LED bulbs are super popular these days. They may cost a bit more upfront, but they’re way more energy-efficient and last way longer than regular bulbs. That means you can save money while being kinder to the environment too. But LED lights can be a bit tricky sometimes. One common problem is flickering – if your LED lights keep blinking on and off, you’re definitely not alone. LED bulbs are more sensitive to changes in electricity, so flickering is a common issue. Constant flickering is not just annoying, but it can also strain your eyes and give you headaches if it goes on for too long. But no need to worry, there are ways to figure out what’s causing the flickering and get it fixed.
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Dealing with a Flashing Light? Here’s How to Fix It
Steps for troubleshooting LED flickers
Miljko/Getty Images There are a few easy things you can try first if your LED lights are flickering. Check the bulb and the fixture for any obvious signs of damage, and make sure the bulb is screwed in tightly. You can also try swapping the bulb with another one that’s not flickering. If the flickering keeps happening, the problem is probably with the electrical circuit.
If your LED bulbs are connected to a dimmer switch, try adjusting the dimmer setting. Turning it up to full brightness can sometimes stop the flickering. If that works, it might mean you have an incompatible dimmer – check the label to see if it’s made for LED bulbs. You’ll also want to make sure the total wattage on the dimmer is within the recommended range, or else the unstable voltage can cause flickering.
Finally, older LED bulbs or ones that are overheating can also start to flicker. LED bulbs last a long time, but they can wear out eventually. And if they’re in a really hot spot, the heat can make them flicker too.
When to call a professional
Puhimec/Getty Images Flickering LED bulbs can be super annoying, but sometimes they can also point to a more serious electrical issue. If the simple troubleshooting tips don’t fix the problem, it might be time to call in an electrician.
You should definitely get an electrician involved if you have flickering lights on multiple different circuits. That’s a sign there could be problems with the main electrical panel or the wiring. And if you notice buzzing, crackling, burning smells, or frequent circuit breaker trips, those are all major red flags that you have a dangerous electrical situation on your hands. It might be tempting to try to fix it yourself, but for issues like these it’s best to leave it to the pros.
