Proper lighting in your home is essential. It not only enhances the aesthetics of your environment, but it also facilitates your daily activities. It can even improve energy efficiency if you are using energy-saving solutions. Regardless of the type of light fixtures you have, lighting problems can occur. It’s important to know the common warning signs of lighting problems so you can get help straight away before they become severe.
Lights Will Not Work
If you flip the switch and find that the light won’t come on, the first thing you must check is that the bulb has not burnt out. If your bulb is still usable but the light will not function, the switch may be bad, or there may be an issue with the wiring for the light socket.
Buzzing Sounds
If your lights buzz when you turn them on, several things may be wrong. Loose components can cause light fixtures to buzz. Buzzing can also be the result of a short in the wiring leading to the light socket, or the fixture may be wearing out and need to be replaced.
If an LED light is buzzing, this may mean that it is receiving too much power. The dimmer switch might be failing, or other components may need to be replaced.
Lights Continue to Go Dim and Get Brighter
When lights fluctuate between bright and dim, this can be the result of changes in the power supply, such as when you turn on an appliance. The circuit is overloading, and you may need to consider upgrading your electrical panel. An electrician will be able to advise you on this.
Lights Keep Flickering
Electrical shorts are the biggest culprit for lights flickering. The flickering occurs because the short continuously disrupts the electrical current. An electrician can check the wires to make sure they are not burnt or frayed. You may need to have your fixture rewired or replaced.
If you have recessed lighting that keeps flickering on and off, your fixtures may be overheating. Recessed light fixtures contain a limit switch that prevents them from overheating. When temperatures are reaching unsafe levels, the limit switch will shut these fixtures down to prevent safety hazards.
LED lights will flicker because connections are loose or the wiring is malfunctioning. The dimmer may be incompatible, or it may need to be replaced. Dusty sockets can also be the cause of flickering lights.
Overloaded circuits can also cause flickering lights. Try moving appliances to other circuits, or consider hiring an electrician to make upgrades to your electrical system.
While you may be tempted to troubleshoot these lighting problems yourself, this is not recommended because you can put yourself in serious danger. You do not possess the training and experience of a licensed electrician who has spent considerable time in school and working as an apprentice. If you notice any of these lighting problem warning signs in your Rochester, MN home, contact us today at Paxton Electric for professional lighting services.
