User: nizak
Asked on: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 7:56 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at 7:57 am EDT
Question: In the last few weeks I’ve been noticing that most all the LED lighting in my house has started flickering.It happens between 3 and 4 PM and lasts about 10 minutes.It’s random, the time it occurs is the same but the days are different.I’m not always home so I’m not sure how often it’s happening.I have recorded 3 days that I witnessed it. Two days were back to back.The lighting is divided up between 3 15A circuits. Two are on the same leg, one on the other.I’m not seeing any voltage fluctuations. I’m metering it as it’s occurring.There’s a variety of different LED bulbs and LED retrofits throughout the house.I’m in a subdivision and I’m fairly certain my house and two others share the same xfmr.Gonna pop the meter cover and take a look at the utility connection
Okay, you're approaching this systematically, which is good. Here's a breakdown of potential causes and things to investigate, given the information you've provided
Possible Causes & Troubleshooting Steps:
Utility-Related Issues (Highly Suspect, Given Shared Transformer)
Transformer Overload
The most likely culprit, especially if the flickering happens consistently around the same time each day (3-4 PM). This is often a peak usage time.
Evidence
The time frame of 3-4 PM suggests increased demand on the transformer from other homes. Things like AC units kicking on, people getting home and using appliances, etc., could be straining the transformer.
Action
Inspect Transformer
(As you're planning) Look for signs of physical damage, overheating, or corrosion on the transformer. Do this visually and safely. Do not touch anything!
Talk to Neighbors
Ask if they're experiencing similar issues around the same time. This will strengthen the case that it's transformer-related.
Contact Utility Immediately
Report the problem to your electric utility. This is crucial. They are the only ones who can properly diagnose and fix transformer issues. Clearly explain the time correlation, the consistency, and that you suspect it's affecting multiple homes. Provide the dates and times you observed the flickering. The more specific you are, the faster they'll take action. Request they check the transformer's loading and voltage regulation.
Internal Wiring Issues (Less Likely, But Possible)
Loose Neutral Connection
A loose neutral is a classic cause of flickering and can affect multiple circuits.
Evidence
While less likely since you're observing it on multiple circuits and a voltage fluctuation would likely be observed, a corroded or loose neutral connection at the main panel could cause voltage imbalances across the legs.
Action
Check Main Panel Neutral
Important Safety Note: This is dangerous work. If you are not completely comfortable and qualified, DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS YOURSELF. Hire a licensed electrician. Carefully inspect the neutral connection at the main panel. Look for signs of corrosion, looseness, or burning. Tighten the connection if possible (again, ONLY if you are qualified and have disconnected power).
Check Neutral Connections at Each Affected Circuit
An electrician would also check neutral connections at the affected circuit breaker(s) and at the first receptacle/fixture in each circuit.
Loose Connections in Fixtures
A loose wire nut or connection inside a light fixture can cause flickering. However, it's unlikely to affect multiple circuits simultaneously.
Evidence
Single fixture or circuit affected.
Action
Inspect Fixtures
Turn off the power to the circuit and check the wire connections in any fixtures that flicker.
Overloaded Circuits
While you mentioned 15A circuits, it's good to double-check the load.
Evidence
Flipping occurs only when certain appliances are being used.
Action
Calculate Circuit Load
Add up the wattage of everything on each circuit that is on during the 3-4 PM window and compare it to the circuit's capacity (15A x 120V = 1800 watts).
LED Compatibility/Quality Issues (Less Likely, But Possible)
Dimmer Compatibility
Are any of the LEDs controlled by dimmers? If so, are the dimmers rated for LEDs?
Evidence
Flickering only occurs on dimmed lights or when using certain dimmers.
Action
Test Without Dimmer
If possible, bypass the dimmer switch temporarily to see if the flickering stops.
Use LED-Compatible Dimmers
Replace non-compatible dimmers with those specifically designed for LEDs.
Low-Quality LEDs
Cheap LEDs are more prone to flickering.
Evidence
Some LEDs flicker more than others.
Action
Replace Suspect Bulbs
Replace the most flickering bulbs with high-quality, reputable brand LEDs.
LED Driver Issues
LEDs use a driver to convert AC to DC. Failing or incompatible drivers can cause flickering.
Evidence
LED driver has failed or driver/bulb incompatibility.
Action
Replace Bulb
Replace suspect bulbs.
Appliance-Related Issues (Less Likely)
Large Appliances Cycling On/Off
A large appliance (like an AC unit, refrigerator compressor, or well pump) cycling on and off could cause a momentary voltage dip, but it should be brief and likely noticeable on your meter.
Evidence
Flickering consistently coincides with appliance cycles.
Action
Monitor Appliance Cycles
Pay attention to when large appliances cycle on and off and see if it correlates with the flickering.
Important Considerations
Safety First
When dealing with electrical wiring, always prioritize safety. Turn off the power at the breaker before working on any fixtures or wiring. If you're not comfortable, hire a qualified electrician.
Document Everything
Keep a detailed record of when the flickering occurs, which lights are affected, and any other relevant observations. This will be helpful for the utility or an electrician.
Multiple Issues
It's possible that you have a combination of issues. For example, a slightly overloaded transformer and some low-quality LEDs.
Steps in Order
Contact Utility Immediately
This should be your first step. Report the problem and emphasize the time correlation and potential transformer issue.2.
Gather Evidence for Utility
Document the dates and times the flickering occurred. Ask neighbors if they've experienced the same.3.
Inspect Transformer (Visually and Safely)
As you planned, but maintain a safe distance.4.
If Utility Doesn't Act Quickly
Consider hiring a qualified electrician to investigate the main panel neutral and potentially other wiring issues.5.
Test LED Dimmer Compatibility
If applicable, test dimmers.6.
Replace Suspect LED Bulbs:* If the flickering persists, start replacing low-quality LEDs with better ones.Good luck! It sounds like you're on the right track. The consistent timing points strongly toward a utility issue. Flag for review