Understanding Why Your Lights Flicker
If you’ve noticed your lights flickering, dimming, or pulsing, it’s more than just a nuisance — it could be a warning sign of an electrical problem. Whether the issue happens in one room or throughout your home, flickering lights often mean there’s a disruption in your electrical flow.
At 1 Best Electric, our licensed electricians in Cartersville, GA, help homeowners diagnose and repair the most common causes of flickering lights before they become safety hazards.
1. Loose or Faulty Light Bulbs
Loose bulbs are the most common cause of flickering. When the bulb doesn’t fit securely, it can lose contact and cause an inconsistent current.
Fix: Turn off the light and tighten the bulb. If the flicker continues, try replacing the bulb or socket.
2. Incompatible Dimmer Switches
Not all dimmer switches work well with LED bulbs. When they aren’t compatible, you may notice pulsing or rapid flickering.
Fix: Replace the dimmer with one designed for LED lighting, or switch to standard bulbs that match your current fixture.
3. Overloaded Circuits
If your lights flicker when appliances like your refrigerator or air conditioner start up, the circuit may be overloaded.
Fix: Contact a licensed electrician to inspect your electrical panel. You may need a dedicated circuit or an upgrade to your service panel.
4. Loose Electrical Wiring
Loose or damaged wiring can create arcing — small sparks that lead to overheating and potential fire hazards.
Fix: This is not a DIY repair. Call a professional electrician in Cartersville immediately to check and repair the wiring safely.
5. Faulty Light Fixtures
Older or low-quality fixtures can cause flickering, even with new bulbs. Internal wiring may be worn or disconnected.
Fix: Test a different fixture on the same circuit. If the flicker disappears, it’s time to replace or repair the faulty light.
6. Voltage Fluctuations from the Power Company
Sometimes flickering comes from outside your home. Nearby electrical issues or voltage drops from your power provider can cause noticeable dimming or pulsing.
Fix: Notify your electric utility company and have an electrician check your home’s grounding and main connections.
7. Outdated Electrical Panel
An aging or undersized electrical panel may struggle to support modern energy demands, causing inconsistent power.
Fix: Schedule an electrical panel inspection or upgrade with 1 Best Electric to improve safety and reliability.
When to Call a Professional Electrician
If your lights flicker frequently or you notice burning smells, buzzing sounds, or heat from outlets, it’s time to call a professional. These are signs of potentially dangerous wiring issues that require expert attention.
The certified team at 1 Best Electric provides fast and reliable electrical repair services across Cartersville and Northwest Georgia. We’ll identify the cause of your flickering lights, repair the issue safely, and ensure your home meets current electrical safety standards.
Schedule Electrical Service Today
Flickering lights aren’t something to ignore — they can be a sign of a serious electrical problem.
Call 470-309-6996 or schedule your service online with 1 Best Electric, the trusted local electricians Cartersville homeowners rely on for safe, long-lasting repairs.
