Whenever there’s a Wi-Fi connectivity issue, it’s common to suspect that other devices are causing interference. However, there’s another element in your home that can contribute to poor Wi-Fi performance, and it’s not your typical small appliances or microwaves. Surprisingly, the culprit for connectivity problems could be the type of lighting you have in your home.
While various factors can lead to a poor Wi-Fi connection, not many people are aware that the lights in their home can have a significant impact on their wireless network.
It’s crucial to understand which types of bulbs and lights can affect Wi-Fi so that you can identify and address any issues causing your connection to falter.
Here are some lights and bulbs that can potentially interfere with your Wi-Fi:
LED Lights: Low-quality LED lights or bulbs can emit electromagnetic interference that disrupts your home’s Wi-Fi network. Higher-quality LED lights are less likely to cause problems, but it’s still possible.
Smart Bulbs: Light bulbs with Wi-Fi capabilities can interfere with your Wi-Fi network, as any device using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth operates in the 2.4 GHz band. If you have several smart bulbs installed at home, they might affect other device connections.
Fluorescent Tubes and Bulbs: Compact fluorescent lights emit microwave-range radiation that can interfere with your router’s wireless signal. They are especially problematic when located near the router or close to devices like computers or Smart TVs. Fluorescent tube lights also emit electromagnetic radiation that can impact Wi-Fi networks.
Halogen Bulbs: Although less common, halogen bulbs can also lead to Wi-Fi disruptions.
Be cautious about the types and quantities of lights and lighting systems you have in your home. For instance, installing numerous Christmas lights indoors can weaken your Wi-Fi signal, causing connectivity problems for your devices.
