Symptoms
- Some bulbs in the chandelier stay dark while others work
- Bulbs burn out more often than expected
- Whole chandelier flickers or dims unexpectedly
Likely causes
- CommonA loose bulb in a candelabra-base socketSmaller candelabra bases can be easy to under-tighten.
- CommonUsing bulbs with a higher wattage than the fixture is rated forChandeliers often have a strict per-bulb wattage limit listed on a label.
- PossibleA failed socket within the fixtureIndividual sockets can fail while others on the same fixture keep working.
- PossibleA dimmer not properly matched to the total LED wattageMany small LED bulbs together can fall below a dimmer's minimum load.
What to do
- Check and gently tighten each bulb, since candelabra bases loosen easily.
- Confirm bulb wattage matches the fixture's label, especially if using LED equivalents.
- Replace bulbs with a consistent, quality dimmable LED line if you have a mix of types.
- Turn off the breaker and check any consistently dark socket for corrosion or damage.
- Test a known-good bulb in the dark socket to isolate whether it's the bulb or the socket.
- Replace a failed individual socket if accessible, or the fixture if sockets are integrated and not serviceable.
- Have an electrician check the dimmer's compatibility if the whole chandelier flickers on a dimmer circuit.
Tools and parts
- Step ladder
- Non-contact voltage tester
Candelabra base LED bulbsSearch: “candelabra base dimmable LED bulb”
When to call a pro
Call an electrician if a socket inside the fixture needs replacing and it's not a simple swap, or the dimmer needs upgrading.
Safety
Use caution
Turn off the breaker before inspecting individual sockets inside the fixture.