Home Automation - Electrical surges

I have recently upgraded a electrical system in a 35 yr old house I purchased to 200A. However I have noticed that a problem still persists. When my wife runs a hair dryer, microwave and other types of appliances, the lights increase in intensity. It applies even if the outlet is on a separate circuit. Does anyone know what could cause this and how to correct it.
Thanks
John

hello ttower,
sounds like a loose connection. could be in panel, meter, or even in incomeing line. check the connections in the panel, if all is tight call your electric company and have them come out and check the other connections.

Hi. I agree with sprky. Sounds like a loose nuetral connection somewhere in the service. As the load on the nuetral increases, the loose connection begins to fail. Current then backfeeds across the nuetral bar in the main panel to the other hot leg through the other circuits in the panel. That is why lights on the other circuits are affected. They are responding to an elevated voltage level. Without the nuetral everything in your panel becomes 240 volt through the common connection to the nuetral bar.

I suggest check the main panel first. Look for discoloration of the lug at the nuetral connection due to heat/loose connection. Re-torque as necessary. If that doesn't solve it I'd think it's probably in the meter base.
Call the power company. My experience is they may come out and help check it out if they're aware of your problem. Otherwise get a pro or whatever help you need. This would not be something you'd want to let go.

Pete