You’ve probably seen it in thrillers, sci-fi, or horror movies—that classic moment when a character walks into a dark room or hallway, and the lights start flickering wildly, just before something bad happens. Or maybe the scene is set in a seemingly normal kitchen, an empty hotel lobby, or a hospital, and suddenly, the lights begin to flicker as eerie music creeps in. It’s the universal signal that something’s off.

In real life, flickering lights happen for many reasons, none of which involve monsters lurking nearby. However, persistent or severe flickering can still be a sign of deeper electrical issues. While an occasional flicker might not mean much, understanding the causes and addressing them can help keep your electrical system functional and your home safe.

Here are some common causes of flickering lights and how to handle them:

Loose Bulbs or Fixtures: This is the most common cause and the easiest fix. Check to see if loose light bulbs or fixtures are causing the flickering. Make sure the bulbs are screwed in securely, and if they still flicker, it might be time to replace them.

Old Light Switches: Nothing lasts forever, including light switches. Worn-out switches can also cause flickering lights. If you notice signs of wear or damage, it’s probably time to replace them.

LED/Dimmer Compatibility: Some LED bulbs aren’t compatible with traditional dimmers. Dimmers work by rapidly cutting the flow of electricity, while LED bulbs need less power. If you’re using non-dimmable LED bulbs with a dimmer switch, they’re going to flicker.

Circuit Overload: Running high-power appliances like microwaves, hair dryers, or washing machines can overload a circuit, causing voltage fluctuations and flickering lights.

Old Wiring: This one is serious. Outdated or damaged wiring is a frequent culprit of flickering lights. As wiring deteriorates, it can create loose connections or shorts in the circuit. Have a licensed electrician inspect and replace old wiring to keep your home safe.

Bad Connections: Loose or corroded electrical connections in your panel or outlets can also cause flickering. This isn’t a DIY fix—call a licensed electrician to address the issue.

Electrical Panel Problems: If your circuit breaker box is old or faulty, it may be the root of the problem. In this case, have an electrician assess the panel and replace it if necessary.

Voltage Fluctuations from the Utility Company: Sometimes, the issue originates outside your home. Fluctuations in voltage from your electric utility can cause lights to flicker. If your electrician confirms this, contact your utility company and request a voltage test.

Even if some solutions to flickering lights are simple, persistent flickering can indicate more serious problems with your electrical system. That’s why it’s essential to schedule regular checkups with a professional.

Our team of expert electricians serves residential and commercial properties throughout the Bay Area, ensuring that your electrical systems are both safe and functional. Whether you need a routine inspection or emergency repair, we’re here 365 days a year. Fast, professional, and dedicated to customer service, our electricians have built a reputation in the competitive Bay Area market for handling everything from large projects to emergency calls with the same level of care and urgency.