Customers routinely ask me about flickering lights because I design interior lighting. Flickering lights can produce problems with home illumination, such as discomfort for the eyes, discomfort for the mind, and a shift in the atmosphere of the home. This post will go over some of the potential reasons of the issue, as well as fixes and preventative measures, to help you rapidly fix the flickering light issue.
I. What is light flicker?
The term “flickering” describes a phenomena in which a light source’s output briefly changes in brightness or colour. Typically, circuit errors, variations in ambient lighting, or variations in the voltage or current of the light source are to blame.
Flickering is a fast shift in the brightness or colour of the light source that can result in headaches, eye fatigue, and difficulties focusing.
There are several potential causes of flickering, including unstable power supplies, flaws in the light emitting components, etc. Flickering is typically brought on by unstable light emission from the light source. The most common causes of flickering are issues with the drivers, such as overloading or overheating the drivers.
II. Potential causes of flickering lights
- Voltage fluctuations:
Voltage fluctuations are one of the most common causes of flickering lights. Unstable power supply can cause voltage fluctuations, which may cause flickering lights. In addition, overloaded electrical loads may also cause voltage fluctuations, leading to flickering lights. - Poor contact:
Poor contact is also one of the causes of flickering lights. When the light is poorly connected to the power supply, it may cause current fluctuations, resulting in flickering lights. In addition, socket or dimmer switch problems may also cause flickering lights. Many users also have questions about adjusting switches, such as flickering when turning on or off the lights. Therefore, I wrote an article specifically for this issue. If you also have these questions, you can click here to see “dimmer switch” - Lighting issues:
The end of the lifespan of the lighting or mismatched lighting fixture can also cause flickering lights. After the lifespan of the lighting ends, the lighting may become unstable, resulting in flickering. Mismatched lighting fixtures may cause lighting that is too bright or too dim, which can also cause flickering. - Electrical circuit problems:
Aging or short circuits in the circuit may also cause flickering lights. Aging wires can cause poor contact, resulting in current fluctuations and flickering lights. Short circuits may also cause flickering lights. - Other reasons:
Newly purchased lights may flicker, which may be due to poor bulb quality or mismatched lighting fixtures. If you encounter this situation, you can consider replacing the bulb or lighting fixture, or contact the relevant brand or dealer for advice.
III. Solutions to flickering lights
- Check for voltage fluctuations:
Use a voltmeter to measure voltage fluctuations. Generally, the standard voltage should be around 220V. If the voltage fluctuation is too large, consider installing a voltage stabilizer or adjusting the distribution of electrical loads. - Repair poor contact:
Replace or tighten the light connection, check whether the socket and dimmer switch are normal. If problems are found, they can be replaced or repaired. Dimmer switches may also cause flickering lights, so special attention is needed. - Replace lighting:
Consider the compatibility of the lighting and lighting fixtures when choosing the suitable form of lighting, such as incandescent lights, LED bulbs, fluorescent lamps, etc. If the lighting is broken, it needs to be replaced right away. - Electrical circuit maintenance:
Electrical circuit maintenance includes routinely inspecting the home’s electrical circuit to make sure that the wires and plugs are in good shape and promptly addressing ageing and short circuit issues. Ask a licenced electrician for repairs if you are unfamiliar with electrical circuit upkeep.
IV. Tips for preventing flickering lights
- Choose high-quality lighting fixtures and lighting:
Choose a quality-assured brand and lighting product suitable for home use, which can reduce the likelihood of flickering lights. - Regularly check the home electrical circuit:
Regularly check the home electrical circuit to ensure electrical safety, discover and handle problems in a timely manner, and avoid the occurrence of problems such as flickering lights. - Reasonably arrange the electrical load:
Avoid overloading on the same circuit, and use electrical appliances at different times to reduce the likelihood of voltage fluctuations and flickering lights.
V. Effects of flickering lights on people
- Effects of flickering lights from different lighting fixtures:
The impact of LED light flickering on people is relatively small, but it may still cause discomfort such as headaches and eye fatigue. The impact of flickering from fluorescent and incandescent lamps on people is also relatively small, but flickering from fluorescent lamps may cause visual discomfort. - Effects of flickering lights in different scenarios:
The effects of flickering lights can vary depending on where they are, including the living room, dining room, study, and bedroom. For instance, the lighting in the study should be somewhat bright, the lighting in the dining room and living room should be relatively soft, and the lighting in the bedroom should be moderately warm. Based on the demands of various settings, suitable lighting fixtures and types should be selected to decrease the impact of flickering lights on people.
VI.What are the dangers of flickering lights?
Multiple detrimental impacts of flickering lights can be felt by both people and the environment.
Effects on people
- Headaches:People who are sensitive to fluctuations in light may have headaches, migraines, and eye strain as a result of flickering lights.
- Flickering lights can cause seizures in those with epilepsy or a history of seizures. Seizures, unconsciousness, and other severe medical conditions may result from this.
- Uncomfort: Uncomfortable flickering lights can be a problem, particularly if they are too bright or too dark. Problems with focus, mood, and general wellbeing may result from this.
- Sleep disturbances: The inability to fall or stay asleep due to flickering lights can cause sleep patterns to be disturbed. This may result in exhaustion, agitation, and other health issues.
Environmental effects
- Energy wastage: Flickering lights may indicate faulty wiring or broken machinery. Increased utility bills and energy waste may result from this.
- Light pollution is the excessive and needless use of artificial light, and flickering lights can be a part of it. Wildlife may suffer as a result, especially nocturnal creatures who depend on nighttime for hunting, mating, and navigation.
- Risks to safety: Flickering lights can pose risks to safety, especially in open areas like streets and highways. Accidents, injuries, and other issues may result from this.
Flickering lights can, in conclusion, have a variety of adverse consequences on both people and the environment. The fundamental causes of flickering lights must be addressed in order to reduce their effects.
Don’t let flickering lights ruin your mood!
Based on our years of experience in the lighting industry, we understand that flickering lights can be caused by various factors, including voltage fluctuations, poor connections, issues with lighting fixtures, and electrical circuit problems. To address the problem of flickering lights, effective measures can be taken such as checking for voltage fluctuations, repairing poor connections, replacing lighting fixtures, and conducting electrical circuit maintenance.
Moreover, preventive measures are crucial, such as selecting high-quality lighting fixtures and lighting, regularly inspecting home electrical circuits, and properly managing electrical loads. Finally, it is also essential to understand the effects of flickering lights from different lighting fixtures and scenarios to make informed choices and adjustments that ensure comfortable and safe home lighting.
Through years of industry experience and feedback from our customers, we have learned that light stability and comfort are critical factors in home lighting. As lighting experts, we frequently address such issues by providing customers with high-quality LED lights and professional lighting solutions. If you have any issues with flickering lights or other lighting needs, please visit the KOSOOM homepage to learn more.
