Why Are My Lights Flickering?

It’s incredibly annoying to settle in for a relaxing evening, maybe reading a book or trying to help your child with homework, and the lights start flickering in and out. The unexpected — and unwanted — light show can crank up your headache and make it impossible to focus. While this is certainly a major inconvenience, it’s also a sign of underlying electrical issues that need prompt attention. In order to protect your home and your loved ones, familiarize yourself with the most common reasons lights begin to flicker.

Loose Light Bulb or Fixture

Did you or someone in your house recently replace a light bulb in the fixture that is now flickering? One of the simplest reasons lights begin to flicker is because of a loose light bulb. The solution here is straightforward: Turn off the light and check that the bulb is screwed in tightly.

If the flickering persists, try replacing the bulb with a new one. Sometimes, an old or incompatible bulb can cause flickering, especially if it’s mismatched with the fixture’s wattage requirements. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, the problem may lie deeper within the fixture or wiring. For example, the old or frequently used fixture may have a worn socket that causes the bulbs to be loose no matter what. In this case, you will need to do more than just tighten or replace the light bulb.

Defective Light Fixtures

Over time, light fixtures can degrade, particularly in damp environments or if they’re exposed to dust and debris. A defective fixture may struggle to maintain a steady current, resulting in flickering lights. If you have an older fixture or suspect that the flickering is limited to a single light source, consider a light fixture replacement as a potential solution.

Faulty Light Switch

Have you noticed that your lights only flicker when you flip a particular switch? The issue may be with the switch itself. Over time, light switches can wear out or develop loose connections, particularly if they’re used frequently. In this case, replacing the switch could solve the flickering.

Outdated Dimmer Switch

If you’re using LED bulbs with an older dimmer that isn’t LED-compatible, you may notice flickering because the switch is not designed to control the low voltage of LEDs. Upgrading to a dimmer compatible with LED lights can be a simple fix for flickering caused by incompatible dimming technology.

Electrical Load Issues

If your lights flicker whenever you turn on a high-powered appliance, such as an air conditioner, washing machine, or microwave, the problem may be due to an electrical load issue. Large appliances draw a substantial amount of power when they start up, which can create a temporary drop in voltage for other devices and cause lights to flicker.

While occasional dimming is usually harmless, frequent or severe flickering caused by power surges might indicate an overloaded circuit. You could consider redistributing appliances across different circuits to reduce the load on a single line. It’s best to contact a professional electrician to evaluate your home’s electrical system and provide expert electrical panel upgrades to ensure your home’s electrical load is well-balanced and safe.

Poor Connections in the Electrical Panel

Another common but often overlooked reason for flickering lights is a loose connection in the electrical panel. The breaker box is essentially the heart of your home’s electrical system, and loose connections here can create inconsistent power distribution, leading to flickering lights or, in severe cases, power loss.

An experienced electrician can check your electrical panel for any loose or worn connections. If necessary, Go Electric provides emergency electrical services to address these issues promptly, ensuring your home’s electrical system remains safe and efficient.

Loose or Worn Wiring

Loose or worn wiring is one of the most serious reasons lights flicker and can even pose a fire hazard if left unchecked. Over time, wires may become loose due to natural wear, damage, or improper installation. If you suspect loose wiring, it’s crucial to call a licensed electrician immediately. Tinkering with electrical wiring can be dangerous without proper knowledge, so it’s best to have a professional inspect your wiring. If needed, Go Electric can provide rewiring services.

Outdated Electrical System

Older homes often have outdated electrical systems that may not meet today’s demands. For example, homes built before the 1960s may still have knob-and-tube or aluminum wiring, which can be more susceptible to issues — such as flickering lights or even electrical fires — as they age.

Upgrading your electrical system or rewiring parts of your home can help alleviate these issues. Although it may require an initial investment, an upgraded system will improve safety and efficiency, helping prevent flickering lights and other common electrical problems. Go Electric can assess your home’s wiring and recommend solutions tailored to your needs.

Solve the Mystery Behind Your Flickering Lights With Go Electric

Are you ready to get to the bottom of why your lights are flickering? Reach out to the experts at Go Electric, LLC. Our team provides comprehensive electrical services in Central Minnesota, including Minneapolis, and can help with replacing light fixtures, rewiring, and upgrading electrical panels to stop the headache of flickering lights. Contact us today to get your home’s electrical system in top condition.

Do I Need an Electrician to Add an Outlet?

Do you have extension cords snaking across the floor because there aren’t enough outlets within reach? If you're tired of the inconvenience and safety risks associated with this temporary solution, you might be considering adding a new outlet. 

While it’s tempting to grab some tools and look up a “DIY electrical outlet installation” video on YouTube, you should think twice. Adding or replacing outlets involves working directly with your home’s electrical system, which can pose serious risks if not handled properly. So, if you’re ready to install an electrical outlet, call a licensed electrician at Go Electric. We’ll ensure the job is done safely, efficiently, and up to code.

Why You May Need to Add or Replace an Outlet

Your home’s electrical system makes life more convenient and enjoyable. Of course, if you don’t have enough outlets in the right places or if your current outlets are malfunctioning, life can become just a touch more difficult.

At Go Electric, we often have homeowners in Central Minnesota reaching out to us for assistance installing outlets for the following reasons:

• Insufficient Outlets in High-Traffic Areas: If you find yourself constantly unplugging one device to charge another, your home may not have enough outlets. Adding new outlets in frequently used rooms, like the living room or kitchen, can eliminate this hassle.

• Upgrading for Enhanced Safety: Older homes often have outdated two-prong outlets that don’t accommodate modern three-prong plugs. Upgrading these outlets not only provides compatibility but also increases safety by grounding the electrical current.

• Reducing Hazards: Extension cords and power strips can be convenient short-term solutions but are not meant for permanent use. After all, overloading them increases the risk of electrical fires. By adding outlets where you need them, you can reduce reliance on these temporary fixes.

• Incorporating USB or Smart Outlets: Smart outlets and USB-equipped outlets are growing in popularity. These modern options offer convenient charging capabilities and can integrate with your smart home systems.

• Damaged or Malfunctioning Outlets: If an existing outlet is sparking, hot to the touch, or no longer functioning, it’s time to replace it. Faulty outlets can pose significant safety risks and should be addressed immediately by an emergency electrician.

Why You Should Hire an Electrician to Install the Outlet

While the idea of saving money by attempting to install an electrical outlet yourself might be appealing, there are several reasons why this job is best left to a licensed electrician:

Safety Comes First

Working with electricity is inherently dangerous, especially if you lack proper training. Incorrectly wiring an outlet can lead to electrical shocks, short circuits, or even fires. A licensed electrician has the expertise to complete the job safely.

Compliance With Electrical Codes

Electrical work must adhere to strict local and national codes for safety and reliability. A professional electrician is familiar with these requirements and can ensure your installation is up to standard, which is particularly important if you ever decide to sell your home.

Proper Tools and Techniques

Installing or replacing an outlet requires specialized tools and a thorough understanding of your home’s electrical system. Professionals not only have the necessary tools but also the experience to diagnose and address any underlying issues that could complicate the installation.

Saves Time and Reduces Stress

Replacing an outlet yourself might seem straightforward (especially with all the online DIY tutorials), but it can quickly become a time-consuming and frustrating process if you encounter unexpected complications. Hiring an electrician ensures the job is done right the first time, saving you both time and stress.

Electrical Panel Upgrades Handled Seamlessly

When you add a new outlet, especially one that requires its own dedicated circuit, your existing circuit breaker panel might need to be upgraded to handle the additional load. After all, an older panel with limited capacity could cause overloads, leading to tripped breakers or electrical hazards. In the event that you need an electrical panel replacement, it’s best to have a licensed electrician ready to step in and complete this complicated task.

Even if a new circuit isn’t necessary, the additional outlet will require proper wiring, which involves splicing into existing wires to connect the plug. This task requires precision and a clear understanding of your home’s wiring system — something best left to a professional.

The Right Outlets Are Installed

Not all outlets are the same, and choosing the correct one depends on the specific needs of the space. As you install electrical outlets, you will need to answer an array of questions, such as: 

• Do you need a standard (20 amp - 125 volt) outlet or a heavy-duty (20 amp - 250 volt) outlet?

• Should you install a GFCI outlet for areas like the kitchen or bathroom?

• And would it be a good idea to install a USB-equipped outlet for charging devices?

Without expertise, it’s easy to choose the wrong type, which can lead to functionality issues or even safety risks. An electrician will assess your needs and recommend the right outlet for the job.

Leave Electrical Outlet Installations to the Professionals at Go Electric, LLC

While there are plenty of tutorials online about how to add an electrical outlet yourself, taking on the task without proper training can lead to costly mistakes — or worse, serious safety hazards. Licensed electricians not only ensure the work is done correctly but also provide peace of mind knowing that your home’s electrical system will operate effectively for years to come.

At Go Electric, LLC, we specialize in safe, efficient electrical installations that meet all local and national codes. Whether you need to replace or add an electrical outlet to accommodate your growing needs, our experienced electricians are here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your outlet installation and let us handle the hard work while you enjoy the convenience of a safer, more functional home.

Why Does My Circuit Breaker Keep Tripping?

Constantly resetting your circuit breakers can quickly become cumbersome. You’re no longer able to quickly vacuum up a few crumbs without having to flip the breaker, and simple tasks like blow-drying your hair or brewing a pot of coffee require strategic planning with the other members of your household. If you’re fed up with the extra work, get to the bottom of why your circuit breaker keeps tripping. With the help of a professional electrician from Go Electric, you can find a lasting solution for your home’s electrical needs.

Common Reasons Your Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

Circuit breakers protect your home from electrical fires and other hazards by monitoring the electrical current flowing through your home. When a breaker trips, it interrupts the flow of electricity because it's detected a potentially dangerous situation. For this reason, you don’t want to dismiss this problem as a minor inconvenience. Instead, pay attention to what your breaker panel may be trying to tell you.

Overloaded Circuits

One of the most common reasons for a tripped circuit breaker is an overloaded circuit. When too many appliances are connected to a single circuit, the electrical demand exceeds the circuit's capacity, causing the breaker to trip as a safety measure.

For example, if you’re running the toaster, coffee maker, and microwave on the same circuit, the electrical circuit may become overloaded, and the breaker will trip to prevent overheating, which could lead to an electrical fire. To prevent an overloaded circuit, try plugging appliances into different outlets or limiting how many you use at one time. For a long-term solution, consider an electrical panel replacement, which will ensure your home has the necessary capacity to handle multiple appliances at once. 

Short Circuits

A short circuit happens when a hot wire touches a neutral wire, creating a high current flow that the breaker can’t handle. When this happens, the breaker trips immediately to stop the flow of electricity. Short circuits often occur when there’s faulty wiring, a bad electrical switch, or a malfunctioning appliance.

Short circuits are potentially dangerous because they can cause electrical fires. Make sure you keep an eye out for potential signs of a short circuit, which include blackened wires and a burnt smell around the outlets. If you suspect a short circuit, it’s essential to contact a qualified electrician to inspect the wiring. They can identify and repair the issue so that your electrical panel and circuits are safe and up to code.

Ground Faults

A ground fault occurs when a hot wire comes into contact with a grounded portion of a system, such as a metal electrical box or bare ground wire. Ground faults can lead to a breaker trip as a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) detects any irregularities in the current and stops the flow of electricity.

Ground faults are often due to damaged insulation, worn-out electrical cords, or moisture near an outlet, such as in bathrooms or kitchens. These faults increase the risk of electrical shock, especially in areas with water. A qualified electrician can help you install GFCI outlets to protect your home from electrical shocks and ensure that your home complies with the National Electrical Code.

Loose or Corroded Wiring

Loose or corroded wires can create inconsistent electrical currents, causing breakers to trip randomly. A licensed electrician can inspect your breaker box, junction boxes, and electrical cords for signs of loose connections or corrosion. Addressing loose or corroded wiring is essential to maintaining a safe system and preventing circuit breaker trips in the future.

Faulty Appliances

Sometimes, it’s not the electrical system but rather a faulty appliance causing the breaker to trip. A malfunctioning appliance can draw more electrical voltage than usual, triggering the circuit breaker to trip.

If you notice that your breaker trips only when you use a particular appliance, it might be time to replace or repair it. Appliances with faulty electrical components or corroded wires can be dangerous, so it’s essential to disconnect and replace them promptly.

A Bad Circuit Breaker

Although rare, circuit breakers can wear out or become faulty. If a circuit breaker itself is damaged, it may not function correctly, leading to frequent trips even when the electrical circuit is fine. Signs of a faulty circuit breaker include a breaker that won’t stay reset or one that feels unusually hot to the touch. If you suspect your breaker is faulty, a qualified electrician can inspect your electrical panel and replace any bad breakers, helping restore reliable function to your home’s electrical system.

Outdated Electrical Panel

Older homes may have outdated electrical panels that are not equipped to handle the energy demands of modern appliances and devices. If your home still uses fuses or has a breaker box that’s decades old, it might not be up to today’s safety standards and could be tripping frequently under normal use conditions.

Upgrading your electrical panel can give you access to more electrical circuits and modern breakers that can better handle today’s power loads. An experienced electrician from Go Electric can assess your current panel and recommend the best course of action for your home’s electrical needs, if that includes an electrical panel replacement, fuse box upgrade, or home rewiring.

Get to the Bottom of Circuit Breaker Trips Today

While it can be tempting to reset the breaker each time it trips, repetitive breaker trips indicate underlying electrical system issues that need attention immediately. Turn to Go Electric, LLC, for expert solutions. Our team of qualified electricians can diagnose the problem, repair faulty wiring, install new dedicated circuits, and replace bad circuit breakers. Contact us today, and let us help you prevent circuit overloads, avoid electrical fires, and ensure your electrical system is up to code.