Why Do My Lights Flicker When the Air Conditioner (A/C) Turns On?

Flickering Lights? It Might Be More Than Just a Nuisance

If you’ve noticed your lights dim or flicker when your air conditioner, microwave, or other large appliance turns on, it’s not just a coincidence — it could be a warning sign of a potential electrical overload in your home.

At Crisafulli Bros., we see this often in homes with aging electrical systems or HVAC units that are working harder than they should. Here’s what might be happening, and what you can do to protect your home (and your peace of mind).

What Causes the Flicker?

When a high-powered appliance like an air conditioning unit kicks on, it draws a large amount of electricity in a short burst. If your electrical system is older, improperly balanced, or overloaded, you might notice:

  • Lights flickering or dimming momentarily
  • Circuit breakers tripping
  • Warm outlets or electrical panels
  • A hum or buzz when certain appliances run

These signs shouldn’t be ignored. Over time, electrical strain can lead to damaged equipment — or worse, a fire risk.

Simple Fix or Serious Issue?

Sometimes the fix is as easy as a dedicated circuit or an HVAC tune-up. But in other cases, it may be time to:

  • Upgrade your electrical panel
  • Redistribute the load across circuits
  • Replace old wiring
  • Add a surge protection or install a soft start on your Air Conditioner

How an Air Conditioner Rejuvenation Kit Helps

An overworked air conditioner puts pressure not just on your cooling system, but also your electrical panel. A rejuvenation kit includes components that help your cooling systm start and run more efficiently, reducing the electrical draw — and in turn, reducing the flicker.

It’s a smart way to not only protect your wiring, but also extend the life of your HVAC system.

Crisafulli Bros. Can Help!

Our licensed electricians and HVAC technicians work hand-in-hand to give you a whole-home solution. We’ll:

  • Diagnose the cause of your flickering lights
  • Inspect your electrical panel and system load
  • Recommend the right repairs or upgrades
  • Offer AC tune-ups and rejuvenation kits when appropriate

Don’t Ignore the Signs

A flicker might seem like no big deal—but it could be your home’s way of telling you it’s time for a checkup.

Contact Crisafulli Bros. Home Services today to schedule your electrical safety inspection or HVAC service. We’ll help you keep the lights on and the AC running — safely and efficiently.

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