A lot of people in San Antonio, TX, have noticed that their lights flicker when their HVAC turns on. Why does this happen? Is it a sign that you need to fix your HVAC or your home’s electrical system? In this post, we answer all these questions.
Why Do My Lights Flicker When My HVAC Turns On?
As you probably know, an HVAC system uses a lot of power. In fact, statistics show that more than half of energy use in American homes is for heating and air conditioning.
The reason the lights in your house flicker for a couple of seconds when your HVAC turns on is that your home’s electrical system is adjusting to provide the HVAC with the power it needs to run.
This is normal and it’s not an indication that your HVAC or your electrical system may need to be repaired.
However, as we’ll see in the next section, there are some cases when you should pay close attention if you notice changes in light intensity while your HVAC is running,
What If It’s More Than a Quick Flicker?
If your lights flicker momentarily when your HVAC turns on, that can be chalked up to a normal fluctuation in power.
However, if your lights continue to flicker or dim noticeably for an extended period of time, then the cause may be an issue with your HVAC system or your home’s electrical wiring.
Some common causes of electrical problems with your HVAC include:
- Deteriorated or loose wires
- Damaged or old capacitors
- Bad electrical connections
- Compressor issues
Remember that unless you have professional training, you should stick to basic maintenance and avoid fixing your HVAC yourself, especially when it comes to its electrical components.
If your lights flicker for more than a couple of seconds or light intensity continues to drop after you have started your HVAC, then you need to call an HVAC professional. If that’s the case, contact Zero Heating AC and refrigeration: we’ll be happy to offer assistance and help you keep your home cool and comfortable.
Zero Heating AC and Refrigeration: the Best In San Antonio, TX
Whether you need to repair or replace your AC unit, Zero Heating AC and refrigeration and Refrigeration is your best option in San Antonio, Texas.
Contact us today using our website, by telephone (210-900-0824), or through our social media accounts on Facebook and Twitter and to schedule a tune-up or to get a free estimate. We also offer financing plans for your convenience.