What to do if Your Lights Flicker

Flickering lights is an indication that requires attention, here’s where to start. © By: Dave Rongey

Flickering Lights and Power Problems

[ad#block]Question: We purchased our home as a foreclosure so no history was provided, bought as is, it is 10 years old. Periodically when either the furnace kicks in, or if another appliance is turned on the lights will flicker. This morning a repair tech was here to fix our central air conditioner and he was concerned that the basement lights flickered quite a bit after the central air kicked on after he fixed it (finished basement with recessed lights). Is this something we should get checked out and should we be concerned about it?

This electrical question came from: Lucinda, from Randolph, Minnesota

See more about Home Wiring for Minnesota

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Lucinda
Home Electrical Service
Lucinda, when lights flicker badly enough for your service technician to notice, and this seems to be an on going problem, then I would make sure to have your electrical service checked.
Contacting The Electrical Utility Company
Contact your local electrical utility provider and explain the problems that you are experiencing, and request that they check your electrical service. If the utility side of the home electrical service checks out ok, then it is time to contact a qualified electrical contractor who can make a series of voltage checks to determine the problem. This is important because the problem could get worse and lead to a very costly electrical repair.

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Testers that help with Electrical Repairs

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