Flickering lights are one of the most common things we’re asked about. Often it’s trivial; occasionally it’s serious. Here’s what causes it and when to worry.
Harmless causes
- A loose or failing bulb — try tightening or replacing it first.
- An incompatible LED dimmer — the most common cause of LED flicker. The dimmer needs to match the LED fittings.
- A large appliance starting up — a brief dim when a shower or kettle switches on is usually normal.
Causes that need an electrician
- A loose connection — at the fitting, switch or in the circuit. Loose connections cause heat, which is a fire risk.
- An overloaded circuit — too much on one circuit.
- A failing fitting or switch.
When flickering is serious
If lights flicker throughout the whole house, or you notice buzzing, warmth or a burning smell, switch off and call an electrician — it can indicate a loose main connection or a supply/neutral fault, which is urgent. Our fault finding team can trace it fast.
Fixing LED flicker
If it’s your LEDs, we’ll supply and fit the right compatible dimmer so they run smoothly — see our LED lighting service.
Common questions
Usually not — but whole-house flickering, or flickering with buzzing, warmth or a burning smell, can indicate a loose connection or supply fault and should be checked urgently.
A brief dim when a high-draw appliance starts is often normal. Persistent flickering tied to an appliance can point to an overloaded circuit or loose connection.
LED flicker is usually a dimmer-compatibility issue. We supply and fit an LED-compatible dimmer matched to your fittings so they dim smoothly without flicker or buzz.
Lights flickering across the house?
Don’t ignore it — we’ll trace the cause quickly, 24/7 across East London.
Call 020 7473 7807