LED lighting has revolutionized both indoor and outdoor illumination, thanks to its energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatile design. However, a common issue that can affect user experience is flickering, a bothersome phenomenon that can negatively impact visual comfort and overall well-being.
In this article, we will explore the causes of LED light flicker and the best solutions to eliminate it.
What is LED Light Flicker?
Flicker is the rapid and cyclic variation in the luminous flux of an LED source. There are two main types:
Visible flicker: Perceptible to the human eye, it can cause eye strain and discomfort.
Imperceptible flicker: Not directly detectable, but potentially harmful to health, leading to headaches, fatigue, and even neurological disorders.
Main Causes of Flickering
Several factors can contribute to LED light flicker:
Unstable power supply: Voltage fluctuations can cause light oscillations.
Low-quality LED driver: If the driver is not properly designed, it fails to stabilize the current, resulting in flickering.
Incompatible dimming: Some dimmers are not suitable for LEDs, causing flicker effects.
Current modulation frequency: If the current supplied to LEDs is not sufficiently filtered, imperceptible but harmful flicker may occur.
Low-quality LEDs: Non-certified or poorly designed components are more likely to experience flickering issues.
How to measure Flicker
Flicker is monitored using a professional device called a flickermeter, which detects and records changes in the intensity of light emitted by an electrical fixture. This tool provides specific data on the amplitude and frequency of light variations, measured as a flicker percentage.
It is not recommended to rely on unprofessional and unreliable methods, such as using smartphones or cameras, to detect flicker. These devices are not designed to accurately measure light variations and may provide misleading results.
For an accurate assessment of flicker, it is always advisable to consult a lighting expert who can conduct measurements with appropriate instruments and suggest the best solutions
How to remove Flicker
To prevent flickering and ensure comfortable lighting, it is essential to choose high-quality solutions:
Select high-quality LED drivers: A good driver stabilizes the current, eliminating unwanted light variations.
Use compatible dimmers: Choosing dimmers specifically designed for LEDs is crucial.
Opt for lighting fixtures with a high flicker frequency: A frequency above 90 Hz significantly reduces the risk of visible flickering.
Avoid connecting devices with variable electrical loads to the same circuit as LED lights: Appliances with irregular power consumption can affect voltage stability and cause flickering.
Choose certified LEDs: Products that meet international standards offer greater reliability and stability.
Check the electrical installation: A well-designed system with stable voltage minimizes the risk of flickering.
Finally, we always recommend consulting a qualified electrician for a thorough system inspection to identify any issues that may cause flicker.
Before any installation, avoid DIY solutions: relying on a lighting expert ensures the best choices and guarantees a secure and stable setup.
Investing in high-quality LED lighting is one of the key measures to prevent flickering issues. 9010 has always been committed to designing and manufacturing flicker-free LED solutions, providing innovative and safe components for every need. All 9010 lighting products comply with industry standards and are compatible with reliable drivers and dimmable systems that support the offered LED solutions.