Flickering Lights? Here’s What It Means & How to Fix It

Flickering lights in your home can be frustrating and even a little unsettling. While it might seem like a minor issue, persistent flickering could indicate underlying electrical problems that require immediate attention. If you’re experiencing flickering lights in your Western Sydney home, this guide will help you understand the causes, potential risks, and when to call a professional electrician.

Why Are My Lights Flickering?

There are several possible reasons why your lights may be flickering, ranging from simple fixes to serious electrical hazards.

1. Loose Light Bulbs

The simplest and most common cause of flickering lights is a loose bulb. If a lightbulb isn’t screwed in properly, it may not make a secure connection with the fixture, causing intermittent flickering.

How to fix it: Turn off the light and carefully tighten the bulb. If the problem persists, try replacing the bulb with a new one. Also, ensure that the bulb is compatible with the fixture and is of the correct wattage.

2. Faulty Light Switches or Dimmers

If you notice flickering when using a dimmer switch, it could be due to an incompatible bulb. Dimmer switches work best with LED bulbs designed for dimming.

How to fix it: Try using a dimmable LED bulb. If the issue continues, consider replacing the dimmer switch or consulting an electrician. Additionally, older dimmer switches may not be compatible with modern LED lighting, which can cause persistent flickering.

3. Voltage Fluctuations

If multiple lights in your home flicker when large appliances (such as air conditioners or refrigerators) turn on, it could be a sign of voltage fluctuations. This occurs when high-powered devices draw significant amounts of electricity, affecting your home's overall voltage stability.

How to fix it: Contact an electrician to check your home’s electrical system. They can test for voltage drops and install a dedicated circuit if necessary. If voltage fluctuations are frequent, your home may require a power regulator or stabiliser to maintain a steady voltage.

4. Loose or Faulty Wiring

Loose electrical connections, outdated wiring, or frayed wires can lead to flickering lights and pose a serious fire hazard.

Signs of faulty wiring:

• Lights flickering when plugging in an appliance

• Burning smells near power points or light fixtures

• Buzzing or crackling sounds from switches or outlets

• Discoloured or charred outlets

How to fix it: If flickering persists in multiple rooms or worsens over time, call a licensed electrician immediately. Faulty wiring should never be ignored as it can increase the risk of electrical fires. A professional electrician can conduct a full inspection to identify and repair any loose connections or outdated wiring.

5. Issues with Your Electrical Panel

An overloaded or faulty electrical panel may cause flickering lights throughout your home. If your circuit breakers frequently trip, it could be a sign that your panel is struggling to handle the electrical load.

How to fix it: An electrician can inspect your switchboard and determine if an upgrade is needed to support your home’s power needs. Many older homes in Western Sydney still have outdated fuse boxes that are not designed to handle the electricity demands of modern appliances and lighting.

6. Problems with the Power Supply

If you notice flickering lights throughout your neighbourhood or in multiple homes on your street, the issue might not be within your home. Power supply problems can result from:

• Damage to local power lines

• Electrical grid issues

• Weather-related disruptions (such as storms or strong winds)

How to fix it: Contact your electricity provider to report the issue and check if there are any ongoing maintenance or repair works in your area.

Is Flickering Lights Dangerous?

While a single flickering light might not seem like a big deal, consistent flickering could indicate a larger problem. Here’s why you shouldn’t ignore flickering lights:

1. Risk of Electrical Fires

Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits can overheat, increasing the risk of electrical fires. If you notice flickering along with a burning smell or warm outlets, turn off power to the affected circuit and call an electrician immediately.

2. Damage to Appliances

Frequent voltage fluctuations can damage sensitive electronics, leading to premature wear and expensive repairs. If your appliances frequently reset or behave erratically when lights flicker, this could be a sign of electrical instability.

3. Potential Power Outages

Flickering lights could indicate an issue with your switchboard or electrical panel, which, if left unchecked, can lead to sudden power failures. Regular maintenance can help prevent unexpected blackouts in your home.

When to Call an Electrician

While some flickering light issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting, others require professional attention. You should call an electrician if:

• The flickering affects multiple lights across different rooms.

• The problem worsens over time or occurs frequently.

• You notice burning smells, buzzing sounds, or discoloured power points.

• Your circuit breakers trip often.

• Your home has old or outdated wiring.

• You live in an older home that hasn't had an electrical inspection in years.

Ignoring these signs can lead to serious electrical hazards, including fire risks. A professional electrician can diagnose the problem and ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and up to standard.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Flickering Lights

To reduce the chances of flickering lights in the future, consider taking these preventative steps:

• Schedule regular electrical inspections – A licensed electrician can identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

• Upgrade your electrical panel – If your home has an outdated switchboard, upgrading to a modern system can prevent flickering lights and other electrical issues.

• Use surge protectors – Protect sensitive electronics from voltage fluctuations by using high-quality surge protectors.

• Ensure proper lightbulb compatibility – Always use bulbs that are suitable for your fixtures and dimmer switches.

• Avoid overloading circuits – Plugging too many high-wattage appliances into a single circuit can cause fluctuations in voltage and lead to flickering lights.

Need an Electrician in Western Sydney?

If you’re dealing with flickering lights and need expert assistance, Addison’s Power Solutions is here to help. Our licensed electricians can diagnose and fix electrical issues in your home, ensuring safety and reliability.

We provide services across Western Sydney, including Parramatta, Blacktown, Penrith, Liverpool, and surrounding areas.

👉 Call us today or request a free quote!

Don’t let flickering lights become a bigger problem, get professional help and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s electrical system is in safe hands!