A flickering TV screen is frustrating, but most causes are easy to fix at home. Here’s how to troubleshoot the problem in minutes.
Quick Fixes to Try First
Check your cables. Loose or damaged HDMI, power, or coaxial cables are the most common culprits. Unplug each cable, inspect for damage, and reconnect firmly. Try a different HDMI port or replace old cables.
Power cycle your TV. Unplug the TV from the wall outlet, wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This clears temporary glitches in the TV’s software.
Test with different content. Switch between inputs (cable box, streaming device, antenna) to see if the flicker persists. If only one source flickers, the problem is with that device, not your TV.
Advanced Solutions
Adjust picture settings. Turn off energy-saving modes, motion smoothing, or ambient light sensors in your TV’s picture menu. These features can cause flickering.
Update your TV’s firmware. Check the manufacturer’s website or your TV’s settings menu for software updates. Outdated firmware can cause display issues.
Check for electrical interference. Unplug nearby devices like soundbars, routers, or fluorescent lights. Electromagnetic interference can affect your TV’s display.
When to Call a Professional
If flickering continues after trying these fixes, your TV may have a hardware problem like a failing backlight, power supply board, or T-con board. Contact the manufacturer if your TV is under warranty, or consult a qualified repair technician.
Most flickering issues resolve with simple cable checks or power cycles, saving you time and money on unnecessary repairs.
