How To Fix a Flickering Light

Check the lightbulb. A flickering light could simply be the result of a loose bulb, so start by turning it off and tightening the bulb.

See if your circuit is overloaded. If so, plug the light into another outlet.

Unplug the light to make sure the bulb is touching the metal contact tab at the bottom of the light socket. Remove the bulb — you’ll see the tab in the middle of the socket that should make electrical contact with the lightbulb.

Take a flat-head screwdriver and slip it under the tab. Raise the tab about an eighth of an inch from the bottom of the socket, so it will meet the bulb when the bulb is screwed back in.

Make sure the socket and tab are clean, and scrape away any rust. Put the bulb back in and test it.

If the light still flickers, check the cord carefully for frays. If you find one, you’ll need to rewire the light by removing the damaged cord, threading a new one in its place, and stripping its end so you can wrap the exposed wires around the screws in the socket.

If the light continues to flicker, a worn out switch or socket could be the problem, in which case you should call an electrician.