Flashing garden lights is not only annoying – it could be dangerous as well. When your garden lights are flickering, it always means that something is amiss.
Your garden lights may be flashing due to a loose light bulb, plug, or wiring. In addition, your light switch might be faulty, or you might have an overloaded circuit. Sometimes, condensation and voltage fluctuations can also make your garden lights flicker.
So, let’s talk about the reasons your garden lights might be flashing and fix them together. I’ll walk you through each possible problem and solution so that you keep your lights steady and bright.
1. You May Have a Loose Light Bulb
Light bulbs come loose for various reasons.
Different factors, such as gravity, improper installation, wind, or rain, may affect how tightly your bulbs stay connected to their sockets.
Turn the bulbs in their light sockets to ensure that they’re firmly attached to fix the issue.
Word of warning: be sure to turn all light switches off first before touching any of your light bulbs.
2. Your Plug Might Be Loose
Plugs can come loose over time, so before you worry that your home’s electrical system is malfunctioning, check the plug.
Be sure to push your light’s plug firmly into its electrical socket.
You may also want to give the metal prongs a look-over to ensure they aren’t bent.
You could quickly fix deformed metal prongs with the help of pliers.
Try unplugging the lights and then plugging them back in if things look okay.
3. You May Have a Faulty Light Switch
Flick the light switches on and off a couple of times.
If your garden lights are flashing as you flick the controls, then you may have found the culprit.
Light switch issues could indicate a broken switch or a loose wire.
It may also be possible that the entire unit is broken.
Depending on your skill level, you could try fixing the issues yourself.
Seek the help of an electrician if the situation is much too complicated for you to handle.
4. Your Wiring May Be Loose or Damaged
Loose wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires.
However, it can be challenging to diagnose a problem that is buried in your walls.
Wires are typically hidden from view since they are usually considered eyesores.
Still, it’s best to make it a habit to check your wiring regularly.
Keep an eye out for frays or cuts in your wires.
In addition, it is essential to make sure your garden lights’ wires aren’t exposed to rain.
Keep them away from objects that may collect water, such as indentations in the wall, floor, grass, or soil.
You’ll need to replace old and outdated wires.
5. You May Have an Overloaded Circuit
Take note of the instances that your garden lights begin to flash.
Do they start blinking when you turn on major electrical appliances in your house?
Air conditioners, heaters, and washing machines are usually the ones that trigger this reaction.
If your garden lights flash when these devices power up, it could mean that you have an overloaded circuit.
Unless you have a solid background in electrical work, it’s best to call for professional help if you find yourself in this situation.
6. Voltage Fluctuations
Are your garden lights still flickering even when you have already turned off major appliances in your home? That may be a signal that you have problems with voltage fluctuations.
If your flickering lights burn out faster than usual, voltage issues may be behind this problem, too.
Keep in mind that changes in voltage readings are typical.
Still, your home’s voltage level should be within the range of 115-125 volts at any given time.
To remedy a voltage issue, you could invest in a voltmeter so you can keep track of your home’s normal voltage swings.
Still, if you are worried or hear a buzzing sound frequently when you plug things in, it’s best to call a professional immediately.
7. There May Be Condensation Inside Your Light
Water buildup is a common occurrence in outdoor lights.
Condensation happens when moisture gets within the light fittings or the bulb itself.
The water inside your light fixtures is dangerous since water is an electrical conductor.
Water may cause shock or electrocution when it comes in contact with an electric current.
It may even start a fire in the worst-case scenario.
One effective solution is to seal your garden lights.
Lithium grease is an excellent option since it repels moisture and prevents the flow of electrical currents.
Ensure that your lights, particularly those attached to a wall, are adequately caulked or sealed.
If they aren’t closed off, water can easily seep in.
You could also opt to invest in outdoor-rated lights that come pre-sealed.
These are highly recommended and proven to be safer for outdoor settings.
That way, you wouldn’t have to worry too much about this issue anymore.
Conclusion
Seeing your garden lights flashing shouldn’t be a cause for alarm. The key is to act fast in eliminating potential culprits.
Pinpoint the exact reason why these lights are flickering.
You may be able to handle simple issues like broken switches, loose bulbs, or damaged plugs.
However, it’s always best to call an expert for help when in doubt.
After all, your family’s safety is something that you should never compromise.
Cheers, tools owners!
