Lighting
Lights out, flickering, downlights, dimmers and LEDs.
A single light not working
One light fitting is dead while the rest of the lights on the circuit work fine — points at the lamp, the fitting, or the switch for that point rather than the whole circuit.
Lights flickering
One or more lights flicker — constantly, intermittently, or when other appliances run. Common with LEDs and dimmers, but can also signal a loose connection.
Downlights cutting out then coming back
Downlights switch off after a while then come back once cooled — classic thermal cut-out behaviour, usually from heat build-up around the fitting or driver.
Dimmer buzzing or LEDs not dimming smoothly
A dimmer buzzes, the LEDs flicker/strobe at low levels, won't go very low, or some lamps glow when 'off' — typically an LED/dimmer compatibility issue.
Fluorescent light not starting or flickering
A fluorescent tube won't strike, flickers, or glows only at the ends — common in older garages, laundries, and sheds.
All lights in one area out (others fine)
Every light in one part of the house is dead while power points and other lighting still work — points at that lighting circuit's protective device or a shared fault.
LED lights glowing faintly when switched off
LED lamps glow dimly or pulse even after the switch is off — unsettling but usually a small leakage/induced-voltage effect rather than a dangerous fault.
Motion-sensor light not working correctly
A sensor (PIR) light won't come on, stays on permanently, or triggers at the wrong times — common on eaves, garages, and entries.
Two-way light switch — works from one switch but not the other
A stair, hallway or bedroom light on two-way switching only behaves from one position — the other switch does nothing, or the light only works with the switches in certain combinations. Classic after a switch has been replaced.
Light bulbs keep blowing in the same fitting
One fitting eats lamps — sometimes weekly — while the rest of the house is fine. The lamp isn't the problem; something about that fitting or its supply is.
LED batten / panel flickering or strobing
An LED batten or panel (garage, office, retail) flickers, strobes, or won't switch off cleanly — common with cheaper fittings, sensors, or shared neutrals.
High-bay or floodlight not working / cutting out
A high-bay (warehouse) or floodlight is out or cuts out after warming up — pointing at the driver, heat, supply, or a daylight/photocell control.
Lighting circuit trips its breaker
The breaker (or RCBO) feeding a lighting circuit trips — either the moment it's switched on, or after the lights have been on a while. Resetting holds for a bit or trips straight back.
Light switch warm, buzzing or crackling
A switch plate feels warm to touch, buzzes, or crackles when operated. Lights may flicker as you toggle it, and there can be a faint hot-plastic smell.