There is nothing more annoying than dealing with flickering light fixtures or one that won’t even light up at all. These are all common household issues that can affect the overall quality of life in your home. 

But the good news is that there are in fact ways that you can use to help identify these problems before they happen. After all, the sooner you can identify these issues, the sooner you will be able to fix them. 

If you are making plans to install ceiling light fixture units, the following diagnosis tips should be at your fingertips.

“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it."– Edith Wharton

Check If the Bulb is Burned Out 

There are many reasons why a light bulb would fail to light up. But in most cases, it could be simply because the bulb is burned out. So, the first thing would be to check on the bulb. 

So, remove the bulb and try it out on another outlet. If it lights up, it means that the issue is with the outlet. But if it fails, then you can consider light fixture replacement at that point.

Check the Power Source 

It is also important to check the power source leading to a given light fixture to be sure it is in good condition. Now, wiring issues are very rare. 

But if you have old wiring at home or perhaps you have had incidents of wiring failures, you can check them to be sure everything is okay.

Assess the Voltage

Modern writing systems are fitted with capacitors and voltage regulating devices designed to protect key appliances from voltage surges. 

Typically, lights will need the lowest amount of voltage to work well. But there are also cases where these voltage regulating devices may fail. 

This can have severe damage to the light fixtures that you are using. So, even before you do chandelier installation or replace the lights, make sure the voltage is back to normal.

Check the Switch 

This tip is often designed when you are dealing with flickering lights. Lights will normally flicker if the switch connection is lost. There could of course be other factors at play but this is typically the most common one. 

So, open the switch if you can, check the wires, and ensure that everything is tightly fitted into place. However, only do this if you are experienced and after shutting off your home’s main breaker.

Safety Tips When Troubleshooting Lighting Fixtures 

The job of troubleshooting lighting fixtures may seem simple enough, but do not forget that you are dealing with electricity here. As such, it is very important to undertake all the measures needed to ensure you are safe. 

  • The first and the most important thing is to make sure the main switch is off. Never work on any electricity job with a live wire. 
  • Also, ensure that you have the proper equipment. Screw drives are some of the tools you will need to diagnose and fix issues with your light fixtures. 
  • Finally, if you are not sure of anything, leave it. Not everyone is an expert in wiring a light fixture and there are some components of the wiring system that could be very difficult to deal with. So, call in an expert to be on the safe side.

When to Replace Lights?

Most problems with light fixtures can be fixed very fast with minimal tools and expertise. But there are certainly serious issues that may require a more holistic approach. For instance, if light bulbs have failed to light up for ages, you need to get that fixture checked. 

Also, pay close attention to any sparks that may be coming from those lights. Sparks often mean that there is an overload on the fixture and this creates a huge fire hazard. 

You may also want to update your wiring. Yes, rewiring a ceiling light can lead to expenses you were not looking for, but stronger wiring is the safest option to run light fixtures without any issues.

A local electrician can help you rewire or repair a light fixture and make sure everything is safe and working correctly.


MORE FROM HOMEYOU

Your Ultimate Guide To The Perfect Bathroom Vanity Lighting
Are Smart Bulbs the Answer to Your Sleep Problems?
How To Light Your Kitchen Perfectly

Join the conversation