Light Flickering When Air Conditioner Turns On: Should You Be Worried?

If you notice your light flickering when the air conditioner turns on, you may worry that this indicates a much bigger issue. While lights flickering when your AC powers on can be a symptom of other issues, they may not always stem from a serious problem. You need a reliable service contractor to determine the underlying cause, if any. 

In this article, we help you determine why your lights flicker when your AC unit turns on and when to get service for this issue.

Whether you need HVAC assistance in Bozeman, MT, or the surrounding area, turn to Premier Systems, Bozeman’s air conditioning repair team. Our professionals have the knowledge and experience to find possible issues or determine if there is no issue. Speak to our friendly, trusted technicians at 406-300-4258.

Understanding Why Lights Flicker When Your AC Turns On

A light flickering when the air conditioner turns on actually demonstrates normal behavior. Electricity in your home spreads between multiple lights, HVAC appliances, and other electrical-powered household items. As a result, your lights may flicker or dim momentarily as the unit powers on.

An air conditioning unit’s higher power needs may result in a slight drain from other areas of your home. Typical symptoms of this power drain include lights dimming and flickering. 

Depending on the type of AC system you have, you may not experience such symptoms. Heat pumps and AC units require less electricity and therefore do not take electricity from other parts of your home.

However, certain cases warrant further investigation. If your lights flicker for an extended period or only certain lights become dim, you may have an electrical problem. Premier Systems professionals recognize the symptoms and causes of a serious electrical issue and solve them with industry-standard tactics.

1. Damaged Wiring

A light flickering when the air conditioner turns on may result from damaged wires. Lights with loose or damaged wiring become a potential safety concern. In addition to flickering when your AC unit powers on, damaged wires may flicker when the unit isn’t operating.

In some cases, your AC unit is not the problem. Any large household appliance requiring a significant amount of energy to run properly may cause your lights to flicker when they turn on. Washers, dryers, dishwashers, and more contribute to a potentially high energy bill.

In addition to damaging your household’s lighting system by failing to fully connect, you risk worn lights that need premature replacement. If your lights flicker on and off when other appliances turn on, you can further determine the cause by noting when the lights flicker and what appliances run at the same time. 

Alternatively, contact an expert electrician and HVAC specialist. They inspect for damage and can replace faulty, old, or otherwise inadequate wiring.

2. Circuit Overload

Changes in lighting brightness may occur with bigger power surges. When too many appliances run on the same electrical circuit, they can become overloaded. 

If your AC unit makes a buzzing sound when turning on, this may indicate an overload. When an overload occurs, your circuit breaker will trip. Circuit overloads may result in electrical fires or shock, so you need to seek professional help or resolve the issue yourself.

Instead of using one circuit for many major electrical appliances, dedicate one circuit for each appliance. This will ensure power has even distribution throughout your electrical system and may prevent the lights from flickering when your AC unit turns on.

3. Damaged AC Capacitor

A damaged AC capacitor serves as one of the most common causes of a light flickering when the air conditioner turns on. Significant dimming and flickering with up to 40% illumination loss indicate problems with the capacitor. The capacitor jumpstarts the AC unit to give it the necessary power to operate. 

When the AC capacitor can no longer hold enough electricity to start your unit or the component malfunctions completely, it must pull power from lights and other appliances. When this occurs, your lights may flicker and dim significantly. 

Damaged AC capacitors put additional stress on your air conditioning system if they have inadequate amounts of power. While malfunctioning capacitors may not render your unit powerless, you may suffer premature breakdowns.

Preventing Light Flickering When Your AC Unit Powers On

AC capacitors provide power to your air conditioning system’s mechanical parts. If the capacitor does not have enough power to start your AC unit, it sources power from other areas of your house, including lights. To prevent flickering, ensure the AC capacitor works properly and shows no signs of damage.

If you notice damage to your AC capacitor or another component of your HVAC electrical system, get assistance immediately. Scheduling service with a licensed HVAC technician, electrician, or service professional ensures you get the high-quality repair you need. 

Individuals like those at Premier Systems offer the necessary tools, equipment, skills, and attention to detail to determine whether your AC capacitor or another issue causes the flickering lights. Professionals can replace faulty or old capacitors to help you avoid high energy costs and other concerns.

Our Professional AC Repair Service

Premier Systems’ service professionals can diagnose a light flickering when the air conditioner turns on and implement the perfect solution to help you save money. Our team of HVAC experts approaches your light flickering issues with individualized, industry-standard applications. 

No matter your needs, our friendly professionals make your AC repair fast and easy. We arrive on time and assist with emergencies. We can repair your AC capacitor, replace damaged wiring, and ensure your unit works properly without causing light flickering or dimming.

Contact Our Team Today

If you notice a light flickering when the air conditioner turns on, look no further than Premier Systems in Bozeman, MT, for all your AC repair needs. You’ll save on utilities and extend your AC unit’s life. Speak to our experts and learn about the signs you need AC repair. 

Schedule a repair appointment when you contact our friendly experts. Call Premier Systems in Bozeman, MT, today at 406-300-4258.