Power tools such as table saw, miter saw and jigsaw drive too much current at start ups. Requirement of current may also increase whenever tools need to apply more force. It generally creates problems for other items on the same circuit like flickering of lamps and massive voltage drop for a few moments. So, why does a table saw and other power tools make lights dim or flicker?

It often happens due to undersized cables or resistive conductors being used. sometimes it can also happen because of applied voltage deficiency. motor malfunctions and wrong capacitors can also lead to make the light dim or flickering.

Table saw keeps tripping breaker? Check this article!

Why Does A Table Saw Make Light Flicker?

Following are some key factors which invoke regarding this!

1. Undersized Cables/Voltage Drop

If your table saw is using a power cable which is not compatible to it’s required current and voltage. It will certainly create problems for other appliances on the same circuit as smaller cables sizes or low gauge conductors possess high resistance for current which is passing through it. It will also increase the temperature of the conductor and eventually cause voltage drop.

2. Faulty Capacitors

Capacitors are used to provide a good magnetic field which is required to start up the motor at higher initial torque. If the capacitor attached to the motor of your table saw is weak, it will be a burden to your motor by consuming all the amperage and making the motor difficult to work.

3. Too Much Load On A Circuit

Different types of load such as inductive and non inductive load being used over the same circuit can make resistance higher. If there is something wrong at any point of such circuit, this resistance may increase at an even higher level and be a reason for voltage drop to take place.

Voltage drop is the main reason why table saws make the lights dim or flicker. Following are a few steps that you can take to tackle the voltage drop on a circuit which is running a table saw.

How Do I Stop Lights From Flickering While Using Table Saw?

1. Appropriate Cable

According to ohm’s law, this is concluded that thin cables are very much resistive .Different types of cables are used for different types of loads. Always select the cable which meets the requirement to your load. As the table saw is a heavy machine, always go for thicker cables and keep the length as short as possible so that it can help you avoid voltage drop.

How to choose correct cables for your table saw?

You should always keep in mind the natural behaviour of your table saw while selecting a power cable for it as table saws come with a heavy electrical motor which drives very high currents at start up and some time in full flow while it is necessary to apply some extra effort to cut a hard piece of wood.

The conductor you are looking for should definitely be able to handle these higher currents. Always look for thicker gauge wires for your table saws as thicker conductors carry very small resistance and are considered to be strong for bearing heat.

If you don’t like to dig that deep into this matter there are some standard cable ratings made for certain current ratings. These ratings are concluded after good research of renounced electricians from around the world and are worth to be considered when you are choosing a cable for your desired loads.

2. Capacitors

Choose capacitor according to the rating of motor, mentioned on the table saw’s manual. Low voltage applied may weaken the capacitor by time. Always have a check on the capacitor and replace it if needed because running a faulty capacitor can use the amperes of higher quantity which will make the motor lagy.

3. Dedicated Circuit

Different types of loads on a single circuit can cause many inconveniences like voltage drop and dim light. Your heavier load may not be able to work properly when a single circuit is divided among heavy and light rated loads. It is best to divide circuits in two parts especially for inductive loads, as it can spare many troubles like overload and it can also reduce amperage over cables. this will  prevent conductors from overheating.

Conclusion

No doubt light flickering is a harmless looking thing but it is not meant to be ignored as a whole. It’s main reason is something is wrong with your electrical wiring, a current leakage or something else. It is a serious problem that can tend your circuit to catch fire. Always use healthier conductors and make strong joints whenever needed as it can help you to avoid flickering lights.