---
title: "What Is Dimming lights? Electrical Glossary | Daniel Electric"
description: "Dimming lights get dimmer, often for a moment, when a large appliance starts or when a connection or supply problem lowers the voltage."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/dimming-lights
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Dimming lights

Dimming lights get dimmer, often for a moment, when a large appliance starts or when a connection or supply problem lowers the voltage.

A brief dim when an air conditioner or dryer starts can be normal in some homes, because large motors draw a lot of current as they start. Lights that dim often, or stay dim, are different. That can point to an [overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload), a loose connection or a [brownout](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/brownout) on the utility side.

NFPA lists flickering or dimming lights among signs of an electrical problem. Do not open panels or boxes to look. Call a licensed electrician, and see [electrical warning signs](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/guides/electrical-warning-signs). If every home on the street dims, report it to your utility.

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Flickering lights](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/flickering-lights)
-   [Overload](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/overload)
-   [Brownout](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/brownout)
-   [Voltage drop](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/voltage-drop)

## Sources

1.  [NFPA: Electrical Home Fire Safety](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/electrical-safety-in-the-home)
2.  [Electrical Safety Foundation International: Electrical Warning Signs](https://www.esfi.org/electrical-warning-signs-video-short/)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

[Call (817) 481-8606](tel:+1-817-481-8606)[Get a quote](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact)

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