Flickering lights are one of the most common electrical complaints, and the cause ranges from trivial to urgent.
Probably harmless
A single fixture flickers and a new bulb fixes it. Or an LED bulb flickers on a dimmer that isn't LED-compatible. Swapping to a compatible dimmer during lighting installation solves it.
Needs attention soon
Lights in one room flicker when you touch the switch or when something else turns on. That usually points to a loose connection in a switch, outlet or fixture box. Schedule electrical repair.
Call now
Lights all over the house flicker or dim, especially along with a burning smell, buzzing or warm outlets. That can indicate a loose service neutral or a failing connection at the panel or meter. Call a 24 hour emergency electrician and your utility.
Quick answers
Why do my lights dim when the AC turns on?
A brief dip can be normal, but a noticeable one may mean an undersized service or loose connection.
Can flickering lights cause a fire?
The flicker itself doesn't, but the loose connection behind it can overheat.