Flickering lightbulb

Is there any other switch controling this lamp, particulary any automatic switch such as a PIR or timer?

Many automatic switches use the circuit through the bulb as the return path for the small amount of power the use. Some CFLs can see this and fire just as you describe. IMHO it's not dangerous per se but the repeated firing of the CFL I suspect will considerably shorten it's life.

Hi, 2 possibilities:

1. its on a PIR detector, CFLs and PIRs have this problem sometimes
2. your switch or wiring is leaking or arcing, in which case it needs attention before anything bad happens.

Regards, NT

A third possibility is that some other source of radiation is lighting it up. Think radio transmitters, microwave ovens, televisions etc.

To discount it, switch the lighting circuit off at the consumer unit. If it still flashes, the flash energy is not coming down via the electrical system.

Christian.

This one is easy..... the switch is in the neutral not the live!

Its is wiring error which should be corrected ASAP!

I have a fluorescent tube which glows mysteriously when turned off - probably because the switch is in the neutral cable.

This was my first thought also, especially if it is a regular flash every 10 seconds. Does he live next to an airport or military installation? Could also be taxi firm, mobile phoe mast, etc etc although only a radar should give a consistant flash every few seconds.

Simon

Or 3. Try measuring the voltage on the switched live - we've had quite a few with induced voltages from the loop circuit up to 60v - more than enough to cause a low energy lamp to try and fire when warm. Regards, Richard

Or 4. Try a different light bulb. I have a set of very cheap ones which show this behaviour. (Very annoying in the bedroom!)

I bought a different brand and they don't exhibit the flickering.

Colin

Can you please explain how that could cause the problem ?