Flickering Lights – More Than an Annoyance

The winter months bring an entirely different kind of challenge for businesses and commercial properties when it comes to electrical safety.  And what may seem like a simple annoyance could be signs of trouble…flickering lights.

Here are a few issues that could be the culprit.  For your safety, and the safety of employees, tenants, and customers, it’s important to be aware of these issues:

Loose Electrical Connections 

As wires age, they can become damaged.  Frayed or damaged wiring can create arcing and lead to additional hazards.  If you smell a scent of rotten eggs, sulfur, or any odd smells like burning plastic around equipment, don’t use the electrical system at all and contact a qualified electrician for emergency service immediately.

Overloaded Circuits

Older buildings often need to be upgraded due to increased power demands on equipment.  To avoid problems, it’s necessary to increase your electrical load.

Defective Ballasts

Electrical ballasts regulate the flow of power to light fixtures.  If they’re old, or incorrectly installed, it could create a faint buzzing sound or flickering.

Aging Bulbs

With today’s LED technology, this isn’t as much of an issue.  However, if there are lights in your property that dim on their own, it could be the effect of an aging bulbs.  Make sure bulbs are screwed in properly and they’re the correct wattage for the light fixture.

Aluminum Wiring

Older buildings built before 1970, may have built to include aluminum wiring that should be replaced.  Not only is aluminum wiring inefficient, its prone to thermal expansion, loosening at splices, switches, and outlets.

Utility Grid

Here in the Midwest, summers are usually a time for this issue – increased electrical demand throughout the area.  These demands at times create “brown-out” conditions and can create dimming and flickering of lights.

In need of an electrical inspection?

If your last inspection was:

• 40 or more years ago, it’s time for an inspection
• 10-40 years ago, inspection is advisable
• Less than 10 years ago, should not be needed unless electrical warning signs are present, and you have upgraded equipment that requires a higher power load

Should you have any questions regarding the above, it’s recommended you schedule a professional safety inspection from a qualified electrician like Benson Electrical Contracting.  Not only will it bring you peace of mind, but a simple call could save you thousands of dollars in the long run.