Flickering lights are more than just annoying—they're often warning signs of dangerous electrical problems that require immediate professional attention. Here's what Phoenix homeowners need to know.
When Flickering Lights Are Normal
Not all light flickering is cause for alarm. Brief, occasional flickering can be normal when:
- Large appliances start up (AC unit, refrigerator, washing machine)
- Your neighbor's AC kicks on (shared transformer)
- Monsoon storms affect the utility grid
However, if flickering is frequent, persistent, or affects multiple lights, you have an electrical problem.
Dangerous Causes of Flickering Lights
1. Loose Wire Connections
This is the most common and dangerous cause of flickering lights. Loose connections create resistance, generating heat that can start electrical fires.
Warning Signs:
- Warm or discolored light switch plates
- Burning smell near switches or fixtures
- Crackling sounds from switches
- Multiple lights flicker on the same circuit
Our Solution: We inspect all wire connections, tighten terminals properly, and replace damaged wiring to eliminate fire hazards.
2. Overloaded Electrical Circuits
When too many devices draw power from one circuit, voltage drops cause lights to flicker. This is especially common in Phoenix homes during summer when AC units run constantly.
Common Scenarios:
- Lights dim when AC unit starts
- Kitchen lights flicker when using multiple appliances
- Garage lights dim when using power tools
Our Solution: We install dedicated circuits for major appliances, redistribute electrical loads, and upgrade panels when necessary.
3. Voltage Fluctuations
Your home should receive steady 120-volt power. Voltage that's too high or too low causes flickering and can damage electronics and appliances.
Causes Include:
- Utility company issues
- Damaged service entrance cables
- Faulty electrical panel
- Poor grounding
Our Solution: We test voltage levels throughout your home, identify the source of fluctuations, and coordinate with utility companies when needed.
4. Outdated or Failing Electrical Panel
Old electrical panels can't properly distribute power to modern homes. Panels older than 25 years or brands like Federal Pacific and Zinsco are particularly problematic.
Panel Problems Cause:
- Inconsistent power distribution
- Voltage drops under load
- Breaker chattering (rapid on/off cycling)
- Whole-home flickering
Our Solution: Complete electrical panel upgrades to 200-amp service with modern safety features.
5. Aluminum Wiring Issues
Many Phoenix homes built between 1965-1973 have aluminum wiring, which expands and contracts more than copper, loosening connections over time.
Fire Hazard Warning
Homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have fire hazards at connections. If your home was built in the late 1960s-early 1970s, have your wiring inspected immediately.
Our Solution: Aluminum wiring remediation using approved methods or complete copper rewiring when necessary.
Flickering by Type: What It Means
| Flickering Pattern | Likely Cause | Urgency |
|---|---|---|
| One light flickers constantly | Loose bulb or faulty fixture | Moderate |
| Multiple lights on one circuit flicker | Loose connection or overloaded circuit | High |
| All lights dim when appliance starts | Undersized panel or voltage issue | High |
| Random, intermittent flickering | Utility issue or service entrance problem | Moderate |
| Flickering with burning smell | Loose connection creating heat | EMERGENCY |
DIY Checks (Before Calling an Electrician)
- Check the bulb: Ensure it's screwed in tightly
- Try a different bulb: Replace with new bulb of correct wattage
- Check other lights: See if multiple lights flicker
- Note the pattern: When does flickering occur?
Stop here. Do not attempt any further troubleshooting. Electrical work requires professional expertise and is illegal for non-licensed individuals in Arizona.
When to Call Connect Electric Solutions Immediately
Contact us right away if you notice:
- Burning smell from switches or outlets
- Warm or discolored switch/outlet covers
- Buzzing, crackling, or sizzling sounds
- Sparks from electrical components
- Multiple lights flickering simultaneously
- Flickering that worsens over time
Our Flickering Light Diagnosis Process
- Comprehensive electrical inspection
- Voltage testing at panel and fixtures
- Connection tightness verification
- Circuit load analysis
- Clear explanation of findings
- Professional repair with warranty
LED Lights and Flickering
LED bulbs are more sensitive to voltage fluctuations than incandescent bulbs. If only your LED lights flicker, you might have minor voltage issues that wouldn't affect old-style bulbs. This still indicates an electrical problem that should be addressed.
Experiencing Flickering Lights?
Don't ignore warning signs. Our licensed electricians provide fast, professional diagnosis and repairs throughout Phoenix and surrounding areas.
Call (602) 935-9976