Category: Rewiring

Why Are My Lights Flickering?

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how to fix flickering lights

While flickering lights are usually a bad sign in horror movies, they’re usually not as bad in the real world. However, flickering lights can most definitely be a nuisance and prolonged exposure can lead to strain on your eyes and even headaches. To prevent this from happening, the pros at Roman Electric are here to tell you a little more about why your lights are flickering and what you can do to fix them!

1. Loose Bulb

Before you panic and call an electrician, make sure the bulb has been tightened properly in the socket. Bulbs tend to loosen overtime, so this could most likely be the reason for the flickering. If you have incandescent bulbs, you might want to wear gloves before you touch them as they radiate heat. Turn off the lights and a wait a few minutes, then carefully tighten the bulb without using excess force.

2. Old Bulb

Sometimes bulbs flicker a lot before they completely wear out and stop working. If tightening the bulb does not work, you might want to replace the old bulb with a new one. If the flickering persists after this, you might be dealing with a different problem.

3. Type of Switch or Bulb

Sometimes the problem could be with the type of bulb or switch you have. Often, homeowners will replace the bulbs with new ones or different types without replacing the switch. So, you could potentially have a standard CFL or incandescent bulb hooked up to an older dimmer switch, which could be causing problems such as flickering. To fix this problem, you might want to change the switch—if you have experience dealing with electrical problems, you can do this on your own. However, there is no harm in calling an electrician either, as they can safely do the job for you.

4. Fluctuating Voltage

You might have noticed that sometimes, turning on a heavier appliance with high wattage can cause the lights to flicker or dim for a second. If this flickering is persistent long after you have turned on the appliance, you might be dealing with a voltage fluctuation problem. Your home’s electricity supply should be between 115 and 125 volts. By using a device called a voltmeter, you can check your home’s voltage supply—if the number is higher than 125 volts, you have figured out the reason for the flickering. To fix this, consider getting 130-volt bulbs and consult an electrician.

5. Loose Wiring

Check your fixtures, bulbs and outlets for any loose or worn-out wiring. If you notice any wires are loose or old, call an electrician immediately. Loose wiring can not only cause flickering lights but electric fires, which are far more dangerous to you and your family.

Fix Flickering Lights with Roman Electric!

We hope this guide on how you can fix flickering lights was helpful. If you want to learn more about how you can fix the lights, fixtures and wiring in your home, get in touch with the pros at Roman Electric! Call us today at 414-369-3798 or schedule an appointment online!

Why Rewiring an Old Electrical System is Necessary

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Rewiring an outdated electrical system should be a high priority for Wisconsin homeowners. There are many benefits from having an electrical update, but the safety of your household is at the top of this list. Older electrical systems are not compatible with the high-tech world of today, with smart phones, smart TVs, tablets and computers needing energy – along with common appliances and electronics.

If you rely on multiple power strips to feed your electrical needs, you should consider having an electrician look into your system. If you experience frequent power surges or outages – you should also have an expert offer an assessment. Outlets that are hot or contain burn marks are also signs that there is something wrong with your wiring – and these are the most critical of all. According to ESFI, electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 residential fires each year.

Roman Electric is dedicated to keeping your electrical system both safe and efficient. Our experts have compiled a list of reasons to have yours inspected – and rewired if necessary.

Safety and Health Risks

  • Outdated electrical systems offer little in terms of safety, as old wiring can become frayed and even torn. The oldest type of wiring is called knob-and-tube (named for the insulating knobs and tubes that were used to run the wire). This wiring doesn’t have a ground for safety – among other problems associated with the design.
  • Two-prong outlets were common 30 years ago, but now present safety risks due to their lack of a ground wire.
  • GFCI outlets and AFCI breakers are common in modern builds – and essential for safety.
  • Rewiring your electrical system not only ensures higher efficiency, but also allows GFCIs and AFCIs to be installed.
  • Rewiring also gives the homeowner an opportunity to place outlets where they are more convenient for the household.

Adherence to Code

  • Compliance to local electrical code is necessary for both safety and efficiency.
  • The National Electric Code (NEC) requires GFCIs to be placed in every bathroom and kitchen, often a lacking feature in older electrical systems.
  • The NEC also states smoke detectors must be placed in and outside each bedroom, as well as each floor of a home.
  • Aluminum wiring used to be the norm back in the 70s, but most builder regulations require copper wiring as it’s a more suitable material for electrical systems.

Modern Electrical Usage

  • Simply put, older electrical systems are too weak for modern electricity usage.
  • Most major appliances, though more efficient, don’t receive enough power from older systems; leading to surges (which can cause flickering lights) and overloads.
  • Rewiring your electrical system will allow for the proper amount of wattage for all of your gadgets and smart appliances.

Added Energy Efficiency

  • By rewiring your electrical system, you are also strengthening its efficiency.
  • Rewiring your electrical system helps prevent short circuits, arc faults, and overloads, all of which fluctuate power and increase your utility bill.
  • Rewiring also distributes power more evenly by using selective wire made specifically for modern homes.
  • Thermostats with new wiring are more efficient in controlling your HVAC system, meaning you are distributing heating and cooling more efficiently.

If you your older home needs a new electrical system, call the professional technicians at Roman Electric today. Our licensed experts can assist with all rewiring services for older homes. Give us a call at 414-369-3798 to schedule an appointment to get stated!