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DIY guideLights and bulbs

A light flickers: bulb, dimmer and LED checks

Tighten or swap the bulb, match LEDs to the dimmer, and know when it's an electrician's job.

  • 5 to 15 min
  • 5 steps
  • Every step animated
A light flickers: bulb, dimmer and LED checks: the animation’s first picture

5 steps

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  1. Turn the light off at its switch, and give the bulb a few minutes to cool.

    A bulb that was on can burn your fingers.

  2. Turn the bulb clockwise until it's snug, not tight, then switch it on. A loose bulb is the most common cause.

  3. Still flickering? Swap in a bulb of the same kind that you know works.

  4. LEDs flicker on a dimmer unless the two match. Use bulbs marked dimmable, and a dimmer made for LEDs.

  5. Several lights flickering, a buzzing or warm switch, or a burning smell means the wiring: leave it off and ask Handyman for an electrician.

What you need

  • A bulb you know works
  • Dimmable LED bulbs, if it's on a dimmer

Call a pro if

  • Several lights flicker at once
  • The switch buzzes, sparks or feels warm
  • You smell burning near the light or the switch

Handyman says: Leave it off. I'll find an electrician.

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