Flickering Light – Causes and Solutions

A flickering light may seem like a small problem, but in offices, shops, warehouses, and industrial environments, it can quickly lead to more serious consequences. In addition to being visually distracting and giving an unprofessional impression, flicker can negatively affect the work environment, cause fatigue among staff, and in the worst case pose a safety risk. Here, we go through the most common causes of flickering lights and what you can do to fix the problem.

Why Do Lights Flicker?

Flickering can occur for several different reasons, often due to a combination of age, technology, and environmental conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:

Aging Fluorescent Tubes or Fixtures

Traditional fluorescent tubes have a limited lifespan, and as they age, flickering often appears. This happens because the electrodes inside the tube wear out, preventing the light source from maintaining a stable arc. In older fixtures, starters and capacitors may also deteriorate over time, causing unstable operation. The result is flickering lights that are not only annoying but may also increase energy consumption.

Defective Drivers or Transformers

Modern LED lamps rely on drivers that convert electricity and deliver the correct voltage to the light source. If the driver is low quality, overloaded, or beginning to fail, it may deliver inconsistent voltage. This leads to visible flicker or subtle light fluctuations that can be straining on the eyes—even if they are not always immediately noticeable. In industrial environments where lights are frequently switched on and off, the wear on drivers can be particularly significant.

Voltage Fluctuations in the Electrical System

In large buildings, industrial facilities, or locations with many machines, it is common for the electrical network to experience variations in load. When the voltage is unstable, lights may start to flicker or blink. This is especially noticeable when lighting is connected to the same circuit as power-intensive machines. Flicker caused by voltage problems tends to be recurring and usually requires an electrician to identify and fix the underlying issue.

Environmental Conditions: Cold, Moisture, or Dust

In warehouses, production halls, and outdoor environments, lighting is exposed to harsh conditions. Cold temperatures can affect the starting and operation of certain light sources, especially older fluorescent tubes, which may flicker when temperatures drop. Moisture and dust can enter fixtures without adequate IP protection, damaging components and reducing light quality. For companies in industrial or logistics environments, it is therefore important to choose fixtures and light sources designed to withstand these conditions.

How Companies Can Fix the Problem

There are several actions businesses can take to address flickering lights:

Replace old fluorescent tubes and fixtures before they cause significant disruptions.

Invest in modern LED solutions that provide flicker-free light and stable performance.

Perform regular maintenance to identify defective components early.

Contact an electrician if flicker is caused by voltage fluctuations in the building’s electrical system.

Choose LED for Flicker-Free Lighting

Choosing LED solutions offers many benefits for both work environments and operational efficiency. LED technology provides flicker-free lighting that creates a comfortable and safe work environment, reducing the risk of eye strain, headaches, and difficulty concentrating among staff. At the same time, LED is considerably more energy-efficient than traditional light sources, lowering operating costs and reducing environmental impact.

For industrial and warehouse operations, LED is a durable choice that combines high light quality with robust performance. In addition, LED opens up opportunities for smart lighting control systems that allow light to be adjusted based on time of day, work tasks, or presence—further contributing to efficiency and energy savings. In short, LED solutions are not just an investment in lighting but also in productivity, safety, and sustainability.

When Should You Call an Expert?

If flickering light issues keep returning or if the entire lighting system is outdated, it may be wise to hire professionals. A professional lighting analysis can help identify the right solution based on the size of the space, ceiling height, work tasks, and energy goals.

Want to know more about how to replace old light sources and avoid problems with flickering lights? Contact us at Aura Light—we’ll help you find the right solution for your specific environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I know if a light is flickering?

Sometimes it’s obvious, but often flicker is only detected through symptoms among staff or through measuring equipment.

Which lights flicker the most?

Older fluorescent tubes and low-quality LED lamps without proper drivers are most likely to flicker.

How can I avoid flicker?

Choose high-quality lamps with flicker-free technology and ensure the driver is compatible with the fixture.

Can flickering lights affect productivity?

Yes, flicker can impair well-being, reduce focus, and negatively impact work performance over time.