Many homeowners observe their lights flickering when AC turns on. This widespread issue can stem from several factors, such as electrical complications, wiring defects, or even aging appliances. In this comprehensive article, PFO Heating & Air Conditioning will delve into the prevalent reasons behind this occurrence, offering practical solutions and expert advice on managing it effectively. We will also guide you on when to seek professional assistance. Continue reading to learn more about addressing flickering lights triggered by your air conditioning.
Is It Typical for Lights to Dim as the Air Conditioner Starts?
Contents
- 1 Is It Typical for Lights to Dim as the Air Conditioner Starts?
- 2 Signs of a Larger Air Conditioner Issue
- 3 How to Stop Lights from Flickering When You Turn On Your Air Conditioner
- 4 Avoid Do-It-Yourself Repairs with Electrical Air Conditioner Issues
- 5 In Conclusion
- 6 Reach Out to PFO Heating & Air Conditioning for All Your HVAC Needs
It’s usual for lights to dim momentarily when the air conditioning activates. The air conditioner demands significant electrical power to initiate, leading to a brief spike in power use. This sudden increase can result in a temporary voltage drop, manifesting as flickering lights.
As the air conditioner compressor kicks in, it consumes substantial power to activate and start the cooling process. This immediate electrical demand can lead to a brief dip in voltage within your home’s electrical system. This fluctuation can impact other devices, such as lights, linked to the same circuit. Once the air conditioner stabilizes, the voltage typically levels out, and the flickering of the lights should cease.
If the flickering persists or is intense, it might signal a deeper issue, like an overloaded circuit or defective wiring. Under these circumstances, it’s advisable to consult with a certified electrician who can evaluate the problem and perform any required repairs or enhancements to the electrical system.
For those without a geothermal unit, you might typically expect:
- Occasional brief flickering or dimming of lights
- A decrease in light brightness by 3-5%, or sometimes even more
Conventional outdoor air conditioning systems require more electrical power than geothermal air conditioners, which harness energy from beneath the earth’s surface. Usually, the control unit for a geothermal system is situated adjacent to the furnace. Should the geothermal unit exert an undue strain on your electrical setup, a specialist’s skills are needed to address the issue.
Signs of a Larger Air Conditioner Issue
When your lights flickering when AC turns on, it may point to a more significant problem within your electrical system. Here are some potential causes of continuous or intense flickering:
- Overloaded electrical circuit: An overloaded circuit shared by the air conditioner and lights can lead to flickering when the air conditioner starts. This condition poses a safety risk and could gradually damage the electrical system.
- Faulty AC wiring: Defective wiring may result in voltage fluctuations and other electrical issues. Persistent flickering often suggests that the wiring needs urgent repair or replacement.
- Low voltage: Insufficient voltage in your residence can trigger flickering lights when the air conditioner starts. This issue might stem from complications within the power grid or problems with the transformer that delivers electricity to your home.
- Compromised air conditioner capacitor: Similar to the effects of a failing car battery, a deteriorated or faulty AC capacitor can lead to a notable decrease in electrical power, causing lights to dim significantly, often by about 30 to 50 percent. If you notice this problem, contact a professional to assess the situation and possibly replace the AC capacitor.
Keep your home cool and your AC running smoothly by scheduling a maintenance check with PFO Heating & Air Conditioning today!
How to Stop Lights from Flickering When You Turn On Your Air Conditioner
There are several measures you can implement to address the problem lights flickering when AC turns on:
- Inspect the electrical system: Arrange for a skilled electrician to examine your home’s electrical system. They will look for signs of overloaded circuits, defective wiring, or other issues leading to the voltage drop, causing your lights to flicker.
- Upgrade the electrical system: If your home’s electrical infrastructure is antiquated or inadequate for your current requirements, consider upgrading it to adequately support the load from your air conditioner and other appliances. This might include replacing the electrical panel, enhancing the wiring, or adding extra circuits.
- Install a hard start kit: Using a hard start kit can alleviate the initial strain on your air conditioner’s compressor at startup, helping to minimize the voltage drop and prevent your lights from flickering. A professional can efficiently install this cost-effective and simple solution.
- Install a dedicated circuit: If your air conditioner shares a circuit with your lights, it may be wise to install a dedicated circuit exclusively for your air conditioning system. This ensures the air conditioner receives the power it needs without impacting other appliances connected to the same circuit.
- Use voltage stabilizers: Installing voltage stabilizers can help maintain consistent voltage levels in your home, preventing the fluctuations that lead to flickering lights. While this solution may be more costly, it offers long-term benefits and helps protect your electrical system from potential damage.
Upgrade to an energy-efficient air conditioner with PFO Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us for expert installation services.
Avoid Do-It-Yourself Repairs with Electrical Air Conditioner Issues
Handling electrical issues related to your air conditioner or lighting without professional training is highly discouraged due to safety concerns. Electricity is inherently dangerous and can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities if mishandled. Both air conditioning and lighting systems function at high voltages, presenting considerable risks to those untrained in electrical tasks.
Beyond the threat of physical injury, tackling electrical issues without the appropriate knowledge and expertise can exacerbate problems, leading to additional damage and costly repairs. Electrical systems are intricate, and even straightforward issues may have more profound, less obvious causes that only a trained professional can identify and resolve.
Enlist a licensed and qualified electrician for any electrical repairs. They possess the requisite skills, training, and tools to safely and effectively address problems, helping to maintain the safety and functionality of your home or business.
Don’t let a faulty AC ruin your comfort. Book a professional repair service with PFO Heating & Air Conditioning and enjoy a cool home again.
In Conclusion
Monitoring lights flickering when AC turns on is crucial for ensuring safety, maintaining comfort, and achieving peace of mind. Such flickering often indicates underlying electrical issues that require prompt intervention from qualified technicians or electricians. Disregarding these indicators could lead to more serious electrical complications. Proactively determining and addressing these issues early ensures that your home remains safe and comfortable. You can be confident knowing that your electrical system is operating correctly and efficiently.
Reach Out to PFO Heating & Air Conditioning for All Your HVAC Needs
PFO Heating & Air Conditioning is a premier provider of heating and cooling solutions in the Greater Princeton, NJ, area. Our team consists of highly trained and professionally certified technicians who specialize in HVAC tune-ups, repairs, installations, replacements, and more. We are committed to delivering exceptional quality services to every client.
At PFO Heating & Air Conditioning, we recognize the significance of maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home. That’s why we offer competitively priced services tailored to meet your needs. Our maintenance services aim to improve comfort and minimize energy costs. Whether you need an HVAC repair or are considering a system replacement, our expert technicians are here to guide you to the best solutions while considering your budget. We back our work with a satisfaction guarantee.
To arrange a service visit, give us a call. We provide free, in-home estimates to assist you in making well-informed decisions regarding your HVAC systems. Trust PFO Heating & Air Conditioning to exceed your expectations with outstanding heating and cooling services!
Click here to contact us now or call us at (800) 253-9001 to find out more! Click the link to view our service area.
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