Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs powered by an alternating current (AC), modern LED lights are powered using an LED driver. These drivers convert currents from AC to direct current (DC), specifically designed to prevent visible flickering to the human eye at a potential frequency rate of 100 Hertz (100 flickers per second). However, in some cases, LED lights flicker visibly, so what can you do to fix it?
In this guide, we’ll dive into common causes of flickering LED lights and how you can troubleshoot these issues. Whether you’re dealing with a minor flicker or a more serious problem, this blog will help you get to the root of the issue and provide solutions.
Reasons LED Lights Flicker
Loose Wiring or Connections
Loose wiring or a poor connection between the light fixture and the bulb can also cause flickering. This issue can be severe and lead to overheating and even fires in extreme cases, so it is paramount to get this checked first if your LED lights are flickering.
LED Driver Issues
An LED driver regulates the amount of electricity that reaches the LED. If the driver is malfunctioning, for example, if it’s not providing a steady current or if it’s overheating, your lights may flicker. Similarly, a poor-quality driver may not be able to handle the power conversion process effectively, leading to flickering.
Incompatible Dimmer Switches
If your LED lights flicker, especially when dimming, it could be due to an incompatible dimmer switch. LED bulbs require specific types of dimmers that can handle their lower wattage and different power conversion processes. At LED & Power, we ensure that our dimming protocols are compatible with the LED lights they are paired with.
Voltage Fluctuations
One of the primary reasons why LED lights flicker is voltage fluctuations in your home’s electrical system. Voltage fluctuations refer to the changes in the electrical potential between two points in your home’s wiring. LED lights are sensitive to these changes, which can cause them to flicker when large appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners cycle on and off.
How to Fix Flickering LED Lights
- Inspect your wiring: Always be sure to leave this to a licensed electrician to check the wiring connections between your lights, fixtures, and switches, tighten any loose connections, or consider rewiring if the issue persists. Remember, electrical work can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
- Replace or upgrade your LED driver: If the flickering persists past checking the wiring, the driver may be at fault. Explore our LED drivers for quality replacements that ensure smooth and uninterrupted lighting.
- Upgrade to compatible dimmer switches: If your LED lights are flickering when dimmed, upgrading to an LED-compatible dimmer switch can resolve the issue. Browse our range of commercial lighting solutions for high-quality LED bulbs and dimmers.
- Check the power source: To stabilise the voltage, you may need to upgrade your electrical wiring or install a surge protector. We recommend consulting a professional electrician to assess your home’s wiring and voltage levels.
Preventing Future Flickering Issues
Preventing flickering issues involves investing in high-quality components and ensuring proper installation. For commercial and industrial setups, explore our extensive range of commercial lighting and industrial lighting solutions designed for reliable and stable performance.
Flickering LED lights can be caused by various issues, from loose wiring to poor-quality components. By addressing these causes and using the right components, you can enjoy the energy-efficient, long-lasting performance that LED lights are known for, with the added assurance of safety and reliability.
If you’re looking to upgrade your lighting system, browse our complete collection of commercial lighting and LED power supplies to find the best solutions for your needs.
Explore our other guides and resources on LED lighting solutions or contact our expert team for more information.