The lights flickering when you use the vacuum is a common phenomenon in many households. This happens because vacuum cleaners, especially older or more powerful models, can draw a significant amount of electrical current when they start up or run at high power. When this sudden demand for electrical power occurs, it can cause a momentary drop in voltage in the electrical circuit.
Several factors contribute to this effect:
Voltage drop: When the vacuum cleaner motor starts, it requires a large surge of electricity to overcome the initial inertia and start spinning. This surge can briefly reduce the available voltage in the electrical circuit.
Electrical resistance: The wiring in your house has some resistance to the flow of electricity. When the vacuum draws a sudden surge of current, it encounters this resistance, leading to a temporary drop in voltage.
Shared circuitry: In some houses, multiple electrical appliances and lights are connected to the same circuit. When the vacuum cleaner draws a lot of power on a shared circuit, it can affect the voltage supplied to other devices on that circuit, causing the lights to flicker.
Low power supply: If your house has a low electrical supply or a weak circuit breaker, it might be more prone to voltage fluctuations when high-powered appliances like a vacuum cleaner are in use.
It's important to note that slight flickering of lights is generally not a cause for concern. However, if you notice significant or frequent voltage fluctuations, it might be worth having an electrician inspect your electrical system to ensure everything is functioning correctly and safely. Additionally, using a vacuum cleaner with a lower power rating or upgrading the electrical circuit can help reduce the flickering effect.