Why Do My Lights Flicker When the AC Turns On?

It´s a typical summer annoyance: The AC kicks on, and suddenly, the lights dim or flicker. This common electrical issue can be more than irritating; it might signal a potential problem, and while it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it could also indicate underlying electrical issues.

Is it Normal for Lights to Flicker when the AC Turns On?

The short answer is: Sometimes.

When your AC unit starts up, it draws significant power. This sudden surge can temporarily overload your electrical system and generate the lights to dim or flicker briefly.

This condition is prevalent in older homes with outdated electrical systems.

However, if the flickering is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other electrical problems, it´s time to investigate further.

Let’s understand why this happens before we learn the causes and solutions.

It can be four situations you must consider:

Power surge: Your AC unit is a power-hungry beast. When it starts, a significant rise in electricity will be demanded. This sudden spike can temporarily overload your electrical system, causing lights to dim or flicker.

Outdated Electrical System: The modern demands of air conditioning can overwhelm these systems, resulting in flickering lights.

Faulty Wiring: Loose connections, damaged wires, or overloaded circuits can contribute to flickering lights, especially when a high-power appliance like the AC turns on.

4 Common Causes of Flickering Lights

1. Overloaded Electrical System

Old Wiring: Older homes often have smaller electrical panels and wiring that weren´t designed to handle the demands of modern appliances.
Too Many Appliances: Running multiple high-power appliances can overload your system.
Undersized Electrical Panel: An undersized panel can´t handle the demand, leading to flickering lights.

2. AC Unit Issues

Faulty Capacitor: The capacitor helps the AC compressor start. A failing capacitor can cause excessive power surges.
Compressor Problems: A struggling compressor can draw more power than usual, leading to flickering lights.

3. Loose Connections

Imperfect connections in your electrical system can cause resistance and heat buildup, leading to flickering lights.

4. Dimming Lights

While not technically flickering, dimming lights can also be caused by electrical issues.

When to Call an Electrician: 3 Reasons to Do It!

If you´re experiencing any of the following, it´s time to contact a qualified electrician:

Frequent and Severe Flickering

If the lights flicker often or the dimming is significant, it could indicate a severe electrical problem.

Flickering Accompanied by Other Issues

If you notice flickering lights, tripped breakers, burning smells, or sparks, it´s a clear sign of an electrical emergency.

Dimming Lights that Don´t Return to Normal Brightness

This reason could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.

5 Tips to Prevent Flickering Lights

Here are some tips to help prevent flickering lights:

Avoid running multiple high-power appliances simultaneously
Consider upgrading your electrical panel
Schedule regular AC maintenance
Replace old wiring if necessary
Install surge protectors

Conclusion

Electrical issues can be dangerous. If you´re unsure about the cause of your flickering lights, it´s always best to consult a professional electrician.

By understanding the causes of light flickering and taking appropriate steps, you can enjoy a flicker-free home and potentially extend the life of our electrical system.

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