Have you noticed your lights dimming or flickering without warning? It may seem like a minor annoyance, but flickering lights can actually signal bigger issues with your home’s electrical system.
Let’s explore what’s behind the blinking and what you should do if it keeps happening.
💡 What Causes Lights to Flicker?
1. Loose Bulbs or Faulty Fixtures
Let’s start simple. Sometimes, a loose bulb just needs a twist. Other times, a worn-out fixture or damaged socket could be to blame.
Quick fix:
- Turn off the light
- Check the bulb
- Try swapping it with a known good one
If that doesn’t solve it, read on.
2. Overloaded Circuits
Do your lights flicker when you use your microwave, dryer, or vacuum? That could mean too many appliances are pulling power from the same circuit.
Example:
- You vacuum, and suddenly the hallway light dims.
- That’s a sign the circuit is straining to keep up.
3. Faulty Wiring
Loose or corroded wiring connections can cause intermittent power flow. This is a more serious problem that requires a professional.
Warning signs:
- Flickering in multiple rooms
- Burning smell near outlets
- Buzzing sounds
4. Issues With the Panel or Breaker
Sometimes, your electrical panel is the issue. If a breaker is old or failing, it might not deliver a consistent current. That can cause lights to flicker, especially under load.
⚠️ When Flickering Is a Sign of Danger
Some flickering is harmless—like a cheap LED bulb on a dimmer switch. But if you notice any of the following, you should call a licensed electrician right away:
- Lights flicker even after changing bulbs
- You see sparks or smell burning
- Lights flicker across multiple rooms at once
- The issue is getting worse over time
🏡 Common Flickering Scenarios in Northern Wisconsin
- Cabins with aging wiring: We often see outdated wiring in older Northwoods homes or cottages that need a safety upgrade.
- Seasonal surges: Heavy furnace, well pump, or generator use in the winter can tax your circuits.
- Rural homes with underground service: Settling or moisture can affect wire integrity.
🧰 What You Can Do (and When to Call Us)
✔️ Try This First:
- Tighten all bulbs and check lamp cords.
- Note when the flickering happens (time of day, appliance usage).
- Test other outlets on the same circuit.
🚫 Don’t:
- Ignore persistent flickering
- Attempt to open your breaker panel yourself
- Rely on duct tape or “quick fixes” to secure wires
💬 What Our Customers Say
“Our living room lights kept flickering whenever the dryer ran. ICT Electric found an issue with the panel and fixed it in one visit. Highly recommend!”
– Tammy B., Rhinelander
✅ We’ll Light the Way
If your home is blinking more than it should be, don’t ignore the signs. At ICT Electric, we troubleshoot and fix lighting and wiring issues with expert care and local pride.
📞 Call us today or book online at incontrolwi.com