly and safely.
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