Occasional flickering from a single light is often caused by a loose bulb or a failing bulb and is not usually dangerous. However, if multiple lights flicker throughout your house, or lights dim when you turn on an appliance, this may indicate a more serious issue such as a loose neutral connection, an overloaded circuit, or a fault in your switchboard or the supply from the network. Persistent flickering across multiple circuits is a potential fire hazard and should be assessed by a licensed electrician promptly.
What to do right now
- 1
Check if it is a single light or multiple lights
If only one light flickers, try tightening the bulb or replacing it. If multiple lights across different rooms or circuits flicker, the problem is likely in the switchboard or supply wiring.
- 2
Note when the flickering occurs
Does it happen when a large appliance (air conditioner, oven, dryer) turns on? This may indicate an overloaded circuit or undersized wiring. Does it happen randomly? This could indicate a loose connection.
- 3
Check your neighbours
Ask your neighbours if they are experiencing flickering too. If they are, the issue may be on the network side — contact your electricity distributor. If it is only your property, the fault is internal.
- 4
Call a licensed electrician for persistent flickering
Do not ignore persistent flickering across multiple lights or circuits. A loose neutral connection is a serious fire hazard. A licensed electrician can perform voltage testing and thermal imaging to locate the fault.
When to call an emergency electrician
- ⚠️Multiple lights flicker throughout the house at the same time
- ⚠️Lights dim significantly when a large appliance turns on
- ⚠️Flickering is accompanied by a buzzing or humming sound from the switchboard
- ⚠️You notice a burning smell or warm light switches
- ⚠️The flickering has started suddenly and has not stopped
- ⚠️Light globes are blowing frequently (could indicate voltage issues)
How much does it cost?
If the cause is a loose bulb, the fix is free (DIY). For a faulty light switch or fitting, a licensed electrician will charge $100–$250 for replacement. Diagnosing and repairing a loose neutral connection at the switchboard costs $200–$600. If the wiring in your home needs upgrading due to undersized cables, costs can range from $500 to $3,000+ depending on the extent of the rewiring. Network-side faults are repaired by your distributor at no cost.