Why Do My Lights Flicker? 7 Causes & When to Call a Melbourne Electrician
Flickering lights can be caused by loose wiring, voltage fluctuations, overloaded circuits or faulty fittings, and they often point to underlying electrical issues that need attention. While an odd flicker may not seem serious, consistent changes in lighting can be a sign that flickering lights repair is needed before the problem becomes hazardous. Many homeowners search for common causes of flickering, yet the safest approach is to understand what might be happening and when a licensed Melbourne electrician should step in.
Below are the seven most frequent reasons your lights may behave unpredictably, along with clear indications of when to call a professional.
1. Loose Bulbs or Incorrect Fittings
A surprisingly common reason for flickering is a loose bulb. If the bulb is not fully secured in its socket, the connection weakens and causes intermittent flickering. This can happen in older light fittings or when low-quality bulbs are used.
What to check:
• Ensure the globe is fully tightened.
• Replace the bulb and test again.
• Confirm the bulb type matches the fixture rating.
If the issue returns, the fixture itself may be failing, and you may need flickering lights repair from a qualified technician.
2. Faulty Light Switches
Wear and tear affect switches over time. A switch with poor internal contact may cause lights to dim or flash when touched or bumped. Sometimes the switch plate may feel warm, which signals a more urgent problem.
Signs of trouble:
• Crackling sounds when switching on.
• Light flickers only when the switch is half raised.
• Flickering stops when you apply slight pressure on the switch.
If this sounds familiar, the switch may need replacing. Faulty switches are one of the lesser-known causes of flickering, yet ignoring them can lead to overheating risks.
3. Overloaded Circuits
Modern homes rely heavily on appliances: heaters, induction cooktops, air conditioners, dryers, and more. When multiple high-demand devices run at once, the circuit can struggle, causing lights on that same line to flicker.
When to take note:
• Flickering happens when a heavy appliance starts up.
• Lights dim whenever the oven or heater turns on.
• Circuit breakers occasionally trip.
Overloading is more than a minor inconvenience. It indicates the circuit may not be designed for current household needs. Upgrading the switchboard or rebalancing circuits may be required.
4. Voltage Fluctuations
Consistent variations in voltage can create noticeable changes in lighting brightness. Too much voltage can shorten the lifespan of bulbs and even damage appliances, while low voltage can cause humming, flickering or slow appliance performance.
Common signs:
• Lights suddenly appear brighter than normal.
• LED bulbs flicker without any clear pattern.
• Appliances malfunction unpredictably.
Voltage issues should never be left unattended. A licensed Melbourne electrician can test the supply and confirm whether the fault lies inside or outside the property.
5. Faulty Wiring
Ageing wiring is one of the most serious causes of flickering and needs urgent action. Homes with outdated or damaged wiring can experience flickering lights, power drops, burning smells or warm switch plates.
Possible risks:
• Electrical fire hazards.
• Sudden power loss in parts of the home.
• Buzzing noises from walls or fittings.
If you live in an older Melbourne property or notice any of these signs, stop using the affected circuit and contact an electrician immediately. Faulty wiring is never a DIY job.
6. Loose or Damaged Connections in the Switchboard
Inside your switchboard, each wire, breaker and terminal must maintain a strong connection. Over time, movement, heat and general wear can loosen internal points. Even a slightly loose neutral wire can result in flickering throughout the entire property.
Warning signs include:
• Multiple rooms experience flickering simultaneously.
• Flickering increases when it is windy or raining.
• You hear faint buzzing near the switchboard.
A professional inspection is essential. A licensed electrician can safely isolate the problem and repair or replace the affected components.
7. Faulty or Ageing Appliances
An appliance on the brink of failure may draw more power than usual, causing occasional flickering in nearby lights. Motors in fridges, pumps or washing machines often cause this effect.
If this applies:
• Flicker happens only when a specific appliance turns on.
• Appliance performance has recently declined.
• You notice humming or vibrating when the appliance starts up.
In some cases, the appliance is the root cause. In others, the circuit may need upgrading to handle its load.
When Should You Call a Melbourne Electrician?
While minor flickering from a loose globe is usually harmless, repeated or unexplained flickering should never be ignored. You should contact a licensed electrician if:
• Flickering affects multiple rooms
• There are burning smells or hot switches
• Circuit breakers keep tripping
• Lights change brightness without reason
• You live in an older home with outdated wiring
Professional diagnosis ensures safe and lasting flickering lights repair without guesswork.
If you would like a friendly, local expert to inspect your home and identify the real cause of flickering lights, the team at Melbourne Wiring Services is ready to help.
The Way Forward
Book your professional flickering lights inspection with Melbourne Wiring Services today. Fast response. Licensed electricians. Guaranteed workmanship.
FAQs
-
Yes, they can be. Some flickers are harmless, but persistent or irregular flickering can indicate wiring faults or overloaded circuits. Addressing the issue early prevents serious hazards.
-
LEDs react quickly to changes in voltage. Any instability in wiring, dimmer switches or power supply can make them flicker. This is one of the more common modern lights that flicker.
-
Absolutely. A worn or poorly connected light switch can interrupt the flow of electricity, causing flickers or dimming.
-
You can check bulbs and switches, but a licensed electrician must handle anything involving wiring, circuits or the switchboard.
-
Call immediately if you notice burning smells, buzzing from walls, hot switches, or flickering that affects several rooms.