The Importance of Electrical Safety

If you've come across a flickering light bulb in your home, this may be disconcerting, but is it a reason to worry? What could be causing this anomaly, and what should you do next in order to fix it?

Simple Fix

Before you worry too much, make sure that this is not something simple. For one reason or another, the bulb may have turned slightly in its socket (perhaps due to vibration) and may not be seated correctly. Turn the switch off and wait for the bulb to cool down if necessary before retightening.

Cabling Problems

However, if this simple fix does not work, you may have a loose or damaged connection between the outlet and a light plug. If the light in question is mounted to a wall or ceiling, then you won't be able to check that without removing the faceplate or mounting point. If you have no experience here, you need to proceed with care and always turn off the power before checking.

Bigger Problem

If you do see anything untoward, or if some of the protective cablings appear to be frayed, worn or outdated, this could signify a much bigger problem. However, it does mean that you should take urgent action, as the current could arc in a substandard installation like this, possibly sparking an electrical fire. The problem is particularly acute if you do not have any safety switches fitted to that circuit. After all, they are designed to cut off the power immediately if there is a risk of a short-circuit.

Overloaded Circuits

Have you installed a major appliance recently? If so, you may have overloaded one of the circuits in your home. Ideally, you should always check the power requirements of an appliance before introducing it to such a circuit, especially in the kitchen or utility room where there might be several other, power-hungry appliances. If you notice that the lights flicker when you turn on that appliance, there's a reasonable chance that you have overloaded the circuit. Don't use that appliance again until you talk with an electrician.

Taking Action

If your flickering bulb continues to annoy you and you cannot see anything obvious, don't delay. Call in an electrician on an urgent basis. They will carry out repairs as necessary to make sure that your property is not at risk. They may also recommend that you install new safety switches if necessary.

For more information about electrical repairs, contact a local professional.