Why does the energy-saving lamp flash when the light is off and how to solve the problem
More and more housewives prefer various energy-saving options instead of classic incandescent lamps. Because of this, the question often arises why the energy-saving lamp flashes when the light is off.
A flashing light not only distracts, but also serves much less, so it is advisable to resolve this issue as soon as possible. Fixing a problem is often quite easy, all you need to do is know what caused it.
It is possible that the reason is in the lamp itself. In the event of a malfunction, it may well blink, however, most often the reasons for such a problem are somewhat different. We will talk about them below.
The backlight on the switch is the main reason why the energy-saving lamp flashes when the light is off
It looks like this. With a closed circuit, the current flows to the lamp, due to which it glows. After disconnecting the circuit, electricity is directed to the LED in the switch and the capacitor gradually builds up a charge. When the charge becomes in excess, it is directed to the lamp. It turns on, and as soon as the capacitor is discharged, it goes out and the cycle repeats again.
Many, in this case, simply refuse energy-saving lamps in favor of incandescent lamps. However, in essence, this cannot be called a complete solution to the problem. In addition to this option, you can also do the following:
- replace all illuminated switches with conventional ones;
- if it is not possible, then simply break the target responsible for the highlight;
- install two lamps, one of which will be incandescent.
The last option is the most optimal, since it does not deprive you of the indication and at the same time solves the issue of blinking. In order to save energy, you can install incandescent lamp minimum power, and leave the main light load at energy-saving.
Blinking due to wiring errors
Also, the reason why the energy-saving lamp flashes when the light is off can be a trivial mistake when installing lighting. This happens if, when switching off, there is a gap not in phase, but in zero. This can be checked using appropriate electrical measuring instruments.
If you have minimal wiring skills, you can easily fix the problem yourself. It is enough to swap the wires in a particular switch (if the problem is only in one room) or in the dashboard (if the lamps are blinking throughout the house). In this case, be sure to observe safety precautions.
If you do not have sufficient skills, it will be safer and more effective to call the master. He will do the job quickly and efficiently, and you definitely will not get an electric shock.
To work with electrical wiring, you must have the entire set of necessary tools and observe safety precautions. Otherwise, there may be a danger to health, even death.
Flashing off LED lamps
In the case of LED lighting, the reason for the blinking of LED lamps is largely similar, but there are some specificities. So, such lamps are capable of blinking not only when the lighting is off, but also on. Each case has its own reasons and, accordingly, its own decision.
LED lamp blinks off quite often due to the same thing as conventional fluorescent ones. For example, it may be all about the same switches with indication. Moreover, this kind of switch can cause a constant dim glow of the lamp.
In the case of LED lamps, this issue is solved an order of magnitude easier, since not all models react to the presence of backlight. By replacing the lamp with a more expensive one, you can save yourself from unpleasant problems, since in high-quality models the capacitance of the capacitor is higher and the problem of blinking does not arise.
However, if it is not possible to purchase a more expensive lamp, the methods of solving the problem used for conventional energy-saving lamps are perfect.
When buying, pay attention to the integrity of the packaging and the lamp itself. Often the cause of blinking can be a banal device malfunction. In this case, it is sufficient to require replacement of the bulb under warranty.
Also similar to why the energy saving lamp blinks when the light is off, the LED lamp may flicker due to wiring problems. Here, the methods for solving the problem are absolutely similar and require only a number of relevant works.
An interesting reason for the flashing of LED lights is induced voltage. This can happen if multiple power cables are too close. Even if everything is mounted correctly and there is a conventional switch, there may be a small voltage in the network, which will cause the lamp to blink.
This problem can be solved only by replacing the wiring so that the induced voltage does not arise.
Flashing LED lights on
Another question is what to do if the LED lamp blinks after being turned on. Here the essence of the problem is somewhat different and most often the reason is too low voltage. This can be both a temporary problem of the general power grid, and the consequences of poor-quality wiring.
In the first case, it is enough to install a stabilizer in the house, and in the second, replacing part or all of the cables will help to solve the problem. Another solution to the problem is to replace the old transformer for halogen lamps with a specialized power supply designed to connect LED strips.
It may also be a matter of phase imbalance, which causes a voltage in the neutral cable, where it should not initially be. In this case, you need to contact a specialist to solve the problem.
In any case, it is quite possible to eliminate the problem of blinking, whether it be a fluorescent or LED lamp. Therefore, it is worth taking action as soon as you notice a problem - so you not only save the light bulb, but also check your home wiring.