Flickering lights at a specific time of the day, such as around 5:00 pm, could be caused by a few different factors. Here are some possible explanations:
High Demand Periods: During peak hours, typically in the early evening when people return home from work, there is often a higher demand for electricity in residential areas. The increased load on the power grid may lead to voltage fluctuations, which can cause lights to flicker.
Neighborhood or Area Issues: If multiple houses in your neighborhood or area are drawing a significant amount of power simultaneously, it can affect the overall voltage stability in the local grid, resulting in flickering lights.
Appliance Use: While you mentioned using a gas stove, other electrical appliances in your home might be contributing to the flickering lights. For example, air conditioners, heaters, washing machines, or refrigerators can draw a lot of power when they start up, causing temporary voltage drops and flickering.
Loose Electrical Connections: Loose electrical connections in your home's wiring can cause fluctuations in power delivery, leading to flickering lights. This issue may become more noticeable during specific times if something in your home or a nearby electrical circuit becomes active.
Utility Company Maintenance: Sometimes, utility companies perform maintenance or repair work on the power lines during specific hours. This can temporarily affect the power supply and cause flickering lights.
Issues with the Power Grid: There may be issues with the larger power grid or the electrical infrastructure in your area that cause intermittent voltage drops, leading to flickering lights.
To troubleshoot and pinpoint the exact cause of the flickering lights, consider the following steps:
- Check with your neighbors to see if they are experiencing similar issues. If they are, it might be a problem with the local power grid, and you should report it to your utility company.
- Inspect your home's electrical connections and outlets to ensure they are secure and not loose.
- If the problem persists or worsens, consider consulting with a licensed electrician to perform a thorough electrical inspection of your home.
Regardless of the cause, if you ever notice any significant and persistent issues with your electrical system, it is essential to address them promptly to avoid potential safety hazards.