Work outward: bulb, then bulb tightness, then socket contact tab, then switch, then cord and plug, then outlet. If the flicker follows the lamp to another outlet, the fault is in the lamp; if it stays with the outlet, call an electrician.
What we see on the bench
Nearly every lamp that comes through our Thornton shop tells the same story in a different way: the object outlived its wiring. Cord insulation dries out, socket contacts flatten, switch springs weaken, and the failure shows up as flicker long before it shows up as a dead lamp. Catching it at the flicker stage keeps a repair small.
When to call a professional
Stop using any lamp that smells hot, trips a breaker, or has visible copper. If the fixture is hardwired, mounted overhead, or older than 1960, have it inspected rather than patched. We give free estimates and will tell you when a repair is not worth the money.
More guides
Ready to bring your lamp back to life?
Call for a free estimate, or send photos and we will quote by email.