Why Do My Lights Flicker When the Washer or Microwave Runs?

Have you ever noticed your lights dim or flicker when your washer starts a spin cycle or your microwave powers on? While it may seem like a minor annoyance, it can be a symptom of deeper electrical or appliance issues. At Santa Cruz Appliance Repair, we often get asked about this common concern, and the good news is: you’re not imagining things.

In this blog, we’ll break down what’s really going on when your lights flicker, when it’s normal, and when it’s time to call a professional.

Understanding the Electrical Load

Large appliances like washers, dryers, microwaves, and dishwashers draw a significant amount of power, especially when cycling on. When they activate, they create a sudden demand for electricity that can momentarily divert power away from your home’s lighting circuits.

This is especially common in older homes or homes with outdated wiring or overloaded circuits.

Appliances most likely to cause flickering lights include:

• Washers and dryers

• Microwaves

• Refrigerators (especially during compressor startup)

• Dishwashers

• Air conditioners

  
  

When Is Light Flickering Considered Normal?

A brief, single flicker or dimming when an appliance powers on can be normal. This usually happens because the appliance is drawing power quickly, and your system is momentarily compensating.

Examples of normal flickering:

• Lights dim for half a second when a washer hits its spin cycle

• Lights flicker briefly when the microwave starts

  
  

If this only happens occasionally and the lights return to normal immediately, your system is likely functioning as designed.

When Flickering Is a Warning Sign

Persistent or severe flickering is not something to ignore. It can point to larger issues that affect both your appliances and overall home safety.

Warning signs include:

• Lights dim dramatically or stay dim while appliance runs

• Flickering across multiple rooms

• Buzzing from outlets or breaker panel

• Frequent tripped breakers

  
  

These may indicate problems such as:

• Overloaded circuits

• Loose or aging wiring

• Undersized electrical panel

• Appliance motor failure or internal short

  
  

If you notice any of these signs, it's time to consult a licensed electrician and a repair professional to assess your system.

Can the Appliance Be the Problem?

Yes—in some cases, the issue isn’t your wiring, but the appliance itself. A failing motor, capacitor, or internal short in a major appliance can cause power surges that lead to flickering.

At Santa Cruz Appliance Repair, we can inspect your washer, dryer, microwave, or refrigerator to determine if the appliance is straining your electrical system or behaving abnormally. Catching and repairing a failing component early can prevent further damage.

How to Protect Your Home and Appliances

Here are a few steps you can take to minimize risk:

• Avoid running multiple high-power appliances at the same time

• Have an electrician check for outdated or undersized wiring

• Install dedicated circuits for large appliances

• Use surge protectors for sensitive electronics

• Schedule regular appliance maintenance to catch worn parts before they fail

  
  

Local Support You Can Count On

Living in Santa Cruz means balancing energy demands with coastal wear-and-tear on your home systems. If you’re experiencing appliance-related flickering, we’re here to help. Our local techs are trained to assess both performance issues and signs of electrical strain in your appliances.

We also offer new and reconditioned appliances with updated energy-efficiency and performance standards—ideal for reducing strain on your electrical system.

Final Thoughts

Not all flickering is a red flag, but it should never be ignored entirely. Whether it's your washer pulling too much power or a deeper issue, let Santa Cruz Appliance Repair give you peace of mind with a proper diagnosis.

Give us a call today, or stop by our shop at 250 Potrero St. Suite B for honest answers and expert help.