Why Do My Lights Dim When an Appliance Turns On?

A brief change in brightness when a large load starts can happen in some homes. Frequent, severe, or newly developing dimming is more worth investigating.

Which appliance causes it?

Notice whether the dimming happens when the HVAC equipment starts, the microwave runs, the vacuum starts, a power tool is used, or another large appliance operates.

Is it one room or the whole house?

A local problem can point toward one circuit. Widespread dimming may indicate a broader electrical or utility issue.

Has it always happened?

A longstanding mild quirk is different from a sudden change. New symptoms deserve more attention.

Look for other warning signs

Call for electrical help when dimming comes with flickering, breaker trips, buzzing, a burning odor, hot outlets, or partial power loss. Find Local Electrical Help