đź’ˇ Why You Should Never Ignore Flickering Lights
By Mt. Vista Electric | Vancouver, WA
Flickering lights might seem like a minor annoyance—but they could be your home’s way of warning you about a deeper electrical issue. While it’s easy to brush off a flicker here and there, persistent or widespread flickering can pose serious safety risks.
Here’s why you should never ignore flickering lights and what you can do to fix them safely.
🔎 1. It Might Be a Loose Connection
One of the most common causes of flickering lights is a loose connection—either at the light fixture, the switch, or deeper within your wiring. Loose connections can lead to arcing, where electricity jumps between gaps, which can generate heat and increase fire risk.
What to do:
If tightening the bulb doesn’t help, stop using the fixture and call a licensed electrician to inspect it.
⚡ 2. Overloaded Circuits Can Trigger It
Do your lights flicker when your AC turns on or when the microwave runs? This could mean your circuit is overloaded or your panel can’t handle the electrical demand.
Why it matters:
Over time, repeated strain on your circuits can wear down your system, leading to frequent breaker trips or even electrical failure.
🧰 3. You May Have Outdated or Faulty Wiring
Homes built before the 1990s often lack modern wiring standards. If your flickering lights are accompanied by buzzing sounds, warm switches, or discolored outlets—it may be time to re-evaluate your electrical system.
⚠️ 4. It’s a Warning Sign—Not Just a Quirk
Think of flickering lights like a check engine light. It might not be urgent yet, but it’s telling you something’s not quite right. The longer you ignore it, the more likely it is that a small issue turns into a big problem.
🛠️ When to Call an Electrician
Call a pro if:
Lights flicker in multiple rooms
The issue worsens over time
It's linked to appliance use or panel activity
You smell burning or hear buzzing
âś… Trust Mt. Vista Electric for Peace of Mind
Flickering lights aren’t just annoying—they’re potentially dangerous. At Mt. Vista Electric, we’re committed to keeping homes in Vancouver, WA safe and powered properly. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full panel upgrade, our licensed electricians are here to help.
đź“… Schedule a free estimate today
Serving Vancouver and the surrounding communities.
