Are Flickering LED Lights Dangerous? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding LED Flicker and Its Impact on Health

The LED lighting industry has advanced significantly over the past decade. Initially, the focus was primarily on improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing light output. However, with increasing concerns over human health and well-being, there has been a significant shift in recent years toward ensuring better light quality. 

One of the most pressing issues in this context is the potential harm caused by flickering LED lights. As awareness grows, the need for healthy lighting solutions that protect vision and overall health becomes more evident. How dangerous is flickering LED light, and what method can we use to address it?

1. What Is Flicker?

Flicker refers to the fluctuation of the luminous flux of an electric light source at a certain frequency. Pointing a mobile phone at a light source can often reveal a stripe distribution, which is caused by flicker.

These fluctuations occur at specific frequencies, causing the light to appear as if it is intermittently dimming and brightening. The inherent properties of the light source and the technology that powers it can cause the flicker.

2. Why Do LED Lights Flicker?

While the LED light source itself does not inherently produce flicker. The flickering effect is usually a result of the driver, which converts AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current).

The constant voltage or constant current power supply is responsible for ensuring that the LED operates consistently. However, the quality of the drivers is different. Lower-quality or cost-effective LED drivers may not provide a steady and smooth power output. This results in visible flicker.

In some cases, manufacturers use cheaper, less sophisticated driver circuits to save on production costs. These circuits can introduce noticeable stroboscopic effects, especially at certain brightness levels. Additionally, LEDs that use dimming features may experience more pronounced flicker, particularly when dimmed to lower levels. At low brightness, the LED's power supply may struggle to maintain a constant output, amplifying the flicker.

Another factor contributing to flicker is mismatched or poor-quality LED components. Including underpowered chips (less than 1 watt) or not aligned with the advertised wattage. This mismatch can cause erratic behaviour in the power driver, which results in flickering.

3. What Are the Potential Dangers to Humans If Using Flickering LED Lights?

The flickering of LED lights may appear uninfluential at first glance. Exposure to such lighting for a long time can have significant health and safety implications. The human eye is sensitive to light fluctuations. And even though some people may not consciously notice flicker, their bodies can still react to it.

Visible Flicker and Its Impact

Most individuals can detect flicker when the light source fluctuates at a frequency of less than 80Hz, which is referred to as visible flicker.

In such cases, the flickering is noticeable and can cause discomfort or even health problems. Flickering light sources at this frequency can create various visual disturbances, including eye strain, headaches, and migraines. These symptoms can be especially problematic for people who spend long hours under artificial lighting. Such as office workers, students, or individuals who work in environments with poor lighting conditions.

Flicker effects are not limited to the visible range, however. At higher frequencies (above 80Hz), the human eye becomes less sensitive to flicker at higher frequencies. But this does not mean that the effects are eliminated.

Research indicates that flicker can still impact visual efficiency and cause issues like blurred vision, eye fatigue, and reduced focus. The impact of flicker may be up to 500Hz. For some individuals, this can result in further discomfort or more severe health consequences.

Neurological and Psychological Risks

In addition to its visual impact, flickering LED lights can affect the brain and nervous system. Certain individuals are particularly vulnerable to photosensitive epilepsy, a condition in which flickering or strobing lights can trigger seizures. Flickering can also contribute to emotional irritability, anxiety, and stress, leading to a decline in overall well-being.

Even those without a medical condition may experience symptoms of anxiety, fatigue, and reduced concentration when exposed to flickering light for extended periods. Addressing the problem is essential to ensure a safe and healthy lighting environment.

4. How Can We Detect Flickering LED Lights in Everyday Life?

In many cases, people may not immediately notice the flickering of LED lights, especially if the frequency is above 80Hz. However, there are simple ways to detect whether your lights are flickering.

One of the most straightforward methods to achieve this is by utilizing the camera on a smartphone. Modern smartphones have a high refresh rate.

By pointing the camera at a suspected flickering light, you may notice horizontal lines or visible strobing on the screen. These stripes indicate flickering light. While this method is not highly accurate for precise measurements, it can help you detect basic issues with your lighting.

A more thorough and professional analysis needs specialized equipment such as a flicker meter or photodetector. These devices can accurately measure the frequency and intensity of flicker, providing a more precise diagnosis of the lighting's performance. In professional settings or when dealing with large-scale installations, it is advisable to have proper testing done to ensure that the lighting meets health and safety standards.

5. How Can We Avoid Flickering LED Lights?

The best way to avoid flickering LED lights is to choose high-quality, reputable lighting products from established manufacturers. Tangtang Lighting is one of your best choices.

Here are some practical steps you can take to avoid flickering LED lights:

Choose Quality Brands: Select LED products from trusted manufacturers that use quality components and drivers. They can minimize flicker and provide stable lighting output.

Check Certifications: When buying LED lights, ensure they come with appropriate certifications. In some regions, such as China, the CQC provides certifications for lighting products. Ask the manufacturer or retailer for test reports that confirm the flicker-free performance of the product.

Test Before Use: If you're unsure about the quality of an LED light, use your phone camera to test for visible flicker. While not a definitive test, this can help identify potential problems early.

Avoid Low-Cost, Low-Quality Products: While cheap LED lights may seem like an attractive option. They often have substandard drivers or poorly designed components that can cause flickering.

Consider Non-Dimmable LEDs: If you do not need dimming features, consider using non-dimmable LED lights.

Professional Testing: For businesses, schools, or workplaces where lighting quality is critical, consider hiring a professional to perform flicker tests. To ensure that all lighting complies with health and safety standards.