Why Your RV Lights Flicker and What to Do About It

RV lights are essential for safety and comfort, but what happens when they start flickering? A flickering light in your RV can be more than just annoying; it can indicate a more serious electrical issue. Let’s explore the common causes of RV light flickering and what you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

Common Causes of Flickering RV Lights

• Loose Connections: This is the most frequent culprit. RVs endure a lot of vibration on the road. These vibrations can loosen wire connections at the light fixture, the switch, or within the RV’s electrical panel.
• Voltage Fluctuations: Issues with your RV’s battery, converter, or shore power connection can cause voltage fluctuations, leading to flickering.
• Faulty Light Fixture: Sometimes, the light fixture itself is the problem. A worn-out bulb socket or a faulty internal component can cause the light to flicker.
• Grounding Issues: Poor grounding can disrupt the electrical circuit and cause erratic behavior in your lights.
• Overloaded Circuit: If you’re running too many appliances on the same circuit, it can overload the system and cause lights to flicker as the voltage drops.

Troubleshooting Flickering RV Lights

1. Check the Bulb: Start with the simplest solution. Replace the bulb with a new one to rule out a faulty bulb.
2. Inspect Connections: Carefully examine all wiring connections associated with the flickering light. Tighten any loose screws or connectors. Remember to disconnect from power before doing this.
3. Test the Voltage: Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the light fixture. It should be within the expected range (typically 12V DC for most RV lights). If the voltage is erratic, investigate your RV’s battery, converter, and shore power connections.
4. Isolate the Circuit: Try turning off other appliances on the same circuit to see if it resolves the flickering. If it does, you may need to redistribute the load across different circuits.
5. Inspect the Light Fixture: If the problem persists, inspect the light fixture itself for any signs of damage or corrosion.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your RV lights are still flickering, it’s time to consult a qualified RV technician. Electrical problems can be dangerous if not handled properly.

Don’t let flickering lights ruin your RV experience. If you’re in need of expert assistance, Call Roadwise Travel Today. Our mobile RV repair technicians are ready to diagnose and fix any electrical issues, getting you back on the road safely and quickly!