How To Use Task Lighting Effectively
Task lighting brightens your work and reduces eye strain. Here's how DIYers can make best use of it in the garage and workshop.
Is Solid-State Electricity the Future of Home Electricity?
One of the largest infrastructures on the planet might be getting an overhaul. Here's how solid-state electricity could impact your...
Do You Need a Home Battery Backup System?
If the power goes out or your electric bill rises, a backup battery system be a lifesaver. Here's how to...
Why Does Hydrogen Come in Different Colors?
Hydrogen is a colorless gas, so why does it come in different colors? Surprisingly, the colors refer to the methods...
How to Solder Wires
Here's is how to solder wires to achieve a durable and long-lasting connection.
Homeowner’s Guide to Electrical Grounding and How It Works
You know electrical grounding is important. What does it actually do?
How To Test GFCI Outlets
GFCIs save lives. Learn how to test your GFCIs two ways, with these instructions.
How to Use a Surge Protector for Electronic Devices
Learn how to use surge protectors for any electronic device, whether it's a digital clock, a computer, a dishwasher or...
Drawing Your Own Electrical Plans
Electrical plans are a roadmap to project success. And, yes — you can draw your own! Here's what you need...
What You Need to Know About Romex Wiring
Wondering where to use Romex cable in your home? How about where you can't? We've got the details below.
What To Know About Electrical Transformer Boxes In Your Yard
Those green metal boxes hiding in plain sight are a lot more important (and interesting!) than you might think.
What Is Electrical Shock and How Can I Prevent It?
Electrical shock injures thousands of people every year. Before doing any of your own electrical work, take precautions and know...
How an Electrical System Works
If your home is grid-connected, your electric power comes from far away. Here's how it gets from the generator to...
15 Amp vs. 20 Amp Outlets: What’s the Difference?
Outlets and receptacles. What's the difference? Which one goes where? Our expert is here to clear up the confusion.
Expert-Approved Tips for Wiring a Subpanel
When you run out of space in your service panel, a subpanel is the best solution. Use these tips from...
What’s the Difference Between a Surge Protector and a Power Strip?
Surge protectors and power strips look alike, but they have different functions. Here's how to tell what's what.
Where Is a Tamper Resistant Receptacle Outlet Required?
Here's how you can easily protect small children, and everyone else, from electrical shocks, burns or electrocution.
Homeowner’s Guide to an AC Fuse Box
Fuse boxes were the precursors to modern circuit breaker panels and are largely obsolete. But some large appliances are still...
Testing a Circuit Breaker Panel for 240-Volt Electrical Service
Before you add a 240-volt appliance, you need to make sure you've got what it takes.
What To Know About Smart Home Wiring
Smart home wiring keeps your smart devices in touch with your home's data center, and it feeds data-hungry appliances the...
Homeowner’s Guide to Smart Electrical Panels
A fully electrified home needs an intelligent control center to manage energy usage and maximize savings. A smart panel can...
What to Know About Electrical Conduit Wiring
There may be times when you need to install some electrical conduit as part of your project. The following tips...
What Is a Disconnect Switch (aka Safety Switch) and Why They Are Important
It's a good bet your home's electrical system has one or more disconnect switches. Here's what they are, what they...
A Guide for Soldering Electronics
Got an appliance that's stopped working, or want to build something electronic? Learning how to solder electronics is an essential...
What Is Overcurrent Protection?
Overcurrent protection is one of the most important concepts in electrical safety. This is what you need to know.
How To Put Out an Electrical Fire
Learn how to extinguish an electrical fire — but know your limits and stay safe.
Where Is a GFCI Protected Outlet Required?
Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection is an affordable way of safeguarding your loved ones from lethal electrical shock hazards.
8 Ideas for Covering an Electrical Panel
Don't let an ugly gray metal electrical panel ruin your decor! Check out these creative solutions for covering one in...
